The Rector of Ramallah, Fr Fadi Diab, has published a Report compiled by a Human Rights expert which speaks of the disillusionment of the dwindling Christian community there.
The Report consists largely of first-hand testimony gained by the researcher, Diane Paul, a US Human Rights expert with thirty years’ experience worldwide, gleaned from Fr Fadi’s churches in Ramallah and Bir Zeit and other churches in Bethlehem. It highlights the detrimental effects of the current situation on children and families, some of whom are now seriously considering emigrating. High levels of psychological stress were reported, based on the practical living conditions in which they find themselves. Restrictions on movement have led to loss of jobs and income. “Now, to go to Jerusalem is like a dream.”
Dismay about the robustness of the application of human rights legislation is common. There is an increased disillusionment as well as a sense of abandonment by other Christians across the world. They feel that they suffer from the fact that some Christians appear to regard what is happening as the fulfilment of some biblical prophecy, and so tolerate what would not be tolerated under any circumstances elsewhere. There is also evidence of resigned resilience. One interviewee said,
There is no option but to keep going. We have hope. We have trust in God. We have hope for a better future. If you have hope you can live.
The full Report can be accessed at https://www.friendsoftheholyland.org.uk/News/research-study-on-the-impac...
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