The threats posed by rockets, drones, and missiles from groups like Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis impact all 10 million Israelis—regardless of their faith, whether they’re Jewish, Christian, Muslim, or Druze. As the conflict with Iran and Hezbollah intensifies, there’s a growing recognition of the urgent need for new air raid shelters, particularly in Christian areas around Jerusalem. The Genesis 123 Foundation has launched a global initiative aimed at providing bomb shelters and resources to ensure the safety of Christian worshipers and pilgrims, kickstarting funding to support this cause.
The recent Palm Sunday incident in Jerusalem, which stopped the Latin Patriarch from holding Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, underlined the potential consequences of an attack on religious sites. Given their locations, a direct strike could lead to disastrous casualties, especially since these areas are only accessible through the narrow streets of the Old City. Such concerns are not unfounded; Iranian missile fragments have already landed in the Old City, with one instance occurring near the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and another close to Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Western Wall.
This situation also reveals a critical issue regarding the lack of air raid shelters at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and other Christian sites throughout Israel, a concern emphasized by the ongoing conflict with Iran. Since the 1990s, new buildings in Israel have been required to include air raid shelters, and while older properties have been encouraged to upgrade, many historical sites, including churches, remain without such safety measures.
Currently, Israeli guidelines restrict gatherings to fewer than 50 people unless there’s adequate protective space. This restriction means that many historic and sacred sites may have to close entirely, including the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. The absence of safe areas for worshipers complicates quick access for emergency services during potential crises in the Old City.
To address these issues, the Genesis 123 Foundation has taken steps to establish safe spaces. Founder Jonathan Feldstein expressed the foundation’s mission and achievements. “Since our inception, we’ve worked to support Israel and the Jewish people while also blessing families globally. Our efforts include advocacy for persecuted Arab Christians and condemnation of Turkey for repurposing Christian heritage sites into mosques,” he noted. He also described providing assistance during a formula shortage in the United States and emphasized solidarity with both Christian Palestinians and Christians in Israel who face the threats of extremism. This initiative represents a significant effort toward the safety of Christians and their institutions in Israel.
Feldstein stated, “Israel has a special responsibility to safeguard Christians and their groups, as we are a democracy that upholds religious freedom. Additionally, given that Jesus was an Orthodox Jew, our obligation is both vital and unwavering.” He added that while Israel should enhance its protection for Christians, the chaos of ongoing conflicts can sometimes obscure these responsibilities. Thus, this initiative is critical, urging people of all faiths to come together and contribute. Those wishing to donate can find more information through specified channels.
Feldstein concluded, “We hope that Christian communities involved with these sites will match and potentially increase their contributions, fostering greater unity and security for all Christian worshipers and pilgrims.”
