By David W. Virtue in Jerusalem
www.virtueonline.org
6/25/2008
Security is being stepped up in Jerusalem and at the Renaissance Hotel where
1200 pilgrims are gathered for a Global Anglican Future Conference as
several thousand homosexual activists are expected to show up for a Gay
Pride Parade Day being held here Thursday.
VirtueOnline has learned that several hundred activists are flying in from
the US and the UK in a show of strength against the theologically
conservative GAFCON pilgrims though there is no official link between the
two events. It's an odd coincidence, said a GAFCON leader.
"Tactically it positions them to make a statement in the midst of a global
orthodox event that is focusing on the redemption of people including
homosexuals," said one North American Anglican bishop.
Gay activists moved the event up from June 21 to June 26 for no apparent
reason, but observers believe this was done to embarrass the organizers and
pilgrims of GAFCON. "Clearly it is an in your face act because if the
appearance of British and American homosexual activists," said a GAFCON
spokesperson.
Security has tightened at the hotel, but it is "under control" VOL was told.
"If pilgrims see someone who they believe should not be there they are to
report it immediately to the hotel management. We don't want anyone causing
trouble," said a security agent.
Both Nigerian Archbishop Peter Akinola and Church of England Bishop Michael
Nazir-Ali (Rochester) have personal security agents standing feet away from
them at all times. Both men can only be approached by invitation only.
Last year the Gay Pride Parade drew 10,000 police who guarded the parade
because Orthodox Jews stoned them. Orthodox Jewish leaders have made it
clear they do not want such a parade in Jerusalem.
END
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