For Zion’s Sake: Why two Catholic theologians are taking a stand for Israel
Today’s silence conjures memories of past pontifical silence during the Holocaust. For Jews and Christian Zionists, Pope Pius XII's silence remains a harrowing memory and indictment.
Two Catholic theologians, Father Antoine Lévy and Dr. André Villeneuve, have launched an initiative titled "For Zion's Sake: A Catholic Appeal in Support of Israel." The goal of this appeal is to counteract the rise of anti-Israel sentiment within Catholic circles. The authors argue that this trend has become increasingly prominent post-October 7 and involves both political accusations and theological justifications that deny the theological significance of the Jewish people and the Land of Israel.
The document, based on biblical verses, emphasizes God's irrevocable covenant with the Jewish people and the historical connection between the Jewish people and the land. It also rejects the notion that the Church has replaced Israel and points out the historic meeting between Theodor Herzl and Pope Pius X, which initially went poorly. Villeneuve notes that this conversation is often misattributed to Catholic doctrine, without acknowledging its origins in Herzl's diary.
The authors address the increasing criticism of the Vatican's stance on Israel, particularly in the wake of the war against Hamas. They argue that the Church's silence during this time has echoed past pontifical silences during the Holocaust, and that anti-Zionism constitutes a form of contemporary antisemitism. The document seeks to clarify that Catholic Zionism does not equate to end-times, ethnic supremacism, or unconditional support for any Israeli government or policy.
Instead, it advocates for a balanced approach that supports Israel's right to exist while condemning violence against all parties involved and advocating for justice for the Palestinian people.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written; read the original for the full account.
