Israel’s Christians rely on faith and allies as they fear rising harassment

In northern Israel, Christians, who constitute less than 2% of the country's population, are facing growing concerns about increased harassment due to their visible faith. Sister Mayela, a Mexican nun residing in Jerusalem for over two decades, has experienced increased hostility, including a violent attack by another Catholic nun in Jerusalem's Old City.

She now seeks protection from a Jewish volunteer while working near another nun who was also attacked. Sister Mayela expresses her fear, stating, "Before, one could live with more confidence. Some people spat, some said hi. Now we have to live trusting in God."

Despite the challenges, many Christians continue to find resilience in their faith and support from fellow Israelis. Even a teenager's attempt to spew near Sister Mayela was reported to the police by a volunteer. These incidents are part of the difficulties faced by Christians in Israel, particularly since the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, which plunged the nation back into war and polarization.

While interfaith leaders and researchers are encouraged by improved policing, prosecution, and the recent appointment of a government envoy to the Christian world, some Christians feel the state isn't doing enough to protect them from crime due to their non-Jewish status. Nonetheless, groups of Catholics recently joined a joyous pilgrimage on Mount Tabor, where they believe Jesus appeared transfigured alongside Jewish prophets Moses and Elijah.

Sister Muna, the nun who led the youth group, emphasizes the need to diffuse God's light in a world filled with darkness.