WASHINGTON (JTA) — More than 900 churches in the United States participated in a Christian Zionist organization’s event honoring Israel.
CUFI Sunday, sponsored by Christians United For Israel, was incorporated into the regular Sunday church service.
Although varying from church to church, the service generally included a sermon about the Jewish state and a request to sign the group’s "Israel Pledge." The pledge states that the Jewish people "have a right to live in their ancient land of Israel" and that Israel has the right to defend itself from terrorism.
Churches from all 50 states, and a total of 1,100 churches in 49 countries, participated in the event, according to CUFI.
CUFI Executive Director David Brog said that while the scheduling of CUFI Sunday was set well before it was known that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would be meeting with President Obama the next day, the coincidence was significant.
"This outpouring of support for Israel certainly sends a message to President Obama that millions of Christians across America are concerned about Israel’s security," said Brog.
Also Sunday in Colorado Springs, CUFI celebrated its 100th "Night to Honor Israel," events it has sponsored across the country over the past three years to teach Christians about the importance of backing Israel.
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