Pro-Israel rally held in Hastings interrupted by pro-Palestinian protestors
A rally held in Hastings to mark five months since the invasion of Israel was interrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters, who heckled the speakers.
The rally, called 'Still Standing with Israel' is the fifth to be held at the Hastings Clock Tower since October 7 last year.
Rally Spokesperson Pastor Nigel Woodley facilitated the proceedings and said it was another important milestone in this present conflict.
"The rally was another stand for the right of the State of Israel to defend her homeland, rescue her hostages, and bring an end to Hamas rule in Gaza," Woodley said.
"With a strong presence from the Christian community the rally was a stand for Israel with an evangelical message entwined."
Close to 200 people attended last Thursday evening, including representatives from local churches and half a dozen pastors.
Cheval Bailey sang the Israeli national anthem – Hatikvah, meaning the Hope.
Woodley reminded the crowd that the New Zealand government had recently designated the entire entity of Hamas as a terrorist organization, in line with its closest western partners.
Pastor Michael Ngahuka from Destiny Church called Israel “the jewel of God’s eye” and spoke about the need to put our faith in Israel’s messiah, Jesus Christ.
Pastor Sajan Easow from Revive Church addressed the crowd and said he was deeply indebted to the nation of Israel because her people, the Jewish people, brought the knowledge of the messiah to the nation of his birth – India.
Pastors Graham and Gina Sunderland from Mohaka prayed passionate prayers. Pastor Graham mentioned the suffering and plight of the innocents of Gaza and prayed for their deliverance from the rule of the terror organization Hamas. Pastor Gina prayed for strength for the people of Israel who are going through one of their darkest hours in modern history.
"A tiny group of pro-Palestinian protesters turned up shouting expletives and tried to heckle the proceedings. They were quickly asked not to use that sort of language and were moved on."
