Arson Attack Destroys Part of Church at Site Where Jesus Fed the 5,000

Carrie Dedrick | Updated: Jun 18, 2015

Arson Attack Destroys Part of Church at Site Where Jesus Fed the 5,000

A church at the site where Christians believe Jesus fed the 5,000 has been partially destroyed by arson. Christian Today reports graffiti that denounced the worship of “false gods” was also spray painted on the church wall, which led authorities to believe that the arson was committed by Jewish zealots. 

Firefighters said the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes had fires start in several places throughout the building, which is evidence that the fire was intentional. 

Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said, "Firefighters arrived at the scene ... and (the fire) was put out, but extensive damage was caused to the church both inside and out.” 

Internal Security Minister Gilad Erdan condemned the crime. 

"The torching of the church is a cowardly and despicable act which contradicts Israel's basic values,” he said. 

Hate crimes targeted to churches, mosques and monasteries are not uncommon in Israel. The Rabbis for Human Rights group said that dozens of arrests have been made in relation to the crimes, but perpetrators are usually not indicted on account of young age. 

Publication date: June 18, 2015



Arson Attack Destroys Part of Church at Site Where Jesus Fed the 5,000