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JERUSALEM: Stepped up security for Gay Pride Parade. GAFCON Leaders Warned
By David W. Virtue in Jerusalem
www.virtueonline.org
6/25/2008
Security is being stepped up in Jerusalem and at the Renaissance Hotel where 1200 pilgrims are gathered for a Global Anglican Future Conference as several thousand homosexual activists are expected to show up for a Gay Pride Parade Day being held here Thursday.
VirtueOnline has learned that several hundred activists are flying in from the US and the UK in a show of strength against the theologically conservative GAFCON pilgrims though there is no official link between the two events. It's an odd coincidence, said a GAFCON leader.
"Tactically it positions them to make a statement in the midst of a global orthodox event that is focusing on the redemption of people including homosexuals," said one North American Anglican bishop.
Gay activists moved the event up from June 21 to June 26 for no apparent reason, but observers believe this was done to embarrass the organizers and pilgrims of GAFCON. "Clearly it is an in your face act because if the appearance of British and American homosexual activists," said a GAFCON spokesperson.
Security has tightened at the hotel, but it is "under control" VOL was told. "If pilgrims see someone who they believe should not be there they are to report it immediately to the hotel management. We don't want anyone causing trouble," said a security agent.
Both Nigerian Archbishop Peter Akinola and Church of England Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali (Rochester) have personal security agents standing feet away from them at all times. Both men can only be approached by invitation only.
Last year the Gay Pride Parade drew 10,000 police who guarded the parade because Orthodox Jews stoned them. Orthodox Jewish leaders have made it clear they do not want such a parade in Jerusalem.
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