Press Release issued September 23, 2008:

Rabbi Jamie Cowen, president of the Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations (UMJC), issued a statement in support of the 2008 U.S. State Department's International Religious Freedom report on Israel, released on September 19. The report recognizes and criticizes recent increased persecution of Messianic Jews, stating, "Government policy continued to support the generally free practice of religion; however, some increases in societal abuses and discrimination contributed to a slight decline in respect for religious freedom during the reporting period. Specifically, societal abuses and discrimination increased against some evangelical Christian groups as well as Messianic Jews (persons who identify as Jews and who believe Jesus was the Messiah)." (www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2008/108484.htm.) 

The UMJC, an association of Messianic Jewish congregations throughout the US, with several international members as well, has a long record of both support for Israel and highlighting discrimination against Messianic Jews. This past summer, the UMJC held its annual convention in Israel, outside of Jerusalem, and issued a declaration to the Israeli government to halt the discrimination of Messianic Jews in the land. (See www.umjc.net/content/view/394/40) The declaration was reported on by the Jerusalem Post.  

Originally, the organization was contracted to meet in a Jerusalem hotel, but the contract was broken by the hotel due to pressure from ultra-orthodox factions. Despite the discrimination, the UMJC brought over 200 Messianic Jews, primarily from the United States, to tour Israel, support the Messianic Jewish community in the land, and disburse funds to humanitarian projects. The UMJC has distributed over $100,000 to Israeli humanitarian needs in the past three years. 

Rabbi Cowen, leader of Tikvat Israel Congregation in Richmond, VA, reiterated the UMJC's strong support for Israel, its borders, and its people, adding, "nevertheless, it is time for the Israeli government to fairly treat the Messianic Jewish community in its midst, as well as those desiring to immigrate."