Bethlehem News
The Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate in Occupied Jerusalem, Patriarch Attallah Hanna, has refused to receive the American President George Bush, in the nativity Church of Bethlehem during the President's recent visit.
His rebuttal to the American president generated immense satisfaction among the Palestinian people, especially the Christians, who had been unhappy and embarrassed at the warm welcome and servility portrayed in the reception of the American president by other religious leaders.
A Palestinian Christian national stated that "The refusal of the Archbishop of Jerusalem to receive George Bush has lifted our morale". He added, "It is shameful to receive the maker of wars at the birth place of Christ, the Prince of peace."
Earlier this month, in a talk to Palestinian refugees, at Buqa'a Camp in Jordan, Hanna declared " President Bush and what he does has no relationship whatsoever with Christianity. It bears no relationship to Christian ethics, morals, values, or Christian behavior. Hence, we also reject the policies of America, its absolute and unequivocal support of Israel, and its occupation of Iraq.
From Bethlehem News
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