ICEJ USA announces ‘Christian Declaration Against Antisemitism’ amid rising attacks on Jews & anti-Israel protests worldwide

The United States arm of the International Christian Embassy of Jerusalem (ICEJ) on Tuesday launched a document intended as a unified statement by Christians against the rising tide of antisemitism and anti-Israel violence in the U.S. and around the world. 

The statement, titled the "Christian Declaration Against Antisemitism," written by Christian leaders from across denominations and traditions denounces Jew hatred as “incompatible with biblical faith and with the principles of justice, freedom and human dignity that underpin American society.” 

ICEJ USA President Dr. Susan Michael said, “Antisemitism is a moral evil that dehumanizes the Jewish people and undermines the very foundations of a free and just society.” 

“As Christians, we are compelled by our faith to denounce antisemitism unequivocally and to stand with the Jewish people in word and deed,” she continued. 

The declaration comes amid a rising tide of antisemitic attacks worldwide, including attacks on Jews in Europe, the United States, and the horrific shooting attack during the Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. 

“We are Christian leaders from across the United States. We come from many different churches and denominations with differing theologies, yet we stand united today to denounce the plague of antisemitism that has spread across our great nation,” the statement says. “Hatred of Jews is an unconscionable violation of the principles of justice, freedom, and human dignity, principles that all Americans and our institutions must seek to uphold and defend.” 

The declaration specifically ties its stance against antisemitism to the biblical values of both Christianity and the idea of human rights found in U.S. law. 

“As Christians, we recognize that all are created in the image and likeness of God and that antisemitism is a gross violation of human dignity rooted in this truth about who we are as persons,” the declaration continues. “Antisemitism is dangerous not just to Israel and the Jewish people, but to all people who share the values of democracy, truth and justice, and freedom – values that are God-ordained and God-given.” 

Acknowledging the history of Christian antisemitism, the declaration calls out supersessionism, stating, “As Christians, we must still repent for past expressions of antisemitism in our churches. In that light and in support of this declaration, we affirm that the Jewish people remain God’s chosen people.” 

The declaration commits Christian leaders and congregations to peaceful action in defense of Jewish Americans and Jewish institutions, stating, “As Christian leaders, we will oppose – through peaceful action and clear moral witness – anyone who promotes violence against Jews and Jewish places of worship, as well as Jewish homes, schools, community centers, places of business, or any identifiably Jewish institution. We will inspire our fellow Christians in our congregations to join with us in this endeavor.” 

The timing of the declaration's launch during Hanukkah is also significant, as it is a holiday celebrating the freedom of Jews to worship according to their traditions despite persecution.

Many of the traditional Hanukkah songs speak about the victory of light over darkness and of courage in the face of persecution. 

“The silence of good people has too often allowed antisemitism to grow unchecked,” Michael said. “This declaration is a clear statement that hatred of the Jewish people will find no home among the followers of Jesus.” 

Those interested in reading the full declaration, or adding their signature, can do so here.