Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida: Seven CPTers are in
Orlando, Florida for the Israel's Jubilee celebration April 29-May 3.
They are prepared to initiate a dialog with the Christian Right,
represented by the Christian Alliance for Israel, the sponsoring
organization. The Christian Alliance views Israel's 50 years of
statehood (1948-1998) as a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy.

On the opening day of the conference, the CPTers observed some of the
strengths of Evangelical Christianity. Those gathered here are committed
to combat anti-Semitism in our world. The group exhibits zeal and
creativity in worship. People of color are prominent among those
registered for the event and scheduled as speakers.

The Christian Right is a primary player in Middle East politics. Major
groups of Evangelical and conservative Christians support the continued
exclusion of Palestinians from the political and cultural life of the
country. These Christians also support violations of United Nations
resolutions regarding expansion of Israeli settlements onto Palestinian
land, including demolition of Palestinian property. The CPT literature
table in the midst of 200 other exhibitors has provided the setting for
conversations to begin.

Organizers of the event expected more people than have shown up to date.
Meeting rooms for worship and speakers have been downsized from space
for 18,000. At this point it is doubtful that even the smaller rooms for
12,000 will be filled. About 8,000 are registered. Israeli Prime
Minister Netanyahu "has been released" by conference organizers from a
scheduled appearance on Sunday. Organizers cited political opposition in
Israel from those opposed to the Messianic Jews who are participating in
this event.

Delegation Participants include:
Amy Babcock-Sellers, Pittsburgh, PA
Harold A. Penner, Akron, PA
David Hiebert, Scottdale, PA
Marilyn Miller, Boulder, CO
Bob Carlsten, Denver, CO
Linda Hardesty, Boulder, CO
Cliff Kindy, North Manchester, IN