Representatives from ADL and other major Jewish organizations met with the leadership of the Presbyterian Church (USA) on September 28 to discuss their proposed divestment from Israel, concerns relating to the security barrier and the Presbyterian-funded messianic church, Avodat Yisrael.

"It was a good beginning, but we remain concerned," said Rabbi Gary Bretton-Granatoor, ADL Director of Interfaith Affairs. "It is clear that they heard, perhaps for the first time, the true distress of the Jewish community. It is also clear that there is a different tone to the dialogue, and that we now have the opportunity to enter into a true dialogue on Jewish-Christian relations instead of reciting parallel monologues."

ADL has called the Presbyterian Church's action to continue funding the Avodat Yisrael Church, and other missionizing churches targeting Jews, and the resolution calling for divestiture from Israel "offensive and distressing.” The League also characterized the PC (USA) criticism of Israel’s security fence as unbalanced and unfair.

In a follow-up letter, ADL reiterated its concerns with the Church’s policy on Jews and Israel and proposed opening a dialogue.

• What they Are Saying: Statements by Presbyterian Leaders on Divestment