Photo credit: Yishai Shavit, JICC volunteer
During some of Jerusalem’s busiest religious and public events, thousands of worshippers and visitors pass through Mount Zion, the Patriarchate area, and the Old City. These are moments when physical presence, clear communication, and established relationships on the ground can make a real difference.
Throughout the Selichot period, the JICC team was active around Mount Zion and the Patriarchate, providing information, maintaining direct communication with residents and relevant authorities, and helping prevent misunderstandings and tensions by being present and accessible in the field.
This work continued during the Priestly Blessing (Birkat Kohanim) and the Jerusalem March, when large crowds arrived in and around the Old City. Our team was present throughout the area, including along the Via Dolorosa, monitoring sensitive points, assisting residents and visitors, and maintaining direct communication with the police and local communities.
During the High Holidays, JICC also serves as a direct link between the police and Mount Zion residents, helping coordinate information around access to and from the area, changes affecting residents during major events, and problems that arise on the ground. Having a familiar and accessible point of contact allows concerns to be communicated quickly and practical issues to be addressed before they develop into larger problems.
This field presence is an important part of JICC’s ongoing work in the area. It strengthens working relationships between residents and the police, improves the flow of information, and helps identify and address potential points of friction early.
The relationships are built throughout the year. During Jerusalem’s busiest days, being physically present is what allows those relationships to work when they are needed most.