Some Christian pilgrims visiting Israel have personally offered their support to Israeli forces positioned along with border with the Gaza Strip. About 25 people strummed guitars and sang religious songs Thursday as hundreds of troops milled about in the distance alongside tanks and armored vehicles. The pilgrims — from the U.S., Europe and Australia — also wore white T-shirts that said “Your God is my God.” And they waved Israeli flags. The group had planned to visit Israel long before this week’s invasion was launched. Some evangelical groups support Israel, believing that Jewish domination over the region is part of biblical prophecy.

- AP

A Memphis church has erected a 72-foot-tall replica of the Statue of Liberty. It is tall and green like the original, with the right arm extended upward in the familiar pose. But instead of a torch, this statue holds a cross. And the famous inscription — “Give me your tired, your poor …” — has been replaced by Roman numerals representing the Ten Commandments. A tear is running down her face. It has a $260,000 price tag. World Overcomers Outreach Ministers Church is calling it the “Statue of Liberation.” It will be unveiled at an Independence Day ceremony. The pastor, Apostle Alton Williams, says people cannot drive by the statue “without thinking about their relationship with God.”

- AP

A Montreal priest faces a $150 fine after city officials ruled an electronic billboard flashing biblical messages outside his church was a form of advertising. Rev. Charles-Eugene Apesteguy says the purpose of the sign is to “bring good news.” He says the sign’s messages are not advertising. Although the fine is small, Apesteguy’s Roman Catholic parish paid $5,000 for the second-hand electronic billboard. It was installed over the front door in hopes of grabbing the attention of passers-by. Apesteguy says many people have thanked the church for the messages of hope.

- AP