British Christians donate ambulances in memory of 1948 Hadassah Convoy Massacre

Christian Friends of MDA UK (CFMDA) have donated two ambulances to the people of Israel in remembrance of the 1948 Hadassah Convoy Massacre.

The tragedy saw two ambulances blown up, killing 78 people, including doctors, nurses, students, patients, Hebrew University faculty members, Haganah fighters and a British soldier.

The ceremony was held on Mt Scopus in Jerusalem, adjacent to the actual location of the incident, with a reception at the Hadassah Hospital, where the 1948 convoy was headed.

Attended by 60 people, guest and dignitaries included Sir Ian and Lady Gainsford, President of MDA UK and Elaine Feingold, widow of the late Norman Feingold z’’l who had the vision for Christian Friends of MDA, Barbara Goldstein, Deputy Executive Director of Hadassah Jerusalem Office and Christine Darg of Jerusalem Channel.TV.

Former Ambassador to the UK, Daniel Taub, sent his good wishes, saying: “Many, many thanks and congratulations for this amazing gift to the people of Israel”, while CFMDA UK president Rev’d Mark Madeley, added: “CFMDA was formed in 2006 during the Second Lebanon War as a very practical way of showing our support for Israel”.  Christians in the UK have since donated seven ambulances and an Emergency Room to the people of Israel.

Barbara Dingle, Executive Committee of CFMDA and organiser of the guest list, said: “This was a very special and deeply moving occasion. Whilst we mourn the tragedy of the massacre, we are truly thankful to all our supporters around the country who have given donations and made this remembrance possible.”