THE warped view of Israel and the importance of its nation to Christianity are to be addressed in a conference in Sidmouth next week. Gerry Gosling, manager of the Mustard Seed bookshop, has organised the two day conference in the hope of changing peopl

THE "warped" view of Israel and the importance of its nation to Christianity are to be addressed in a conference in Sidmouth next week.

Gerry Gosling, manager of the Mustard Seed bookshop, has organised the two day conference in the hope of changing people's outlook of the Middle Eastern country.

And he has had an overwhelming response from the public with 60 people already on the waiting list.

The talks, which are to be held in the Manor Pavilion on Monday and Tuesday, will feature two well known Jewish international speakers and book writers, Chuck Cohen and Lance Lambert, who both live in Israel.

Gerry said: "There has been a lot about Palestine and Gaza in the news but there has been nothing on the balance of that about Israel. I just felt it's important to redress the balance and to put Israel on the map.

"It is a very small nation of people surrounded by other nations who want them off the map. They need as much protection as we did in the Second World War.

"Someone needs to recognise what is happening in the world and people need to know why Israel is important- that is what the conference is about.

"One of the main focuses is the importance of the Jewish nation and Israel from the scriptures- how important she is to our faith completely."

Gerry, who has travelled to Israel several times, believes the images of destruction and war shows only a limited view of the country, which he describes as peaceful.

He added: "People are getting a warped impression of what is happening which is very sad. Our impression was a very beautiful land and at peace."

The conference, called Israel today: Political mistake or prophetic fulfilment, will encompass a broad audience from far and wide.

"I'm very happy at the response," said Gerry, "there are certainly people travelling into the area. The oldest gentleman is 102 this year which is wonderful and there will also be many young people."

Gerry will be selling CDs of the conference, for those who were unable to take part in it. For more information ring him on (01297) 552046.