Nazareth

Churches in the Holy Land closed for two days last week to protest a decision by the Israeli government to allow the construction of a mosque beside the Basilica of the Annunciation, where Christians believe the Virgin Mary received word that she would bear the Son of God. The Vatican criticized the Israeli decision and in a strongly worded statement accused the "political authorities [of] fomenting division." The Israeli government reacted angrily, condemning the Vatican statement and saying it was only trying to "lower tensions" between Christians and Muslims. The controversy has strained relations between Israel and the Vatican and may complicate preparations for a visit by the Pope planned for March.