The International Christian Embassy Jerusalem was established in1980 in recognition of the biblical significance of all of Jerusalem and its unique connection to the Jewish people. Today the ICEJ represents millions of Christians, churches, and denominations to the nation and people of Israel. We recognize in the restoration of Israel the faithfulness of God to keep His ancient covenant with the Jewish people. Our main objectives are:
• To stand with Israel in support and friendship
• To equip and teach the worldwide church regarding God’s purposes with Israel and the nations of the Middle East
• To be an active voice of reconciliation between Jews, Christians, and Arabs, and to support the churches and congregations in the Holy Land
From its head offices in Jerusalem, the ICEJ reaches out into more than 170 countries worldwide, with branch offices in over 90 nations.
Our vision is:
• To reach every segment of Israel’s society with a Christian testimony of comfort and love
• To reach and actively represent to Israel the support of denominations, churches, and believers from every nation on Earth
The Christian Embassy is a non-denominational faith-based ministry supported by the voluntary contributions of our partners and friends across the globe. We invite you to join with us as we minister to Israel and the Jewish people worldwide by donating to the ongoing work and witness of the ICEJ.
FROM THE DESK OF THE SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT
Dear Friends,
After more than a year of war, the ICEJ is more committed than ever to continue loving, caring for, and comforting the people of Israel. Even though the war is ongoing, we are looking forward with hope for the people of Israel and Jewish people worldwide.
We are doing this in practical ways in the Land. This month’s issue of Word From Jerusalem tells about all the ways we aided the people of Israel over the past year, whether by helping to provide traumatized people and children with therapy, providing food and essentials for displaced families, supplying protective gear and equipment to first responders, delivering bomb shelters to areas that need them, or rebuilding in preparation for evacuees to return home.
One vulnerable group impacted by the war is Holocaust Survivors. You'll read about these precious people and how the ICEJ is coming alongside them to not only protect them but help them process and heal from wounds inflicted by the events on and after October 7 that never fully healed from the Holocaust.
And despite the ongoing seven-front war, Aliyah continues at a fast pace—God’s promise to bring His people home to the land promised to them is being fulfilled before our very eyes. Over 30,000 Olim (immigrants) came home to Israel in 2024, a strong year for Jewish immigration amid such dire circumstances. One group the ICEJ recently assisted in making Aliyah included 87 teenagers immigrating to Israel without their parents. I encourage you to read about this unique program.
FROM JERUSALEM
CREDITS
ICEJ President Dr. Juergen Buehler
USA President Susan Michael
VP International Affairs Dr. Mojmir Kallus
VP Finance David van der Walt
VP Operations Barry R. Denison
Senior VP & International Spokesman David Parsons
VP AID & Aliyah Nicole Yoder
Managing Editor/Publications Director Laurina Driesse
USA Managing Editor Karen Engle
Staff Writer Anastasiya Gooding
Graphic Design/Illustrators Ryan Tsuen, Nancy Schimp
Annie Splatt on UnSplash, Operation Lifeshield ,Wikimedia, Wordpress, ICEJ Staff and Branches
The New King James Bible is used for all Bible references unless otherwise noted.
Word From Jerusalem is published by the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Word From Jerusalem has no subscription price and is supported through contributions worldwide. The ICEJ USA Branch is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with offices in Tennessee, Florida, and Washington, DC. All gifts to this ministry are tax-deductible according to United States law.
INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN EMBASSY JERUSALEM - USA
Support our ministry online at: www.icejusa.org
Through it all, we have not stopped praying. Our Global Prayer Gatherings (GPGs) continue. Join us daily or when you can at 9:00 a.m. (EST) at www.icejusa.org/ globalprayer.
Shalom from Jerusalem,
Senior Vice President & International Spokesman International Christian Embassy Jerusalem
COVER PHOTO
President Trump at the Israel Museum, Jerusalem, May 23, 2017 (source: Wikimedia Commons) FOR MAGAZINE ARCHIVES visit www.icejusa.org/wfj
THE SPIRITAND THE CRAFTSMEN
BY DAVID R. PARSONS ICEJ SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & SPOKESMAN
“‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of hosts.”
(ZECHARIAH 4:6)
Last year’s Feast theme came from a prophetic utterance by Zechariah in the early days of Israel’s restoration to the Land following the Babylonian exile. The Jewish remnant returning from Babylon had to rebuild Jerusalem with a trowel in one hand and a sword in the other, due to the local Samaritan opposition. But they had a written decree from Cyrus, the benevolent
Persian emperor, authorizing them to rebuild their temple in Jerusalem, and Cyrus even gave them money for this task and returned some of the gold and silver treasures taken from the sacked temple.
The book of Ezra tells us these Jewish returnees first set about to rebuild the altar of the Lord and
then the temple itself. But before long, they ran into trouble. Cyrus died, so their permission to build was gone, and the money started running out. The local Samaritans stepped up their agitation against the returning Jews. Plus, some “old timers” complained this new building was nowhere near as grand and glorious as Solomon’s Temple.
So, work on the temple came to a complete halt, and for 16 years, the site collected dust—that is, until the Lord sent the prophets Haggai and Zechariah to encourage the people to resume the work and finish building the temple.
“Be strong… and work; for I am with you… My Spirit remains among you; do not fear!”
Haggai assured the people to “be strong … and work; for I am with you. My Spirit remains among you; do not fear!” He also promised “the glory of this latter temple shall be greater than the former” (Haggai 2:4–5, 9).
Meanwhile, Zechariah added that while it was good to have might and power, ultimately the Spirit of God would accomplish the task of rebuilding the temple (Zechariah 4:6). The mountain of rubble before them would become a level “plain,” and the “capstone” or finished work would be brought forth with shouts of “grace” by a people motivated to get the job done. Finally, Zechariah urged the people not to despise the day of small beginnings, signifying a great destiny ahead for the rebuilt temple.
Now, the prophet Zechariah was a true seer. Like Daniel, Ezekiel, and John the Revelator, Zechariah had extraordinary visions of current realities and future apocalyptic events, often featuring powerful angelic and created beings, along with strange animals or objects representing the spiritual forces at play. In Zechariah 4, the prophet saw two olive trees pouring oil into a menorah and in Zechariah 3, he saw Satan making accusations against Joshua, the high priest, as well as the coming “Branch”—the Messiah. He saw this Messiah touching down once more on the Mount of Olives in chapter 14, a moment we all long for and expect to happen very soon.
Back in Zechariah 1, the prophet saw other unusual beings and events, and I believe they, too, speak much about our day. The Jewish return to their ancestral homeland always seems to follow a pattern, and what was happening then is extremely relevant for Israel—and for us—today. First, he saw a man on a red horse and other
Illustration of Zerubbabel laying the cornerstone for the Second Temple (photo: WordPress)
colored horses standing among myrtle trees. An angel revealed they are assigned to go to and fro, throughout the earth, and report back what they find. In this instance, they reported: “Behold, all the earth is resting quietly” (Zechariah 1:7–11).
Now that might sound like a good report, but in verse 12, the Angel of the Lord reacted by crying out: “O Lord of hosts, how long will You not have mercy on Jerusalem and on the cities of Judah, against which You were angry these seventy years?”
Interestingly, from this passage, we learn angels can pray—even great and powerful ones like the “Angel of the Lord.” And they seem to have a heavy prayer burden for Jerusalem!
It’s also fascinating that this angel was disturbed by the quietness prevailing on the earth. There was peace, which would normally be viewed as good. But here it meant the status quo would continue, which also meant that Jerusalem and the temple would remain in ruins. So, the angel cried out to the Lord, “How long will this go on?”
Zechariah recorded the Lord answering the angel with good and comforting words about Jerusalem, that God is “zealous for Jerusalem and for Zion with great zeal. I am exceedingly angry with the nations at ease; for I was a little angry, and they helped—but with evil intent.” The Lord added: “I am returning to Jerusalem with mercy; my house shall be built in it. … The Lord will again comfort Zion, and will again choose Jerusalem” (Zechariah 1:13–17).
Finally, Zechariah saw four horns, which represented surrounding kingdoms or powers “that have scattered Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem,” along with four craftsmen that “are coming to terrify them, to cast out the horns of the nations that lifted up their horn against the land of Judah to scatter it” (Zechariah 1:18–21).
This last vision gives me such encouragement and hope about where Israel is today. The nations around ancient Israel could have easily kept the Jews in exile and Jerusalem in ruins, but Zechariah was assured that the Spirit of God would bring forth the antidote—the craftsmen needed to rebuild the temple and the fallen walls of Jerusalem.
This Hebrew word for “craftsmen” (harash–שָׁרָָחָ) refers to stone carvers and carpenters, as well as architects and engineers and other skilled artisans. A prime example is Bezalel, of whom the Lord said: “I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, to design artistic works, to work in gold, in silver, in bronze, in cutting jewels for setting, in carving wood, and to work in all manner of workmanship” (Exodus 31:3–5).
The Bible records that such craftsmen were sent by King Hiram of Tyre to build David’s royal palace (2 Samuel 5:11) and later likely worked on Solomon’s Temple. When Israel and Judah were taken into exile, the craftsmen were taken along with them (2 Kings 24:14). But Zechariah is assured they would be summoned back by the Spirit to help rebuild the house of the Lord in Jerusalem.
Yet the word “craftsmen” also can mean “skilled warriors.” Indeed, those gifted metal workers who made beautiful, ornate temple instruments could also make strong swords and spears to defend the city (see 1 Samuel 13:19; 2 Kings 24:16; Ezekiel 21:31). And surely God used these
invented the microchips that have propelled the world into the Digital Age. They have given us incredible medical advances and raised up mighty skyscrapers on mere sand dunes. Every major global company has research and development offices in Israel to take advantage of this nation’s highly skilled craftsmen.
And even more importantly, Israel has built an army of skilled warriors to defend itself against much larger forces. In fact, many of Israel’s most amazingly beneficial modern-day inventions were created by those who came out of the IDF’s research divisions.
skilled warriors and metalsmiths to “terrify” and “cast out” those nations and peoples opposed to the restoration of Israel—and Jerusalem and does so even in our day.
What an encouraging word for us as we witness the current diabolical efforts of the “horns” surrounding Israel seeking to uproot and destroy the Jewish nation and people at this very time. For decades now, bitter enemies have sought to hinder and thwart the Jewish return to the Land of Israel. But the Lord has supplied Israel with skilled craftsmen who have built the nation from scratch into a hi-tech miracle and military powerhouse. They pioneered water desalination and made the desert bloom. They
How remarkable then to witness Israel’s military and intelligence services performing such stunning feats against Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran over recent months. The Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow III antimissile defense systems are proving to be the best in the world. The secret operation involving rigged pagers and walkie-talkies exploding in the hands of Hezbollah operatives was spellbinding. Israel has a top-of-the-line battle tank in the Merkava IV and the next generation F35 stealth fighterbombers. One recent media report claimed the Arab world suddenly views Israel as having mythical powers.
Some may say this is because of the support from the United States or other allies, which indeed have helped Israel maintain a qualitative military edge over any potential array of regional foes. But the prophet Zechariah foretold long ago that this would all be orchestrated by the Spirit of the Lord!
This Hebrew word for “craftsmen” (harash –
) refers to stone carvers and carpenters, as well as skilled warriors.
Iron Dome interceptions over Ashkelon (Photo AP)
WILL TRUMP’S WIN ALSO BRING VICTORY FOR ISRAEL?
B Y DAVID R. PARSONS, ICEJ SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & SPOKESMAN
The historic political comeback of Donald J. Trump in this year’s eventful US presidential campaign will have a farreaching impact across America and around the globe. For Israelis, the big question is whether his surprisingly solid election win will bring a quick victory for Israel in its prolonged war against the Iranian-led axis of terror.
In assessing the outcome of this election from an Israel perspective, it is first worthwhile to sum up the Biden administration by saying that his team sent a myriad of mixed signals which aimed to topple the Netanyahu government and ended up impeding Israel’s war effort against Hamas, yet outgoing President Joe Biden did hand over billions of dollars in sorely needed
American weapons, and he seemed genuinely sensitive to the way the October 7 massacres touched the raw nerve of the Holocaust.
At the same time, there is widespread relief in Israel that the nation is not having to cope with a Kamala Harris presidency. Polls showed twothirds of Israelis saw Trump as more friendly to Israel, and in this they are quite correct.
After all, there were actually two incumbents running in this race, and whereas VP Harris was double-minded on Israel at every turn, Trump could boast the most stellar pro-Israel record of any president ever. During his first term in the White House from 2016 to 2020, Trump:
• Recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and moved the US Embassy there
• Cut funding to the Palestinian Authority and UNRWA over corruption, incitement, and pay-to-slay
• Recognized the Golan Heights as sovereign Israeli territory
• Brought historic reconciliation between Israel and several Sunni Arab states via the Abraham Accords
• Pulled Washington out of the seriously flawed Iranian nuclear deal
And his Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, deemed Israeli communities in Judea/Samaria to be legal enterprises. No other US president can touch this list of policy accomplishments for Israel.
President-Elect Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu on friendly terms (photo source: Wikipedia)
Pre-Election Concerns
Yet over the course of the past four years, Trump has given the pro-Israel community reasons to be concerned about a possible second term. First, his relationship with Benjamin Netanyahu soured after the Israeli prime minister congratulated Joe Biden on his election victory in November 2020, rather than siding with Trump on his protests that the election was stolen. Later, Trump openly criticized Netanyahu as weak for not assisting with the targeted strike on Qasem Soleimani, head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.
More recently, Trump objected to the IDF’s almost daily release of video clips of precision air strikes on enemy targets in Gaza and Lebanon, which unnecessarily places that information in the hands of pro-Hamas and Hezbollah propagandists. He also chided Israel for not speeding up the pace of battle, arguing that the slow, deliberate approach was only fueling antisemitic protests worldwide. And he hinted that a lack of support among American Jewish voters might lead to his defeat.
In a broader sense, Trump also adopted a clear anti-war stance in his election campaign. He
insisted he would end the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East—even arguing they would never have started if he were still president. He also pledged not to start any new wars requiring US troops to needlessly die on foreign soil. Taken alongside his “America First” agenda, some saw him emerging as a traditional conservative populist espousing American isolationism.
This harkens back to “Jacksonian populism,” which has become a trendy way for scholars to explain the current rise of what some decry as “Christian nationalism” in America. Andrew Jackson was the first US president from outside the main power centers of early America (Virginia, New York, and Massachusetts), a frontiersman who championed the nation’s agrarian society—its farmers and mill workers. His followers were skeptical of the rich and elite, the railroad and steel barons, and big government. They were especially opposed to foreign wars and entanglements.
Notable historians such as Walter Russell Meade and Michael Doran have recently traced this uniquely American philosophy down through the decades to today’s conservative Trump supporters—the working class and those from the countryside with no college degrees. They indeed distrust the coastal elites and the hitech barons of our day. Trump’s promises to keep out foreigners, end the current wars, and stay out of any new conflicts abroad resonated with them. This populist brand of isolationism, which certainly has found a following among conservative Republicans in recent generations, might lead one to think Trump is ready to abandon America’s allies, including Ukraine and Israel.
short order, he has nominated key figures for his second administration who are stalwart friends of Israel. Governor Mike Huckabee, tapped to be the next US ambassador to Israel, is a staunch Christian Zionist who has advocated for Israel’s annexation of Judea and Samaria. Senator Marco Rubio, slated to be the new Secretary of State, recently blamed every Palestinian casualty in Gaza on Hamas. Representative Elise Stefanik, the incoming US ambassador to the United Nations, famously scolded the presidents of Harvard, Columbia, and Penn universities for condoning antisemitism on campus. And the new Pentagon chief will be army veteran Pete Hegseth, a Fox News anchor who recently filmed a series of reports in Israel that accused Hamas of adopting a long-term strategy of perpetual war against the Jewish State.
This all bodes well for Israel as it awaits Trump’s second inauguration on January 20. Ukraine may be cornered into making painful territorial compromises, but Israelis can expect Trump to give them room to finish off Hamas and even Hezbollah. He may want it done more quickly, but he will have Jerusalem’s back.
Meanwhile, Trump may be against military wars, but he is quite fond and effective at economic warfare. We can expect a return of his “maximum pressure” policy toward Iran, whose economy has been on the verge of collapse. Iran will have little choice than to call on its terror militias in the region, and I am hopeful it will lead to ceasefires and the return of the remaining Israeli hostages in short order.
Post-Election Expectations
However, there is one major exception to this tradition of American isolationism, and that is Israel. Jacksonian populists always viewed America as a chosen nation with a divine destiny, much like Israel. The ancient Jewish commonwealth served as a model of a nation blessed by God and defended by farmer-warriors and shepherd-warriors like King David himself. So even if the United States were to turn inward and let the world descend into chaos, it would never abandon Israel.
This truth appears to be holding in the wake of Trump’s remarkable comeback victory. In very
Recall the case of American pastor Andrew Brunson, who was jailed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on spurious charges. Some say Trump is too friendly with dictators like Erdogan and, in fact, was far too cordial to him in public. But privately, Trump warned that he would bankrupt the Turkish economy if Brunson was not released. Trump then put tough economic pressure on Ankara to the point that leading Turkish bankers and businessmen begged Erdogan to release him, and Brunson was indeed set free.
Thus, we can expect Trump to revive the US economy and use it as leverage to secure proAmerica concessions in many parts of the world. And in this case, pro-America can also be read as pro-Israel.
Painting of US President Andrew Jackson (photo source: Wikipedia)
THE ICEJ USA HAS BEEN BUSY OVER THE PAST YEAR! HERE IS A GLIMPSE INTO A FEW OF OUR INITIATIVES AND AWARDS.
ICEJ SUPPORTS LAUNCH OF REGENT UNIVERSITY’S NEW INSTITUTE FOR ISRAEL STUDIES
Bob McDonald, former governor of Virginia; Michele Bachmann, Dean of Robertson School of Government; David Friedman, former US Ambassador to Israel; Dr. A. J. Nolte, Chair of the Israel Institute at Regent University; Dr. Susan Michael, ICEJ USA President; Cheryl McLeskey, owner McLeskey and Associates; Gordon Robertson, Chancellor Regent University and President of the Christian Broadcasting Network
Last year, with the support of the ICEJ USA’s President Dr. Susan Michael, Regent University announced the establishment of its new Institute for Israel Studies, amplifying the school’s stanch commitment to Israel.
The program officially launched at an event last September honoring former US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman, one of the architects of the Abraham Accords, with its Defender of Israel Award. At the event, attended by Dr. Michael, Former Congresswoman and Dean of Regent’s Roberston School of Government Michele Bachmann said the new program will offer to the public “top-notch educational resources about the modern State of Israel from a biblically faithful Christian perspective” through a podcast, social media, and public events and courses for students about the historical and contemporary realities of Israel.
Gordon Robertson, Chancellor at Regent University, said, “You can’t understand today’s headlines without a thorough knowledge of the modern history of Israel. This institute will give students a scholarly grasp of the origins of Zionism and its impact on our world today.” At the event, Dr. Michael presented Roberston with a Watchman of Zion award for his unwavering support of Israel through the ministry of the ICEJ.
“The locus of antisemitism and anti-Israel activity in the United States is coming from universities,” said Dr. A. J. Nolte, assistant professor of Government at the Robertson School and chair of the Institute. “The only way to fight that is to fight fire with fire in the academic university setting.” The Institute of Israel Studies will do just that.
Former US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman and Hon. Michele Bachmann, Dean of Regent's Robertson School of Government
Chancellor Gordon Robertson receives the Watchman of Zion award from ICEJ USA President Dr. Susan Michael.
Rabbi Pesach Wolicki, Executive Director of Israel365 Action;
ACLI SENDS LETTER TO PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES
Last October, the ICEJ’s network American Christian Leaders for Israel (ACLI) wrote a letter to presidential candidates Vice President Kamala Harris and now President-Elect Donald Trump urging them to adopt clear policies that support Israel’s security and sovereignty. Above, ICEJ USA’s President Susan Michael presents the letter to Dr. Ben Carson, the Faith Chairman for the Trump presidential campaign.
JERUSALEM CONNECTION AWARDED WATCHMAN OF ZION AWARD
ICEJ USA President Dr. Susan Michael awards Shelley Neese, president of the Jerusalem Connection—an organization started by the late General Jim Hutchens—with an award acknowledging the Jerusalem Connection’s partnership with Aliyah and projects in Israel and Watchman of Zion status.
GET TO KNOW YOUR ICEJ USA TEAM
SHANNON BENNETT Director of Communications
When the ICEJ publishes an email or social media post, distributes a press release, or participates in an event, our Director of Communications has likely been behind the entire process, ensuring it communicates the right message to the right audience at the right time.
Shannon received her BFA in Theater from the University of Misssissippi and worked at The Walt Disney Co. after graduation, eventually moving into broadcast production and marketing. Then, 9/11 happened, sending shock waves across the nation. At one point after that tragic day, as Shannon was studying the book of Isaiah while watching the events unfold in the Middle East, the Lord revealed to her God’s heart for Israel, and she began to realize prophecies in the Bible about the Jewish people were being fulfilled right before her eyes. From then on, she did everything she could to stand with the Jewish people and the State of Israel.
In 2007 she moved from Florida to Tennessee, where she worked as special projects coordinator for ICEJ’s USA Branch. After two years, she accepted a position at ICEJ’s headquarters in Jerusalem and moved to Israel. While there, she received her MA in Jewish Civilization from the Hebrew University, a program heavily focused on the Holocaust and Israeli history. After two years, she returned to the United States and accepted a position as the very first employee at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC, eventually becoming chief marketing officer. After 10 years at the Museum, she started working again with the ICEJ USA—just one week before the October 7 attacks.
Shannon is uniquely gifted in finding ways to share transformative stories that inspire and motivate others to get involved. “This includes how we tell a story through words, pictures, videos, books, presentations, and more, but also in the diverse channels we can use to reach people with those stories, whether through emails, press releases, an article or editorial, a social media post, an ad—the options are abundant.” She sees these channels as gateways to draw people into what God is doing in the world and, most importantly, Israel. “Nothing is more exhilarating than witnessing someone’s realization that God is doing something miraculous and inviting them to join in,” she says. “It’s a special moment that opens a whole new realm of faith and significance for that person.”
In addition to overseeing all external communication, Shannon works to form strong relationships with ICEJ USA stakeholders and is the central point of contact for all members of the press, campaigns, and events.
In her free time, she enjoys relaxing on the beach and listening to the waves while reading a great book, going to theme parks, talking with good friends, watching the amazing Florida sunsets from her balcony, seeing a stunning theatrical performance or concert, and cuddling with Ted E. Bear Bennett, her puppy. One of her favorite verses is Matthew 6:33: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
ICEJ USA BRANCH DONATES AMBULANCE TO MAGEN DAVID ADOM
BY MARELINKE VAN DER RIET, ICEJ PUBLICATIONS ASSISTANT
Arecent ceremony in Israel marked the dedication of a brand-new ambulance, generously donated by the ICEJ USA Branch to Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency medical, disaster, ambulance, and blood bank service. A delegation from the ICEJ attended the event, where the ambulance was officially unveiled. It will be stationed in the Upper Galilee, an area significantly impacted by the conflict in the North.
Magen David Adom, founded nearly 94 years ago, has long been the lifeblood of Israeli society, responding to medical emergencies during times of peace and war. The organization handles more than 2,000 patient cases daily, with its call center receiving over 4,000 calls on a typical day.
However, on October 7, 2023, the scale of MDA’s work reached unprecedented heights, as they fielded close to 23,000 emergency calls in just one day. This surge came in the wake of a brutal attack that left MDA personnel facing intense danger, with ambulances coming under fire from assault rifles and rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs). Tragically, two MDA members are still being held hostage in Gaza.
Despite the overwhelming challenges, MDA’s operations have remained steadfast. The organization’s remarkable volunteer force,
consisting of over 32,000 dedicated individuals, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that ambulances can reach those in need in minutes. Even more extraordinary is that 90 percent of MDA’s workforce are volunteers, many of whom balance their MDA duties with other full-time professions. The demands placed on these volunteers over the past year, particularly in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks, have been immense. MDA describes the events of that day as “the most traumatic day in the life of the organization.”
Yet throughout these trying times, MDA has received an outpouring of support from both the local Israeli community and from around the world, particularly from Christians. Yonatan, the head of MDA, shared his appreciation for this overwhelming solidarity: “The past year has been completely mind-blowing. I have never experienced that amount of support, and I’m not just talking about financial support. The moral support, the care, the interest—we are feeling it.” He further expressed his gratitude for the tremendous backing from the ICEJ and their consistent partnership in providing essential aid.
Over the past year alone, the ICEJ has donated two ambulances and two medi-cycles to MDA, boosting the organization’s ability to respond to emergencies across Israel. The latest donation— this brand-new ambulance—will help ensure MDA can continue its critical work in the
Upper Galilee, an area that has faced particular hardship during the conflict with Hezbollah.
During the dedication ceremony, Anne Ayalon, President of Christian Friends of Magen David Adom, emphasized the importance of Christian support for Israel: “You put your money where your mouth is,” she said, praising the incredible commitment of those who have supported MDA and Israel in tangible, impactful ways. Barry Denison, ICEJ USA’s Director of Finance, also expressed his pride in MDA’s invaluable work, highlighting the dedication and resilience of the organization’s team.
Nicole Yoder, ICEJ Vice President of AID and Aliyah, reflected on the privilege of being able to contribute to MDA’s life-saving mission. “We are very grateful for all that you have been doing—for protecting us as well. It is a really great privilege and honor for us at the ICEJ to be able to support this important work. Not only are we grateful, but we also want to honor the fact that you have acted with such courage and resilience in the face of unbelievable tragedy and difficulty.”
Through the generosity of Christian donors, ICEJ is making a meaningful difference in Israeli’s lives. These donations, including the latest ambulance, help MDA continue its vital work, saving lives and providing aid to those in need during one of the most challenging periods in Israel’s history.
Nicole Yoder, ICEJ Vice President AID & Aliyah, and Barry Denison, ICEJ USA Director of Finance, with the new ICEJ USA-donated ambulance
ONE YEAR OVERVIEW
ICEJ WAR RELIEF AID IN ISRAEL
BY ICEJ AID TEAM
On the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, 2023, the people of Israel awoke to a nightmare. At daybreak on that fateful October 7, red alert sirens sounded across much of the nation, sending millions of Israelis rushing to their bomb shelters as waves of rockets rained down from the skies. Soon it was clear this was no ordinary rocket attack. Thousands of Hamas terrorists from Gaza were also infiltrating Israel’s southern border, overrunning nearby towns and farming villages. On that dark day, some 1,200 Israelis were murdered, and 251 were taken hostage into Gaza. Families were burned alive in their homes, others were split apart amid the carnage and abductions, and tens of thousands of civilians were evacuated from the southern and northern border areas to safer locations across the country.
In response, the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ) swiftly mobilized to provide urgent relief aid and support to the grieving and traumatized nation. Thanks to the generous contributions from our Christian donors worldwide, we have worked tirelessly to offer practical assistance to Israeli communities in need over the past year of war and displacement.
Here is an overview of the many projects and efforts we have undertaken during the past 12 months to help meet the many needs created by this immense tragedy in Israel.
ICEJ AID OVERVIEW
OCTOBER 7, 2023 TO SEPTEMBER 30, 2024
FOOD
• Provided food and water for first responders at the Gaza border
• Supplied 2 delivery trucks to distribute food packages to evacuated and disadvantaged families
• Hosted cookouts for 820 security and first-responder teams
• Packaged 15,500 food boxes in Rishon LeTzion for evacuated families
• Provided 150 families with food support in Jerusalem and Ma’ale Adumim
EVACUEES
• Offered respite days to 450 evacuees, including new immigrants from South
• Gave 440 gift vouchers for families from Kfar Aza and Sderot
• Housed 18 evacuees in homes near Jerusalem, along with food and emergency items
• Furnished basic needs for evacuated families, including games, mattresses, first aid kits, and food
• Sponsored activities for 1,180 evacuees, some with disabilities
• Provided therapeutic activities and emotional support for residents of Kfar Aza
• Donated computers for 10 evacuee families
• Supplied 12 school classrooms, plus equipment and books for evacuated children
• Gave scholarships for evacuated students from Sderot to attend school in Jerusalem
• Packed 250 bags with toys and distributed them to evacuated families in the North
• Funded printing of 4,000 books to help traumatized evacuees with resilience (books printed at Be’eri Printing House to help rehabilitate the community)
• Provided tutoring for orphaned children of Kibbutz Be’eri
• Donated two “gymborees” (indoor playgrounds) for children of Kibbutz Alumim and Be’eri
• Contributed to a furniture-making workshop at the youth clubhouse of Kibbutz Nir Oz
• Gave financial help and replaced burned household items for 78 families in Nir Oz and Be’eri
• Funded parent/child trips and therapeutic activities for evacuees of Nir Yitzchak
• Renovated 10 apartments for elderly evacuees
• Supplied housewarming gift packages for Kibbutz Nir Oz, Be’eri, and Re’im families
EQUIPMENT & PROTECTIVE GEAR
• Provided 140 protective vests and helmets for first responders and security teams
• Funded equipment and training for two Community Emergency Teams (CET) in the North
• Supplied equipment and clothing for first response units, including Druze and lone soldiers
• Donated 8 ATVs with fire-fighting equipment to emergency teams in the North and South
• Sponsoring a large van for emergency response team in the Eshkol region
• Supplied 400+ special communication devices with chargers and accessories to multiple security teams
• Gave 46 red alert light and sound systems for kindergartens in Hof Ashkelon
HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS
THE ICEJ SUPPLIED 12 SCHOOL CLASSROOMS, PLUS EQUIPMENT AND BOOKS FOR EVACUATED CHILDREN.
• Stocked emergency food supplies for residents of our Haifa Home for Holocaust Survivors
• Bought mattresses, toiletries, etc., for elderly Survivors
• Purchased a backup generator for the Haifa Home
• Donated a special ambulance for the Haifa Home
• Set up two new protected rooms in the Haifa Home
• Supplied food to Holocaust Survivors in the North
• Supported Holocaust Survivors in the South with transport and trauma care sessions
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT
• Provided protective gear and medical supplies to 30 search-andrescue team members
• Gave paramedic kits and defibrillators to 10 medical first-response teams along the northern border
• Donated a military ambulance for Kibbutz Be’eri (with KKL–JNF in Czech Republic)
• Donated four life-support ambulances (including one for the Haifa Home and one for disabled people)
THE ICEJ DONATED EIGHT ATVS WITH FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT TO EMERGENCY TEAMS IN THE NORTH AND SOUTH.
• Contributed 2 medi-cycles to Magen David Adom
• Supplied 25 paramedic kits, 8 smaller medical kits, and 21 defibrillators for security officers along Israel's northern and southern borders
• Funded an intensive-care bed and stretcher for Soroka Hospital
TRAUMA RESPONSE
• Sponsored leadership/resilience training for 210 managers overseeing 2,600+ medical staff
• Provided trauma therapy and support to evacuated teens and young adults at risk
• Donated two therapy horses to Kibbutz Urim
• Funded horseback riding therapy sessions and equipment for hundreds of children, adults
• Established a PTSD recovery home for IDF veterans in Migdal HaEmek
• Sponsored renovations to set up a trauma treatment clinic in a Jerusalem medical center
• Supported the development of virtual reality visors to treat trauma in thousands of youths and others
• Backed social-emotional support program for 40 families in Ramle and Lod
• Offered trauma care to 10 groups of first responders at a specialized therapy farm in Negev
• Sponsored trauma treatments for 340 war victims to increase their mental well-being
• Funded empowerment camp for 40 evacuees
• Provided a trauma treatment trip for reservists to help them integrate back into society
• Renovated 20 homes for disabled soldiers and victims of terror integrate back into society
• Renovated 20 homes for disabled soldiers and victims of terror integrate back into society.
ICEJ-DONATED BOMB SHELTERS
BOMB SHELTERS
• Delivered 28 new cubicle bomb shelters (25 on the northern border, three on the Gaza border)
• Donated 5 new large bomb shelters for the Sha’ar HaNegev Resilience Center, Ayelet HaShahar, and the Haifa Home
• Renovated and repaired 169 underground community shelters in northern and central Israel
OTHER RELIEF AID
• Helped 85 vulnerable families in the South with practical aid and mentoring for small businesses
• Supported programs to rebuild trust between Arabs and Jews and help Arabs find employment
• Sponsored seminars at six schools to build bridges between Arabs and Jews
• Renovated the home of a Sderot widow whose husband was a police officer slain on October 7
• Provided support to the 52 bereaved and injured Druze families in Majdal Sham
HANDS-ON PROJECTS
• Visited wounded soldiers and injured civilians with gift bags
• Packed 15,500 food boxes for evacuee families in need
• Visited and sat shiva (mourned) with evacuated families from Kfar Aza
• Organized pro-Israel rallies and advocacy efforts through ICEJ branch offices worldwide
• Comforted and gave aid baskets to dozens of impacted elderly and disabled people
• Joined volunteers in harvesting fields and orchards for farmers in the South
• Volunteered to drive pregnant Israeli women to the hospital to give birth
• Hosted seven solidarity and hands-on missions to Israel in months after the outbreak of the war
REBUILDING
• Sponsoring a new trauma treatment center for youth in Kfar Aza
• Providing furnishings for rebuilt homes in kibbutz Nir Oz
HAIFA HOME TEAM CARING FOR HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS DURING WAR
BY MARELINKE VAN DER RIET, ICEJ PUBLICATIONS ASSISTANT
Amid the intense conflict in northern Israel, the ICEJ’s Haifa Home for Holocaust Survivors continues to provide vital care and support to its elderly residents—many of whom bear the deep scars of surviving the horrors of previous wars. Recently, a group of ICEJ staff visited the Home to learn how the Survivors are coping during these tense times and to see firsthand how our Christian staff is supporting them.
The night before our visit, red alert sirens echoed throughout Haifa, sending thousands of people rushing into bomb shelters. Hezbollah in Lebanon has launched over 16,000 rockets and armed drones into northern Israel over the past year, with many targeting the large port city of Haifa. These barrages have intensified, with almost daily volleys landing in and around Haifa.
For Haifa Home residents, the sirens warning of incoming rockets are a traumatic reminder of their pasts. Recently, rocket shrapnel even fell near one of our buildings, adding to the constant anxiety felt by the Survivors.
Renate, originally from Germany, shared how the sound of these red alert sirens triggered painful memories of World War II. “I had to take medication to calm down after the sirens last night,” she shared.
Renate was a young child during
the Holocaust and has written several books of poetry to process her feelings and experiences. She described suffering tension headaches for five weeks following the October 7 attacks by Hamas last year. Her body’s response is not surprising—a study by the National Insurance Institute of Israel found that 50 percent of Holocaust Survivors experience PTSD symptoms, even in old age. After spending most of her life in America, Renate moved to Israel, explaining: “I wanted to live out my life on holy ground.”
In Haifa, many older buildings lack bomb shelters. However, the ICEJ took proactive steps earlier this year to ensure Haifa Home residents’ safety, organizing a large safe room just off the dining hall for easy access during meals and community meetings. The Christian Embassy also constructed another safe room in its newest apartment building to provide additional protection.
This new building houses eight Jewish people and two of their children, who take care of their parents and mother. They were evacuated two years ago from the war in Ukraine. In total, 16 residents at the Home fled the conflict there. It is estimated that over 20,000 Jews from Ukraine fled to Israel after the Russian invasion in 2022. The ICEJ team is doing everything possible to ease the minds of these Survivors, who now find
Shrapnel from a missile that narrowly missed the ICEJ Home for Holocaust Survivors
Renate reading an excerpt from her book, I Survived the Holocaust: My Life in Poetry
ICEJ nurse Christine with Zelda, holding the "therapy baby"
themselves amid yet another war.
One such Survivor, Natalya, moved to Israel from Ukraine two years ago, fleeing one war only to find herself in another— this time without any family or friends nearby.
“I could not have done it without you,” she told Yudit, ICEJ’s Deputy AID Director. “You phone me and ask, ‘Are you alright?’ You are like a big hug.”
This simple yet powerful support has been invaluable to residents like Natalya, who feel isolated and fearful in the face of this crisis.
As we were leaving, Natalya showed us the newly constructed bomb shelter and said, “Thank you for helping us feel safe again. We have known too much fear in our lives, but here, we can rest.”
That moment, more than anything, reminded me of why our work with the Survivors is so vital.
The Home currently cares for 50 Holocaust Survivors, the eldest of whom is 102 years old. After the Holocaust, Israel became a primary destination for displaced Jews, and by 1951, over 687,000 Survivors had arrived to rebuild their lives.
Today, approximately 132,826 Holocaust Survivors live in Israel, according to Israel’s Ministry of Welfare and Social Affairs. Many of these Survivors are now facing the trauma of the ongoing war. Of this number, around 2,500 were directly impacted by the October 7 attacks, and approximately 2,000 have been forced to evacuate their homes due to the fighting.
To help the residents of our Haifa Home cope, the ICEJ team has implemented several therapeutic programs. Nancy, the Home’s art therapist, leads art sessions to help the Survivors express their emotions and temporarily escape the harsh realities surrounding them. The art room also doubles as a makeshift bomb shelter, with mattresses placed in front of the windows for protection in case of air raids—
especially for those who cannot move quickly enough to other protected spaces.
The residents also benefit from physical therapy. Sarah, a resident from Romania, had hip surgery and now rarely leaves her apartment, although she fondly recalls her love of travel. Zelda, another resident, is recovering from a broken hip and, with encouragement from Christine, the ICEJ nurse, is slowly regaining her strength. Simcha, the ICEJ physiotherapist, created a “fitness garden” to improve the residents’ mobility. She also brought a “therapy baby” during
our visit—a life-like doll that brought smiles to the residents as they held it.
Earlier this year, the ICEJ donated a new ambulance to serve Holocaust Survivors in the Haifa region, ensuring they have access to timely medical care when needed.
Maria, the Haifa Home’s Hebrew teacher, is helping residents feel more at home by teaching them basic Hebrew. “My greatest desire is to make them love the land,” she said. “I want them to feel at home in Israel.” Maria’s lessons not only teach language but also
foster a deeper connection to the Land.
It is important to remember that the Survivors of the Holocaust played a crucial role in the founding of the State of Israel. Many were among the first waves of refugees arriving after the war and contributed to rebuilding Jewish life in the Land of Israel. Today, these Survivors remain an integral part of Israel’s collective memory, with their stories serving as living testimonies of resilience and survival. For many of these Survivors, living in Israel is not just about physical safety—it is about living in a place where their history is not only acknowledged but celebrated.
Christians around the world play a key part in funding the operations of the ICEJ’s Home for Holocaust Survivors in Haifa. Your contributions help provide essential services, from medical assistance to emotional support, ensuring that the Survivors can live with dignity and safety—even in the face of war.
Natalya (R) speaks with Yudit Setz (L) ICEJ's Deputy AID Director
Nancy, the Haifa Home art therapist, displays the residents’ artwork
ICEJ staff participate in a physiotherapy session at the Haifa Home
Maria (L), the Haifa Home's Hebrew teacher, instructs the residents Hebrew
The ICEJ-donated ambulance
The view from the outside of the ICEJ's newest apartment building, where Natalya also lives
Aliyah to Israel continues at a fast pace despite more than a year of war. More than 30,000 Olim came home to Israel in 2024, a strong year for Aliyah considering Israel’s continuing seven-front war.
Last October, the ICEJ sponsored flights for 100 Olim from France and 100 Russian-speaking Jews from the former Soviet republics. These latest ICEJ-sponsored flights included some 87 Jewish teenagers who are making Aliyah through the SELA program without their parents.
SELA is a unique initiative managed by the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI), which serves as a bridge for students entering university. The program is not just about academics; it is a holistic approach that encompasses various aspects of a student’s life, ensuring they are well-rounded and ready for the next phase.
Key features of the SELA program are academic preparation, cultural immersion, social integration, personal development, and a support system. It is a transformative experience that shapes the future of its participants. As students stand on the threshold of a new academic journey, SELA ensures they step forward with confidence, knowledge, and a deep connection to Israel.
SELA has proven to be a game-changer for many students. By the end of the program, participants not only receive an Israeli identity card but also a sense of belonging and confidence that they are ready for university.
Moreover, the program has had a ripple effect. Ninety percent of the students who participate in SELA end up making Israel their permanent home. The program also has observed that about 60 percent of the students’ parents eventually make Aliyah, further strengthening the bond between the Diaspora (Jewish people living outside the land) and Israel.
Over the past 15 years, the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ) has been instrumental in supporting SELA, as well as the Naale program, which offers Jewish teens from the Diaspora a chance to study in some of Israel’s best high schools. Our support has been multifaceted, from sponsoring Jewish youths to attend summer and winter camps and Aliyah seminars to providing transportation and logistical support.
Maj. Gen. Doron Almog, Chairman of the Jewish Agency, told an audience at the recent Jerusalem Post Aliyah conference that young Jews are taking the lead in a new wave of Aliyah.
“The young generation, the future of the Jewish people, they take responsibility and move forward,” said Almog, drawing parallels to biblical figures like Abraham. He noted that many young immigrants are particularly interested in serving in the IDF and security forces, inspired by Jewish historical figures and tradition.
Almog emphasized how Jewish identity and
ICEJSPONSORED SELA FLIGHTS BRING HOME SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF ZION
BY HOWARD FLOWER ICEJ ALIYAH DIRECTOR
education, rooted in biblical narratives and Israeli history, particularly resonate with younger generations. “The most to be inspired is the young generation—they arrive first,” he observed, highlighting their role as pioneers in contemporary Aliyah.
Drawing from historical precedents, Almog referenced the successful integration of nearly one million Russian Jews who immigrated to Israel in the early 1990s.
“Look what they brought—the contribution of the one million—for business, science, culture, theater, health, for doctors and for politicians,” he said. Their contributions across various sectors demonstrated how Aliyah serves as a “growth engine” for Israel.
Looking ahead, Almog stressed Israel’s need for a new wave of immigration, targeting potentially 18 million Jews worldwide. He emphasized that beyond the immediate response of those arriving to support Israel during current challenges, the country must focus on creating an “attractive atmosphere” and building an “exemplary society.”
This vision includes striving for excellence across all fields while ensuring support for the most vulnerable and creating a balanced and progressive society that can attract future generations of Jewish immigrants.
By supporting our Aliyah fund, you can be part of the prophetic call to bring the Jews back to Israel.
PARTNER WITH US IN 2025
Your Israel Answer
Why We Must Not Be Silent about the Sexual Violence That Happened on October 7
By Dr. Susan Michael, ICEJ USA President
What happened over a year ago, on October 7, 2023, forever altered the lives of Israelis and Jewish people around the world.
Israel was still reeling from the horrific events of that dark day and grappling with the stories surfacing of dark and brutal sexual violence perpetrated on innocents when the world pivoted against them, denying it ever happened. That mantra continues today as the antisemitic, proHamas populace continues to dismiss claims of rape and sexual violence as propaganda.
The silence of women’s rights and human rights organizations is appalling. This despite documentaries like We Will Dance Again, told exclusively from the point of view of those who attended the Nova festival and experienced, saw, and heard women being raped, and Screams before Silence, a film of accounts from released hostages, survivors, and first responders.
Their testimonies are macabre. Yet what happened has received little scrutiny from human rights groups and international organizations. Even leading figures in politics, academia, and media have minimized or denied that they occurred.
Through the Lens of the Holocaust
To wrap our brains around this, we must first consider the Holocaust, which, to this day, many
deny ever happened, or that if it did, it wasn’t as severe as people claim—even though it is the best-documented genocide in history. Both denial of the Holocaust and denial of the sexual violence committed on October 7 are forms of antisemitism.
One activist writer, Anthony Remis, believes we are witnessing the next evolution of Holocaust denialism. He posits that anyone who argues October 7 wasn’t as bad as witnesses claim or that the sexual violence survivors experienced, saw, or heard never happened at all must have a preconceived notion. It likely means they have questionable opinions on the Holocaust that frame their opinions about that “Black Shabbat.”
For deniers to be right, someone must be wrong—and regarding October 7, the facts aren’t on the denier’s side. Karim Khan, the prosecutor for the International Criminal Court (ICC), said three key Hamas leaders bore responsibility for the “rape and other acts of sexual violence as crimes against humanity” that occurred that day. Even the United Nations has presented credible evidence that Hamas militants committed sexual assault during their rampage. These are just two examples.
The
Eighth Front of the War
Sadly, the voices of pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel protestors on college campuses and across social media have been loud. They not only deny
the brutality of the October 7 attack but celebrate it. For the growing number of people who rely on social media for news and education and continually absorb the lies, those lies become their truth. This battle for truth could be considered the “eighth front” of Israel’s already seven-front war against her enemies.
Denying the rape that occurred on October 7 and while the hostages have been captive in Gaza implies that the evidence and eyewitness testimony is fake or made up—even though the perpetrators themselves admitted to it when interrogated on camera after their arrest. A quick YouTube search will affirm this.
What are Christians to do? Do we let these views slide to a place of truth in history?
Conclusion
Hamas weaponized rape as a weapon of war— this is true and unarguable. To call it anything else, or as pro-Palestinians say, “legitimate resistance,” is denial and nothing less and no different than denying the most extensive genocide in history, the Holocaust.
As Christians, we must continue to stand and speak up against these lies and coverups in the name of what is right, good, and true—and not allow what happened on October 7 ever to be called less than what it is: a crime against humanity..
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Calev Myer Israeli Lawyer
Pastor Saleem Shalash Nazareth
Dr. Juergen Buehler ICEJ President
Rev. Dr. Gerald McDermott Scholar and Anglican Priest
