STANDING IN ZION REVIEW
The International Christian Embassy Jerusalem was established in 1980 in recognition of the biblical significance 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 recognise 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 to more than 170 countries, with branch offices in over 90 nations. Our vision is:
* To reach every segment of Israeli society with a Christian testimony of comfort and love, and
* 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 members 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.
WORD FROM JERUSALEM CREDITS
ICEJ President Dr. Jürgen Bühler
Senior VP & Spokesman David Parsons
VP International Affairs Mojmir Kallus
VP Finance David Van der Walt
VP Operations Richard van der Beek
VP AID & Aliyah Nicole Yoder
Managing Editor/Publications Director Laurina Driesse
Staff Writers Nativia Samuelsen, Marelinke van der Riet
Graphic Design/Illustrator Ryan Tsuen
Administration Tobias H
Photography Adobe Stock, Adobe Firefly, Shutterstock, Wikipedia, WordPress, JAFI, AP, Flash90 ICEJ Staff and Branches, Operation Lifeshield
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. All gifts to this ministry are tax-deductible (in countries where this applies). For more information, visit us at www.icej.org
INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN EMBASSY JERUSALEM
P.O. Box 1192, Jerusalem • 9101002, ISRAEL
Support our ministry online at www.icej.org
FROM THE DESK OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
Dear friends,
As we prepared over recent months for our Feast of Tabernacles in midOctober, we knew it would be very different from our past Succot celebrations, given the prolonged war in Israel. The Feast venues would need to be smaller. Our Feast speakers, musicians, volunteers and pilgrims would all have to be persistent in finding flights to Israel. Meanwhile, we designed a special Feast 2024 logo using the signature yellow ribbon of remembrance, knowing we would gather exactly one year after the October 7 mass terror attacks.
Then, two weeks before the Feast opened on 16 October, Iran fired nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel. Suddenly, every American and European airline stopped flying to Israel. How could the Feast go on?
Amazingly, nearly 500 Christians from 55 nations found their way to Jerusalem to take part in our Feast 2024. Many pressed past the warnings of family and friends not to come. Most had to re-arrange flights three or four times due to cancellations, and wound up paying two or three times the price for airline seats. But our Feast pilgrims were incredibly courageous and determined, and we could not be prouder of them.
In fact, the ICEJ’s Feast 2024 was the largest solidarity mission to Israel since the war began last year!
We faced another dilemma, however, as Succot is supposed to be a festival of joy, yet we also wanted to be respectful of the many lost lives in Israel this year and the hostages still held captive in Gaza. Then we read in Nehemiah chapter 8 how Ezra led the returning Jewish exiles in tearful repentance for disobeying the Lord and discarding the Books of Moses, even while Nehemiah also urged them “do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength” ... “and there was very great gladness.” (Nehemiah 8:10, 17) This all happened as they rediscovered the joy of keeping the Feast of Tabernacles. So, we also felt a release at this Feast to both grieve with our Israeli friends and rejoice greatly in the Lord.
All the participants said there was a unique intimacy at this year’s Feast, both with the Lord and with each other, and this extended to the many Israelis we encountered. We were so encouraged by the strong presence of God and the special grace and unity over the entire gathering.
We have come out of the Feast with a sense that the war has finally focused on the real source of violence and instability in the region – Iran – and that Israel is well on its way to victory. As we approach the new year of 2025, our hope and prayer is that peace will soon return and that Christians can again freely visit Israel and strengthen her people.
We also are hoping and praying for the soon return of our President, Dr. Juergen Bühler, from medical leave and ask you to join us in asking the Lord for his complete healing.
Blessings from Zion,
David R. Parsons
Senior Vice President & Spokesman
International Christian Embassy Jerusalem
COVER PHOTO: Feast Pilgrims from over fifty countries gather at the Knesset Menorah across from the Israeli parliament to pray during this year’s Feast of Tabernacles.
FEATURED TEACHING
HEROES & SURVIVORS OF OCTOBER 7
ONE YEAR AFTER OCTOBER 7
ICEJ WAR RELIEF AID IN ISRAEL: ONE YEAR OVERVIEW 6
10-13
16-21 FEAST REVIEW
Illustration of Zerubabbel laying
THE SPIRIT AND 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)
This year’s Feast theme comes from a prophetic utterance by Zechariah in the early days of Israel’s restoration to the Land following the Babylonian exile. As noted in earlier editions of this magazine, 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, authorising 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, 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 of the 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 2:4-5
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, he 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, he had extraordinary visions of current realities as well as future apocalyptic events, often featuring powerful angelic and created beings, along with strange animals or objects representing the spiritual forces at play. In chapter four, Zechariah saw two olive trees pouring oil into a Menorah. In chapter three, he saw Satan making accusations against Joshua the High Priest, as well as the coming “Branch” – the Messiah. In chapter fourteen, he sees this Messiah touching down once more on the Mount of Olives, a moment we all long for and expect to happen very soon.
Back in chapter one, Zechariah saw other unusual beings and events, and I believe they too speak much about our day. The
Illustration of Zerubabbel laying the cornerstone for the Second Temple (WordPress)
Jewish return to their ancestral homeland always seems to follow a pattern, and what was happening then is extremely relevant for Israel and us today.
First, he saw a man on a red horse and other coloured 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 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?”
First of all, it is interesting to note here that angels also pray, even great and powerful ones like the “Angel of the Lord.” And they seem to have a heavy prayer burden for Jerusalem!
Second, it is 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)
It is this last vision that 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 - חָרָשׁ) refers to stone carvers and carpenters, as well as skilled warriors.
This Hebrew word for “craftsmen” (harashחָרָשׁ) 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 make beautiful, ornate Temple instruments can 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 is using these skilled warriors and metal smiths to “terrify” and “cast out” those nations and peoples opposed to the restoration of Israel and Jerusalem 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 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.
How remarkable then to witness Israel’s military and intelligence services performing such stunning feats against Hamas, Hizbullah and Iran over recent months. The Iron Dome, David’s Sling and Arrow III anti-missile 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 Hizbullah operatives was spellbinding. Israel has a top-of-the-line battle tank in the Merkava IV, and the next generation F35 stealth fighter-bombers. One recent media report claimed the Arab world suddenly views Israel as having mythical powers.
Some may say this is because of 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!
Iron Dome interceptions over Ashkelon (AP Photo)
ONE YEAR AFTER OCTOBER 7
ISRAEL RISING FROM ASHES TO RENEWED HOPE
BY DAVID PARSONS, ICEJ SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & SPOKESMAN
Over recent decades, official visitors to Israel felt obliged to make a pilgrimage to Sderot, near Gaza, to view the rusting heaps of Hamas rockets on display behind the town’s police station. Even presidential candidate Barack Obama stood there in 2008, insisting he would never tolerate his daughters living under the constant rocket threat faced by Israelis in the western Negev.
Today, that police station no longer exists. It was overrun by Hamas terrorists during their mass invasion last October 7. As the one-year anniversary of that dark day approached, a new memorial was being hastily erected on the leveled station to honor the 20 heroic police officers who fell defending their city.
Now, visitors are drawn instead to new pilgrimage sites, such as the ‘car graveyard’ near Tekumah, where the crushed remains of 1,500 burned-out vehicles collected from surrounding roadsides after the October 7 massacre are stacked 30 feet high – each rusted frame testifying to the many innocent lives lost that day. A few miles away at the Nova music festival site, a haunting silence still lingers in the place where 364 civilians were slaughtered and 40 taken hostage by Hamas on that “Black Shabbat”.
One year ago, as Israelis rested on the holy day of Simchat Torah, some 6,000 Hamas and Islamic Jihad militiamen breached the Gaza security fence and poured into Israel to murder, maim, and seize hostages. The socalled “al-Aqsa Storm” was more successful than Hamas expected.
OVER 1,200 ISRAELIS WERE KILLED, WHILE 251 WERE ABDUCTED BACK INTO THE TERROR TUNNELS OF GAZA.
Over 1,200 Israelis were killed, while 251 were abducted back into the terror tunnels of Gaza. It took three days for the IDF to secure the border area. The mass atrocities shook all of Israel, leaving everyone terrified of home invasions by armed jihadists and an even larger assault from Hizbullah in Lebanon.
The shocking carnage last October 7 marked the worst pogrom against the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Children were shot in front of their parents, and parents in front of their children. Entire families were burned alive. Women were gang raped. Frail elderly Holocaust survivors were brutally executed. Babies were bludgeoned and beheaded.
As the fighting in Gaza lumbered on, Israel also faced widespread condemnation by world leaders, charges of genocide and war crimes in The Hague, and a global wave of antisemitism on a truly appalling scale. Equally concerning has been the mixed approach of the Biden administration, which provided large shipments of US arms but with deliveries often delayed, while the White House’s repeated criticisms of Israeli moves and calls for a ceasefire seemed to help preserve Hamas as a fighting force and ruler of Gaza.
The resulting death toll was horrific and yet it could have been even worse, as the great secrecy by Hamas over their operation also surprised their ally Hizbullah, which was not ready for all-out war. But by the next day, Hizbullah joined the fray with relentless rocket barrages across the Lebanese border, and other Iranian proxy militias soon followed. This left Israel facing a seven-front war – with the threat of missile, drone and terror attacks emanating from Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Iran itself.
In response to October 7, the IDF immediately carried out its largestever mobilization of 350,000 reservists and evacuated tens of thousands of Israeli civilians from the Gaza and Lebanon borders. These swift actions deterred Hizbullah from invading the Galilee with its elite Radwan forces, and allowed the IDF to concentrate first on destroying Hamas in Gaza and finding the hostages. However, the pace of battle was slowed due to the complexity of tunnel warfare, the presence of the hostages, and the international community’s unprecedented demand that over two million Gazan civilians remain on the battlefield – allowing Hamas to continue using them as human shields.
But perhaps the most troubling aspect of this conflict for Israelis was the failure of the nation’s renowned security services to detect and foil the Hamas invasion plans. An official commission of inquiry has yet to be convened, but it is already clear there were obvious warning signs that were tragically ignored. This was largely due to the prevailing “group think” among senior Israeli political and military leaders that Hamas was deterred from attacking by the IDF’s superior might and the building boom in Gaza.
Thus, October 7 caused Israelis to lose trust in their leaders. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was singled out for allowing Qatar to pour money into Gaza and his reluctance to accept any blame for the brutal Hamas onslaught.
ISRAEL AND ITS ALLIES MANAGED TO SHOOT DOWN 99% OF THE MISSILES AND DRONES.
However, the edginess and doubts among Israelis finally started to turn around, beginning in April.
RESTORED CONFIDENCE AND HOPE
At the time, the IDF had successfully targeted two Iranian generals in Damascus, prompting Tehran to retaliate by launching over 350 ballistic and cruise missiles and armed drones in its first-ever direct attack on Israel. Yet, Israel and its allies managed to shoot down 99% of the missiles and drones. Since then, Israel has found its footing and regained its confidence.
Indeed, over the past six months Israel has managed to carry out incredible feats that have sent its enemies reeling. The costly intelligence failure of October 7 has given way to a series of legendary intelligence successes on par with Israel’s preemptive strikes on the Egyptian air force in June 1967 and the Entebbe rescue mission of July 1976.
This includes eliminating Hamas politburo chief Ismail Haniyeh during a visit to Tehran, and finally catching up to notorious Hamas terrorist Muhammad Deif inside Gaza. The IDF also has taken out Hizbullah’s senior military commander Fuad Shukur, along with
IDF troops inspect burned cars at the Nova festival site. (AP Photo)
its deputy commander Ibrahim Aqil, plus the militia’s rocket chief, drone chief, intelligence chief, finance chief, Radwan force commander, southern front commander, and finally the supreme leader himself, Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah, in his south Beirut bunker.
In other remarkable operations, the Israeli air force recently destroyed thousands of rockets just minutes before they were to be launched into Israel. Elite IDF troops also landed inside Syria and blew up an underground guided-missile factory. Soon after, the Mossad pulled off a spellbinding covert operation involving rigged pagers and walkie-talkies simultaneously exploding in the hands of thousands of Hizbullah operatives all over Lebanon. Just days later, Israel struck a high-priority target list of over 2,000 Hizbullah arms depots and military sites in a mere 48 hours.
And in its latest sensational achievement, Israel’s air defenses disposed of another massive wave of 200 Iranian ballistic missiles – the largest such barrage ever launched at another country.
Taken together, these impressive operations under Netanyahu’s bold leadership have dealt staggering blows to Hizbullah, with its upper command structure and 70% of its rocket arsenal wiped out. Iran’s most
lethal, effective forward threat against Israel is collapsing and hopes are renewed that Lebanon can actually work itself free of Hizbullah’s grip one day. Meanwhile, Hamas has been severely weakened in Gaza and its besieged leader Yahya Sinwar also has been removed from the scene. Iran also is now in Israel’s direct line of fire, and the shadow of fear which its “axis of resistance” cast over the whole region is steadily dissipating.
One year after that dark day of October 7, Israel is settling old scores with radical Islamic terror militias that have the innocent blood of many nations on their hands. They are fighting a just war by moral means and with dazzling precision. Even the Sunni Arab world is cheering Nasrallah’s death and marveling at Israel’s hi-tech wizardry. Alas, there is also renewed hope the region can return to the path of reconciliation via the Abraham Accords.
Still, there are more battles ahead and Israelis will need more time to truly get past the shock of the October 7 massacres. Indeed, the wounds inflicted on Israel that dark Saturday will remain open so long as there are hostages still held in Gaza.
HEROES & SURVIVORS OF OCTOBER 7
BY MARELINKE VAN DER RIET
SAPIR COHEN
Sapir Cohen, a dedicated 29-year-old police officer from Nir Oz, faced unimaginable adversity during the brutal Hamas assault on her kibbutz on October 7 last year. As chaos erupted around her, she displayed remarkable courage and quick thinking, prioritising the safety of others even at great personal risk.
Lebanese view rubble from Israeli airstrike on command bunker of Hizbullah chief Hassan Nasrallah in south Beirut. (AP Photo)
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu recently urged the UN to choose between Iran and the Abraham Accords (AP Photo)
Amid blaring rocket sirens and gunfire all around, she directed her neighbours to safety and relayed critical information to fellow officers. However, Sapir was shot in the leg and severely injured. Yet through the pain, she never abandoned her post and continued shielding other residents. But she was eventually taken hostage by Hamas militants and had to endure 55 days of captivity under harsh conditions in Gaza, until she was released on November 30 as part of a ceasefire deal.
Sapir has since travelled near and far to tell the story of how she survived the ordeal. It turns out she was not very religious, but a few months earlier she had a foreboding sense that danger was just ahead for her. She even went to doctors thinking she had a serious disease. Then someone told her to recite the Book of Psalms to maintain her health, and she learned several by heart, especially Psalm 27. Thus, she was able to pray this particular prayer of David every day while in captivity, and it greatly strengthened her. Sapir credits this new-found faith in God for allowing her to survive and return home.
EDEN NIMRI
Eden Nimri, 22, was captain of an elite allfemale IDF unit as well as a talented swimmer for the Israeli national team. She tragically lost her life on October 7 while fighting against Hamas terrorists at the Nahal Oz military outpost right on the Gaza border.
When the sirens sounded that tragic morning, Eden swiftly led her team to a nearby bomb shelter. As terrorists tried to storm the shelter, she realised she was the only one of her fellow female soldiers who was armed. Thus, Eden positioned herself at the entrance and ordered her comrades to flee through a back entry. She opened fire on the first terrorist to enter but was quickly overwhelmed by several more Hamas militiamen armed with grenades and assault rifles. Yet through her leadership and courage, eleven of her comrades were able to reach another safe location. Eden truly made the ultimate sacrifice to protect her fellow soldiers.
ORI MEGIDISH
Ori Megidish was a 19-year-old female ‘observer’ soldier stationed at the Nahal Oz army base and tasked with monitoring movements along the nearby Gaza border security fence. During the Hamas assault on October 7, she was injured in the head, legs and chest, and then abducted, enduring 23 harrowing days in captivity. But on October 30 last year, she became the first hostage rescued by Israeli forces from Gaza. Her ordeal captured widespread attention and is a testimony to her family’s strong faith in God.
In the days before her rescue, Ori’s family brought a Torah scroll into their home and even into Ori’s bedroom, and fervently prayed for divine intervention. Her mother, in particular, cried out with tears before the
Lord for her daughter’s return. The family’s prayers and act of faith in the God of the Bible was filmed, and this footage later provided evidence that the Lord indeed was answering their pleas. Somehow, Ori managed to escape her captors and make contact with Israeli forces, who located her and brought her to safety in a daring operation in the heart of Gaza City amid intense battles.
ANER SHAPIRA
Aner Elyakim Shapira, 22, was tragically killed during the Hamas-led massacre at the Nova music festival near Kibbutz Re’im on October 7 last year. Aner was an IDF Staff Sergeant in a Nahal Brigade reconnaissance unit, but was off-duty and attending the outdoor music festival with close friends, including soonto-be-hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin. Aner displayed extraordinary courage amid the brutal Hamas assault and managed to save many lives that day.
Though unarmed, Aner became a vital protector for about 30 Israelis who sought refuge in a cramped roadside bomb shelter. When terrorists began throwing grenades into the shelter, Aner bravely caught at least seven live grenades and tossed them back out before succumbing to the eighth. He also had quickly instructed others to continue his efforts should he fall. A survivor of the attack later insisted that Aner “saved our lives” and deserved a medal of honour for being “an angel who guarded us.”
1) Sapir Cohen-Photo by Benjy Stoch-Jewish Report. 2) Eden Nimri-IDF Photo. 3) Ori Megidish with her parents-Wikipedia
4) Aner Shapira with his best friend Hersh Goldberg-Polin-Photo courtesy of the family.
OICEJ WAR RELIEF AID IN ISRAEL: ONE YEAR OVERVIEW
BY ICEJ AID TEAM
n the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah last year, 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 swiftly mobilised to provide urgent relief aid and support to the grieving and traumatised 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
7 OCTOBER
FOOD
• Food and water supplies for first responders at the Gaza border.
• Two delivery trucks to distribute food packages to evacuated and disadvantaged families.
• Cookouts for 820 security and first responder teams.
• 15,500 food boxes packaged in Rishon LeTzion for evacuated families.
• 150 families received food support in Jerusalem and Ma’ale Adumim.
EVACUEES
• Offered respite days to 450 evacuees, including congregation, new immigrants from the South.
• Gave 440 gift vouchers for families from Kfar Aza and Sderot.
• Housed 18 evacuees in a home near Jerusalem, along with food and emergency items.
• Furnished basic needs for evacuated families, including games, mattresses, first aid kits, food.
• Sponsored activities for 1,180 evacuees, some with disabilities.
• Provided therapeutic activities and emotional support, including for residents of Kfar Aza.
• Donated computers for ten 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 to evacuated families in the North.
• Funded printing of 4,000 books to help traumatised evacuees with resilience. (Books printed at Be’eri Printing House to help rehabilitate community.)
• Provided tutoring for orphaned children of Kibbutz Be’eri.
• Donated two ‘gymborees’, indoor playgrounds for children of Kibbutz Alumim and Be’eri.
• Contributed furniture making workshop for 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 activity for evacuees of Nir Yitzchak.
• Renovated ten apartments for elderly evacuees.
• Supplied house-warming gift packages for families of Kibbutz Nir Oz, Be’eri, and Re’im.
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 North.
• Supplied equipment, clothing for first response units, including Druze and lone soldiers.
• Donated eight ATVs with fire-fighting equipment to emergency teams in the North and South.
• Sponsoring a large van for emergency response team in Eshkol region.
• Supplied 400+ special communication devices with chargers, accessories to multiple security teams.
• Gave 46 red alert light and sound systems for kindergartens in Hof Ashkelon.
HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS
• Stocked up 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, medical supplies to 30 Search & Rescue team members.
AND BOOKS FOR EVACUATED
• Gave paramedic kits, defibrillators to 10 medical first-response teams along northern border.
• Donated a military ambulance for Kibbutz Be’eri (with KKL-JNF in Czech Republic).
DONATED EIGHT ATVS WITH FIRE-FIGHTING EQUIPMENT TO EMERGENCY TEAMS IN THE NORTH AND SOUTH. SUPPLIED 12 SCHOOL CLASSROOMS,
• Donated four life-support ambulances (including one for Haifa Home and one for disabled).
• Contributed two medi-cycles to Magen David Adom.
• Supplied 25 paramedic kits, eight smaller medical kits & 21 defibrillators for security officers along northern and southern borders.
• Funded intensive-care bed and stretcher for Soroka Hospital.
TRAUMA RESPONSE
• Sponsored leadership/resilience training to 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 development of virtual reality visors to treat trauma in 1000s of youths, others.
• Backed social-emotional support program for 40 families in Ramle and Lod.
• Offered trauma care to 10 groups of first responders at 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 trauma treatment trip for reservists to help them integrate back into society.
• Renovated 20 homes for disabled soldiers and victims of terror.
BOMB SHELTERS
BOMB SHELTERS
HANDS-ON PROJECTS
• Delivered 28 new cubicle bomb shelters (25 on northern border, three on Gaza border).
• Donated five new large bomb shelters for the Sha’ar HaNegev Resilience Center, Ayelet HaShahar, and 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, mentoring for small businesses.
• Supported programs to rebuild trust between Arabs and Jews, help Arabs find employment.
• Sponsored seminars at six schools to build bridges between Arabs and Jews.
• Renovated the home of the widow of Sderot police officer slain on October 7.
• Provided support to the 52 bereaved and injured Druze families in Majdal Shams.
• Visited wounded soldiers and injured civilians with gift bags.
• Packed 15,500 food boxes for evacuee families in need.
• Visited and sat shiva with evacuated families from Kfar Aza.
• Organised pro-Israel rallies and advocacy efforts through ICEJ branch offices worldwide.
• ICEJ Homecare comforted and gave aid baskets to dozens of impacted elderly and disabled.
• Joined volunteers in harvesting in 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 outbreak of war.
REBUILDING
• Sponsoring new trauma treatment center for youth in Kfar Aza.
A TIME TO REBUILD
BY NICOLE YODER, ICEJ VICE PRESIDENT FOR AID & ALIYAH
Ayear has passed since the brutal Hamas pogrom against Israel on October 7 reminded us just how fragile life can be. In the days following, thousands of Israelis were evacuated from their devastated communities. That immense tragedy has changed Israel forever.
“October 7 forced our community to leave the kibbutz for the first time since it was established in 1946,” explained a recent update from Kibbutz Be’eri. “We were evacuees in our own land, forced to process the pain, despair and anguish of that tragic day. Yet despite it all, it did not break our spirit. Today, we are determined to return to our homes, to rebuild what was destroyed, replant the fields set ablaze, and leave a flourishing kibbutz to our future generations.”
A recent bulletin from nearby Kfar Aza said their community was “built with the sweat of their brow, and with tears, love and laughter into a flourishing green village full of life and the joy of children.” Since their emergency evacuation on October 8, it has taken a long while, but they have now gathered the strength to dream about going back home for good.
Unfortunately, the war is not over yet, and many Israelis feel it will not end until all the hostages return home. Still, we have been inspired by the selflessness, bravery and generosity of Israelis from all walks of life. And among the Gaza border communities, we have encountered their incredible resilience and hope, and their strength and determination to return and rebuild.
“We thought our grandparents’ original mission to establish the eleven settlements on the Gaza periphery was completed, but it
turns out we are only halfway there,” noted Ben Sochman, manager of Be’eri printing press. “Apparently, the entire Zionist story has yet to be finished. Now is our time to decide who we are… Will our names appear in the history books in 50 years as the second generation of founders? This is not an easy decision.”
“We are the generation of Netflix and espresso. It’s not easy to return from bourgeois life to the battlefield,” he added. “Each one will choose who they are and where they are going. Here in Kibbutz Be’eri, we do not intend to give up the land our grandparents bequeathed to us. We intend to turn this great fracture into a story of resurgence.”
At the ICEJ, we also intend to do our part! We have been walking alongside the communities of the western Negev for decades by providing bomb shelters and fire-fighting equipment, and over the past year by supplying emergency aid, trauma care, special radio devices, ambulances and ATVs, educational equipment, and activities for children.
Now a shift is underway as these evacuated communities are moving into temporary housing in host villages closer to home. The goal is to keep the kibbutz members together while their homes are rebuilt, with the hope of completing their return by 2026.
This presents a big challenge, as the war in Gaza continues though at a lower intensity. Attention is now turning to the North, and Iran, allowing the rebuilding and renewal process in the western Negev to get underway.
The Christian Embassy is privileged to be a part of this ongoing story. While government
funding will provide basic aid, large gaps are evident. The ICEJ is currently in discussions with several area kibbutzim to help bridge those gaps by rebuilding public facilities to meet recovery needs for the most vulnerable, such as activity centers for the elderly, children and young adults.
The goal is not simply to restore these communities back to where they were on October 6, 2023. Rather, they are also looking to the future. These battered communities must rebuild trust so that their people can come home, and hopefully new families will join them. Meanwhile, trauma care will be a central need for years to come.
The prophet Isaiah foresaw a day when “the sons of foreigners shall build up your walls.” (Isaiah 60:10) Your gift towards rebuilding the destroyed Gaza border communities lets Israelis know they are not alone, enables their dreams of return to come true, and allows you to fulfil Bible prophecy. So, please help with this process of rebuilding and renewal.
ICEJ Vice President of AID & Aliyah Nicole Yoder at the ground-breaking ceremony to rebuild Kibbutz Be’eri.
Renderings illustrate the future of a rebuilt Kibbutz Be’eri.
CHRISTIANS SHOW GLOBAL SOLIDARITY ONE YEAR AFTER OCTOBER 7 MASSACRES
BY MARELINKE VAN DER RIET
On the one-year anniversary of the October 7 massacres, Christian supporters of Israel around the world gathered to stand in solidarity with the Jewish nation and people. During these memorial events, many of them led by national branches of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ), Christians joined with Jews to express their firm commitment to aligning with Israel as it continues to recover from the devastating terror attacks carried out by Hamas. In city after city, the worldwide Christian and Jewish communities united in remembrance and prayer for the victims of this immense tragedy and their surviving families.
In Manila, the ICEJ-Philippines team lead by Pastor Steve Mirpuri organised a powerful solidarity event that drew around 2,500 participants, including Christian and Jewish clergy and community leaders, for a significant moment of unity. Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Ilan Fluss, gave a heartfelt message of gratitude and hope. A member of the Jewish community led a Shema prayer, while the president of the Jewish Association of the Philippines expressed his appreciation for Christian support. A prominent bishop, who is also a congressman, delivered a resounding message calling for Filipino churches to stand as one with Israel.
One of the most poignant moments came when Camille Jesalva, a 31-year-old Filipino caregiver, shared her harrowing experience during the October 7 massacres. Jesalva was taking care of 95-year-old Holocaust survivor Nitza Hefetz in Kibbutz Nirim, near the Gaza border, when Hamas militants attacked. Seeking refuge in a bomb shelter, the two were confronted by an armed militiaman who broke
into the shelter. In a quick act of bravery, Jesalva pleaded for their lives and handed over her savings and smartphone, asking only to keep her passport and documents. The militant took the money but left them unharmed. Jesalva’s courage and decision to stay in Israel to continue caring for Hefetz despite the trauma earned her deep admiration, particularly from Israelis.
ICEJ-Philippines organised a powerful solidarity event called United in Light.
The ICEJ-led event was a collaboration of ten Christian organisations and marked the first time leading members of the nation’s Jewish community attended a Christian event. They described the gathering as “fantastic” and deeply emotional, highlighting the growing solidarity between Christians and Jews in the island nation.
In Washington, D.C., the first anniversary of the October 7 massacres was marked by a significant pro-Israel interfaith gathering on the National Mall, led by The Philos Project with participation by ICEJ-USA and our affiliated American Christian Leaders for Israel (ACLI). The event, overseen by Philos executive director Luke Moon, drew around 60 organisations from diverse backgrounds. The focus was to demonstrate unity across cultural and religious lines, especially in the face of rising antisemitism.
Dr. Susan Michael, national director for ICEJ-USA, opened
the rally by emphasizing the global Christian commitment to Israel. She highlighted that the Christian Embassy in Jerusalem is the world’s largest Christian Zionist organization, with followers in over 170 nations. Troy Miller, president of the National Religious Broadcasters, also reassured the Jewish community that Christian media would continue to share their stories, countering the often one-sided narratives in mainstream media.
A notable moment was the speech by Senator JD Vance, the Republican vice-presidential nominee. Vance condemned pro-Hamas protests on American college campuses and emphasized that Israel’s fight against Hamas must end with the return of the Israeli hostages and the complete defeat of the militant group. “The best way to end the war, and I believe the only way to end the war, is if Hamas would let the hostages go,” Vance insisted. He added that Hamas started the war on October 7, but “Israel is going to finish it.”
The event also included a procession to the White House, where participants displayed photos of victims of the October 7 atrocities and hostages still held by Hamas, making a powerful statement of awareness and solidarity.
“I left so inspired after today’s rally,” reflected Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz of Congregation Kehilath. “It was truly a light of hope on such a difficult day. Thank you for your friendship and fellowship.”
ICEJ-USA joins The Philos Project at a proIsrael interfaith gathering on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
EUROPE
ICEJ branches throughout Europe hosted similar events to commemorate the victims of the October 7 massacres and express solidarity with Israel. In Latvia, an event at a Christian congregation in Riga was held in partnership with the Israeli Embassy. Tal Solomon, the sister of Hilly Solomon, who was murdered in the attacks, shared her grief. Despite the heavy loss, Tal found comfort in the outpouring of love from the Christian community. “We witnessed God’s comforting hand upon her and tears of hope as we sang Aaron’s blessing upon her family,” said one attendee. Tal keeps her sister’s legacy alive by traveling and sharing her story.
In Latvia, an event at a Christian congregation in Riga was held in partnership with the Israeli Embassy.
ICEJ-Slovakia organised two events in the capital of Bratislava.
In Slovakia, ICEJ organised two events in the capital of Bratislava. A public ceremony at the city’s Holocaust Memorial was attended by around 250 people, including the Archbishop of the Catholic Church, who expressed his solidarity with Israel. The ceremony featured the reading of the names of the 101 hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza. Later, a closed event, held in cooperation with the Israeli Embassy, brought together government officials and the diplomatic corps in a remembrance ceremony. Peter Svec, national director of ICEJ-Slovakia, was the keynote speaker and represented the Christian community in Slovakia.
Meanwhile, at the main synagogue in Milan, a delegation from ICEJ-Italy attended a remembrance event along with many political leaders, journalists, and other public figures. More than 500 people had to remain outside because there was no room for them inside.
Meanwhile, in Prague and many other cities in the Czech Republic, church bells rang in unison at 7 PM on October 7 in commemoration of the massacre victims. And in Ireland, the local ICEJ team under Paul Coulter were part of a memorial gathering in Dublin.
A memorial gathering takes place in Ireland to commemorate the October 7 massacres.
THAILAND AUSTRALIA
In Thailand, a commemoration service held at the Israeli Embassy drew 350 Christians. The worship pastor led the crowd in singing Psalm 23, creating a powerful atmosphere of peace and comfort. The event was attended by over 700 people, including many ICEJThailand supporters, and exemplified the sense of family and unity that has emerged globally in support of Israel.
ICEJ-Thailand representatives at a commemoration service held at the Israeli Embassy.
The ICEJ-Australia team, together with a busload of supporters, gathered in Canberra for the October 7th commemoration event. This was followed by a private gathering hosted by the Israeli Ambassador at his residence, attended by the Foreign Minister, former prime minister, and many dignitaries. And in Brisbane, the ICEJ national youth ambassador, Pastor Moises, hosted a beautiful remembrance service.
A YEAR OF REMEMBRANCE AND RESOLVE
The global response to the anniversary of the October 7 massacre serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds between Israel and its Christian friends. From the Philippines to the U.S., and from Europe to Asia, these solidarity gatherings reinforced the message that Israel is not alone in its fight for security and peace. As the world continues to witness the resilience of the Israeli people, we also hope for a future of peace, where the memory of those who fell on October 7 is properly honoured. These remembrance ceremonies also highlight the importance of standing together against radical Islamist terror.
DESPITE WAR, ICEJ HOSTS HUNDREDS OF CHRISTIANS AT MEMORABLE
BY LAURINA DRIESSE AND MARELINKE VAN DER RIET
Despite an entire year of war and widespread flight bans, nearly 500 Christians from 55 nations found their way to Jerusalem to take part in our Feast of Tabernacles 2024 from 16-23 October. They were undeterred by the warnings of family and friends not to come. They kept rearranging flights many times over to find a way in, and many ended up paying double the price or more for airline seats. Yet our Feast pilgrims showed amazing courage and determination, and they all deserve medals for coming.
In the end, because of their faith and perseverance, the ICEJ’s Feast 2024 was the largest solidarity mission to Israel since the war began last year!
The largest groups this year came from Germany (80+), South Africa (30), UK (21) and US (21), plus another 50 nations – including Iran, Malaysia, Indonesia and other countries that have no relations with Israel. Many pilgrims have been part of our daily Global Prayer Gathering for the past year and answered the call to come pray before the Lord here in this nation (Zechariah 8:20-22).
VISITING THE FRONTLINES
The Feast opened with a tour of the Gaza border area and a special remembrance ceremony at HaBsor National Park to honour the 1,200 Israelis who fell and 250 who were taken hostage during the Hamas mass terror attack in this area on October 7 one year ago. The Christian visitors heard first-hand accounts from local community leaders and security officers about the tragic events on Simchat Torah last year. They also visited key sites connected to the Hamas atrocities, including the Nova music festival site, Kibbutz Be’eri, and the ‘car graveyard’, to
gain their own impressions on what took place there.
The pilgrims heard emotional testimonies from ordinary people who suddenly turned into heroes on that ‘Black Shabbat’ last year. Eshkol regional security chief Ilan Isaacson recounted how he was so overwhelmed by the terrorist onslaught that he could not leave to help his own frightened daughter at their kibbutz several miles away. He added that special radio devices donated by the Christian Embassy were the only reliable means of communicating among security teams in the region and thus they helped save many, many lives that day.
“My family, even my children wanted to stop me, but I said ‘no, I’m going’”, said Litiana from Fiji. “We wanted to be here to support and comfort the Jewish people… like the verse in Isaiah 40 says.”
“Getting to Israel wasn’t the difficult part; explaining to my family and friends why I’m coming was”, explained Estelle from South Africa. “My son even arranged insurance for me before I left. But since 1990, I’ve come every year. Israel is my home.”
her mother was killed moments later, but her 85-year-old father Alex somehow survived. As he sat in the audience surrounded by some 400 Christians from around the world, Alex was overcome with tears of relief that people care for him and his community. “People like you are the angels who help us”, concluded his daughter Nicole.
“Coming here to connect with the real, personal stories was impactful”, said Denise from South Africa, who regularly attends the GPG online. “Being a mother, what really touched my heart was hearing how mothers had children huddled together and were having to comfort and console them.”
Carbone embraces her father after a heart-felt message to the Feast delegates.
Nicole Carbone then described how she was on the phone with her mother in Kibbutz Be’eri as it was being overrun by terrorists. Tragically,
“It means more to the Jewish people to come here in the middle of a war than to come when it is just fine”, said Guy from the US,
Nicole
Denise from South Africa Guy from USA
Feast delegates at HaBsor National Park.
who has been to several Feasts. “I cannot even imagine having neighbours and friends being killed or abducted.”
The remembrance ceremony ended with Feast pilgrims placing hundreds of red and yellow tulip bulbs in pots in memory of the fallen and abducted during the brutal Hamas pogrom. In partnership with KKL-JNF, the ICEJ will soon replant the tulip bulbs at the new Nova memorial site so they can blossom in the shape of a red heart and yellow ribbon later this winter (see image).
Feast pilgrims place tulip bulbs into pots at HaBsor on Day one of the Feast of Tabernacles.
DESERT ENCOUNTER
That evening, the Feast delegates gathered at Kfar HaNokdim, an oasis resort in the Judean Desert, where revivalist Suzette Hattingh encouraged the pilgrims to believe for God to touch their lives and also to deliver Israel in new and incredible ways not seen before, citing 1 Corinthians 2:9.
“You are here because God Almighty has an appointment with you”, Hattingh proclaimed. “You were sent with a purpose. God has brought you here like a Gideon’s Army.”
Illustration of the Tulip Planting project.
Opening night at Kfar HaNokdim in the Judean Desert.
NORTHWORSHIP with Emanuel Roro lead the opening night of worship at Kfar HaNokdim.
“YOU ARE HERE BECAUSE GOD ALMIGHTY HAS AN APPOINTMENT WITH YOU”, HATTINGH PROCLAIMED. “YOU WERE SENT WITH A PURPOSE. GOD HAS BROUGHT YOU HERE LIKE A GIDEON’S ARMY.”
- Suzette Hattingh -
Norwegian music NORTHWORSHIP.team
“WE
WILL NEVER FORGET ALL YOUR EFFORTS AND HUMANITARIAN AID OVER THE PAST YEAR”, HE SAID. “THE STATE OF ISRAEL SEES YOU AS TRUE FRIENDS AND ALLIES.”
- Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz -
OPENING NIGHT IN JERUSALEM
The Feast then moved up to Jerusalem for the opening night in the Pavilion, where the stage was adorned with succahs and palm branches, while attendees waved their flags from many nations in a show of support for Israel. The celebration kicked off with a performance by Shamayim (“heaven” in Hebrew), a delightful worship band and choir from Estonia consisting of three generations— grandparents, parents, and children. The Norwegian music team NORTHWORSHIP, led by new ICEJ Arise director Marius Wigardt, also led the gathering in a special time of worship.
Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz delivered a video greeting to welcome the pilgrims and thank the ICEJ for all its relief aid during the prolonged conflict. “We will never forget all your efforts and humanitarian aid over the past year”, he said. “The State of Israel sees you as true friends and allies.”
In his keynote message for the evening, ICEJ Senior Vice President David Parsons first expressed how proud he was of everyone who came to the Feast this year. Just moments before, news broke that Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, mastermind of the October 7 massacres, had been eliminated by the IDF. Rather than celebrating his death, however, Parsons asked the gathering to stand for a moment of silence in honour of the many Israeli victims of his cruelty.
Parsons then focused on this year’s Feast theme from Zechariah 4:6 – “‘Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit’, says the Lord.” He noted the pattern for Israel’s restoration – even for today – which was set forth in the books of Ezra, Nehemiah and Zechariah. He also explained that Zechariah saw kingdoms and powers as “horns” trying to uproot and scatter the Jews, but the Spirit of the Lord sent the antidote in the form of “craftsmen”, meaning both skilled artisans and skilled warriors, to help Israel reclaim the land, build the house of the Lord, and restore right relationship with God (Zechariah 1:18-21; see Bible Teaching, pages 4-5).
TEACHINGS AND BRIEFINGS
The next morning saw the start of the Feast seminars, which this year featured excellent Bible teachings, as well as current affairs briefings by Israeli experts, such as former IDF spokesman Lt Col (ret) Jonathan Conricus, Israeli law professor Avi Bell, and geo-political analyst Dr Dan Diker of the JCSFA. One memorable session involved the personal testimony of Ido Shamriz from kibbutz Kfar Aza, who fought off terrorists for hours in his community on October 7. However, his brother Alon was abducted into Gaza, where he managed to escape weeks later only to fall in a tragic ‘friendly fire’ incident with nearby Israeli troops. Ido’s very personal account of bravery and loss left a deep impact on everyone.
Estonian worship band and choir Shamayim.
Ido Shamriz
David Parsons
The next day, pilgrims entered the serene Garden Tomb for a moving Communion service. The Sakhnini Brothers, an Arab Christian family of gifted musicians from Nazareth, led a beautiful time of worship, while Israeli pastor Peter Tsukahira delivered a powerful message on Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead in John 11. This was followed by a local Jewish and an Arab believer overseeing the Lord’s Supper, providing an uplifting moment of reconciliation in Messiah amid the current war.
“This was the best Garden Tomb service ever”, insisted Jo from South Africa. “The message was both brilliant and challenging, and the sharing of Communion by the ‘One New Man’ was emotional and sincere.”
ONE BODY OF MESSIAH YOUTH NIGHT
DTaking
ay Four of the Feast featured a stirring Next Generation night back at the Pavilion in central Jerusalem, drawing together many Israeli youths alongside the Feast delegates. The atmosphere was charged as the popular Israeli band SOLU-Israel led everyone in Hebraic-style worship. SOLU leader Shilo Ben Hod was joined on stage by IDF soldier and TBN presenter Yair Pinto, who shared his experiences of both fighting and reporting in Gaza since October 7.
Marius Wigardt and NORTHWORSHIP then followed up with a rousing worship set and time of sharing from the Word. “When you experience the presence of God in the Land of Israel, it changes you,” he said.
“I’m very excited about tonight. From generation to generation, we must keep the faith”, responded Kristelle from Australia, who did not tell her family she was coming to Israel until after she arrived.
communion together at the Garden Tomb.
Arab pastor Saleem Shalash and ICEJ VP Richard van der Beek embrace after taking communion.
IDF soldier and TBN Director of Operations speaks at Youth Night.
Sakhnini Brothers
Peter Tsukahira
‘ROLL CALL’ IN REGAL SETTING
As night fell on Day Five, the Tower of David provided a most regal setting for the colourful “Roll Call of the Nations”, which was combined this year with the traditional Israeli Guest Night. The outdoor amphitheatre was filled to capacity with over 700 Jews and Christians, with the majestic walls of the Old City serving as a stunning backdrop for the flag procession representing the more than 50 nations attending this year’s Feast.
Among the beaming flag-bearers was Annerie Maré from Namibia, a former Miss World contestant. “It was a very big moment”, she said afterwards. “I represented my country in a new way, on a different stage. It was like an Esther moment—standing in the gap for my country.”
The program also included a video greeting from Israeli President Isaac Herzog, who extended a warm holiday welcome to the Christian visitors and expressed his deep gratitude for their unwavering support of Israel at its darkest hour.
Nir Barkat, a senior Israeli cabinet minister, also addressed the gathering in person. “I
ICEJ Senior Vice President David Parsons addresses the delegation at the Israeli Guest night.
think the ICEJ is one of the secrets of Israel’s success. I am here to salute you,” he said.
Another highlight was the warm remarks by legendary Israeli general Doron Almog, the new chairman of The Jewish Agency for Israel, which oversees Aliyah to the Jewish homeland. He thanked the participants for coming to Israel at such a turbulent time, when the country is fighting for its very existence, adding: “What brought you here at this time is your passionate love for Israel. You are our partners, our friends – and we love you.”
The evening also featured stirring musical performances by violinist Serguei Popov, singer Vesna Bühler, and the Estonian choir Shamayim. In addition, the interfaith gathering enjoyed several Israeli folk songs performed by the Israeli choir Or Lamishpachot (“Light for the Families”), whose members are bereaved family members whose loved ones fell while serving in the IDF.
ICEJ Senior Vice President David Parsons concluded the evening with a moving message regarding the sincere motivations of Christians who support Israel. “Just as there is a mystery to why many are obsessed
with hatred towards the Jewish people, there is also a mystery to the love we have for you as Christians”, he explained to the hundreds of Israeli guests on hand. “We see the deep wounds the Jewish people have suffered down through the ages, often in the name of Jesus. We see what was inflicted on you so wrongly on October 7, and it draws forth from within us a profound love which compels us to stand by your side. And Isaiah, your own prophet, assured you that you can trust this love,” he said, citing Isaiah 49:22-23.
The entire evening was marked by a palpable spirit of intimacy, unity and grace, which was readily received by our Israeli guests after the past year of isolation and loss.
“It filled my heart with joy that you understand what happened with Israel”, said Zachi, an Israeli attendee. “It’s as if you’ve experienced everything with us—like it happened to you. It was very heartwarming to see. Before coming, I didn’t know what to expect, but when I arrived, it felt like we were one.”
“I
REPRESENTED MY COUNTRY IN A NEW WAY, ON A DIFFERENT STAGE.
IT
WAS LIKE AN ESTHER MOMENT—STANDING IN THE GAP FOR MY COUNTRY.”
- Annerie Maré from Namibia -
Flag-bearers stand in solidarity representing their nations.
Juha Ketola
Israeli folk songs performed by the Israeli choir Or Lamishpachot (“Light for the Families”).
Israeli Guests at the Tower of David in Jerusalem.
The Jerusalem March.
A SPECIAL JERUSALEM MARCH
The following afternoon, our delegates gathered for the ever-popular Jerusalem March. Although the traditional afternoon segment of the Jerusalem March had been cancelled due to war restrictions, the city of Jerusalem invited our Christian pilgrims to march around Sacher Park with their national flags and engage with the thousands of Israelis gathered there for the usual Sukkot holiday activities. The atmosphere was festive, with national flags and banners flying high and songs filling the air in the packed park in central Jerusalem.
One Christian in the march stood out –Farnoosh Mazarei, a native of Iran who now resides in America. Israelis saw her carrying the former Iranian republic’s flag and ran to meet her, while Israel’s largest daily newspaper carried a feature article on her visit and life story.
“I feel blessed that the Lord used me to represent my nation and to come and bless Israel”, she said. “I pray that my coming here by faith was pleasing to Him and that our prayers will start a revival in Iran.”
“During the march, all I heard was, ‘Thank you for coming, thank you, thank you’”, added Linel from South Africa. “So many locals were in tears… One woman gave me a very sweet letter from her little brother thanking us for coming.”
The Jerusalem March ended at the Knesset Menorah, outside Israel’s parliament building, for a special time of prayer. It proved to be another highlight for the Feast attendees, as they stood near the seat of government and prayed earnestly for the nation’s leaders to have wisdom in securing victory for their country in the current war.
The Jerusalem March procession through Sacher Park.
FINAL DAYS
The last two days of the Feast included a bus tour to engage in handson volunteer projects, a healing service conducted by Finnish evangelist Juha Ketola, the ICEJ’s former international director, a day of prayer with local and international pastors and ministry leaders, and a closing worship concert with SOLU-Israel once again. Rev. Suzette Hattingh was especially
powerful in her closing teaching on prayer and intercession birthed by the Holy Spirit.
This year’s Feast may have been smaller in size than usual, but it was greater in impact in many ways. This will always be the Feast marked by the yellow ribbon of remembrance – an intimate time of worship in the Spirit, fellowship with the saints, and friendship with the still recovering people of Israel.
SOLU-Israel closes the Feast 2024 with a special concert.
Farnoosh from USA (Iran)
Linel from South Africa
ICEJ SPONSORS MORE ALIYAH FLIGHTS FOR JEWISH YOUTHS
BY MARELINKE VAN DER RIET
Despite the ongoing war in Israel, the Christian Embassy is still helping to bring Jews back to their ancient homeland. In September, for example, the ICEJ sponsored two group flights with 42 Jewish high school students from Ukraine and Moldova who came to study in Israel as a step towards making Aliyah.
The Jewish Agency for Israel had initially expected around 20 students, but thanks to a second ICEJ-sponsored flight under the Naale program, the total number of new arrivals more than doubled.
“Unbelievably, a second group of Naale Youth Aliyah teens just arrived from war-torn Ukraine to their homeland of Israel,” remarked Danielle Mor of the Jewish Agency. “Despite the ongoing conflict and recent escalations here, these teens and their families remained resolute in their decision to come home.”
These 14 to 15-year-olds arrived without their parents, participating in a Youth Aliyah program that began in 1992 in St. Petersburg, Russia.
Yet a third group of Youth Aliyah students is slated to arrive soon, and the Jewish Agency has once again called on the Christian Embassy to assist with their journey. These are older teens who are participating in the SELA program, designed to help Jews from ages 17 to 21 to make Aliyah, study at Israeli universities, and integrate better into the local society.
For these teens, the SELA journey represents more than an escape from difficult circumstances – it is a return to their ancestral homeland, where they will now build a new future.
The SELA program provides them with a structured, supportive pathway to integrate into Israel. In its first phase, participants study Hebrew and Israeli culture, preparing for either higher academic
studies or military service. After six months, they transition to full immigrant status and begin the formal Aliyah process.
Leaving their homes was not an easy decision, as for many it meant parting from loved ones. Yet, these young people have found hope in the promise of a better future in Israel.
The ICEJ has played a vital role in supporting these teens throughout their Aliyah journey. From assisting with visas and testing to providing logistical support, the ICEJ ensures that these young Jews have the resources they need as they transition to life in Israel. This assistance is especially crucial for those who have experienced the trauma of conflict.
As Israel faces its own challenges, these new arrivals embody the enduring spirit of hope and renewal. They serve as a reminder that, even in the darkest times, the Jewish people continue to return, rebuild and thrive. And they will have much to contribute to Israeli society, whether through education, military service, or career development, helping to shape the future of the nation.
Since 2005, the ICEJ has been supporting Jewish students in the Naale program from western Russia and more recently from Belarus and the Baltic states, covering flights, pre-Aliyah logistics, testing, airport transfers, and summer camps.
Despite such challenges as the COVID pandemic and the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, the ICEJ has assisted over 46,000 Ukrainian Jews to make the journey home to Israel since the 1990s. In total, the Christian Embassy has now helped almost 190,000 Jews to immigrate to Israel since our founding in 1980.
Please make your best gift today to help more Jewish students and their families realise their dreams of reaching Israel. Together, we can offer them a future of greater opportunity and hope.
Ukrainian Jewish youths in front of Chisinau Airport. (JAFI)
Students wearing their Naale shirts. (JAFI)
Ukrainian teens arrive at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. (JAFI)
