International volunteers are in Israel, aiding in tasks from farming to meal prep for soldiers, amid the conflict. Evangelical faith-based groups, including Christians, are spearheading these efforts. Initiatives like Citrus & Salt have adapted to provide support, highlighting a global solidarity movement.
Unwavering Support
For years, evangelical Christians have stood as some of Israel’s most steadfast allies, particularly in the U.S., where their influence has notably shaped policies. Their support is deeply rooted in a belief that Israel’s significance in biblical prophecy heralds the return of the Christian Messiah.
Religious ‘Volun-tourism’ Rises
The trend of religious “volun-tourism” in Israel is gaining momentum, with organized trips that blend faith with volunteer work in response to the Gaza conflict.
The war has significantly transformed the landscape of tourism in Israel. The Tourism Ministry now reports that faith-based volunteers make up a significant portion of the daily arrivals in March, a stark contrast to pre-conflict visitor statistics.
A Community United
In the wake of the conflict, nearly half of the Israeli population volunteered in some capacity, showing a remarkable national spirit. As local volunteers gradually resume their everyday lives, international visitors like Landis are stepping in to fill the void, exemplifying global solidarity in action.
Election Year Zeal
In a presidential election year within the U.S., evangelical Christians amplify their support for Israel, pushing Republicans to adopt stances that not only align with traditional political support but also with biblical convictions. Their vocal support for Israel, especially during conflicts, underscores the intertwining of faith and politics.
The Conflict Escalates
The confrontation escalated following a Hamas attack in southern Israel, leading to significant casualties and a hostage crisis. Israel’s subsequent military response in the Gaza Strip has resulted in a tragic loss of life, highlighting the intense and deadly nature of the conflict.
Evangelical Solidarity
In a striking display of solidarity, leading evangelicals, under the auspices of the Southern Baptist Convention’s public policy wing, have publicly declared their support for Israel. Their collective voice represents a significant faction of U.S. evangelicalism, rallying behind Israel in its time of crisis.
Christian Support Networks
Christians United for Israel, spearheaded by Pastor John Hagee, has been instrumental in mobilizing support and resources for Israel. With over $3 million raised to aid those affected by the conflict, CUFI stands as a testament to the evangelical community’s commitment to Israel.
Volunteerism and Faith
The International Christian Embassy Jerusalem plays a pivotal role in coordinating volunteer efforts, bringing Christians worldwide to support Israel in person. Their initiative is a vivid example of faith in action, as volunteers like Shawn Landis and Claudio Pichardo seek to make a tangible difference, beyond the realms of social media advocacy.
Aviation and Faith
The outbreak of war led to an immediate halt in international travel to Israel, with airlines suspending flights and tourism virtually ceasing, save for a few solidarity missions by Jewish and Christian groups. However, the skies are opening up again, as major airlines resume operations, hinting at a slow revival of travel to Israel.
A Cry for Aid
As the conflict reaches its sixth month, the international community calls for Israel to intensify efforts to alleviate civilian suffering in Gaza. The dire situation has displaced a vast majority, with a significant portion of the population facing severe food shortages, and hospitals reporting heartbreaking fatalities due to malnutrition.
The Fear of Being Forgotten
The fear that the international community has moved on from the horrors of Oct. 7 looms large among Israelis. Elizabeth Ødegaard from Norway captures the sentiment of many Israelis, expressing a profound emotional connection and solidarity with Israel, countering the narrative of isolation with a message of shared faith and destiny.
Visits That Resonate
Participants of the ICEJ trips have made poignant visits to the most affected areas in southern Israel, confronting the aftermath of the conflict firsthand. These visits, especially to places like the remnants of the Tribe of Nova music festival tragedy, underscore the resilience of the Israeli spirit, leaving lasting impressions on the hearts of those who come to show their support.
Volunteer Impact
Amid the chaos of conflict, international visitors have turned into vital volunteers, aiding Israeli communities deeply affected by the ongoing war. From helping farmers with their crops to preparing meals for families with a parent on reserve duty, these volunteers are the extra hands making a tangible difference during challenging times.
Culinary Solidarity
In the heart of Tel Aviv, Christian volunteers take a moment from their religious “volun-tourism” to prepare meals for Israeli soldiers taking a brief break from combat. This act of service is a key component of their journey, underlining the profound impact of faith-based volunteerism on Israel’s social fabric during the war.
