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The Chief Rabbi, The Metropolitan Bishop of the Orthodox Church and the King of Bulgaria become surprising allies in the race to rescue Bulgaria’s Jewish population from deportation orders that will lead to certain destruction in Hitler’s death camps. Add to the mix, a mysterious vision that compels a respected Rabbi to declare that Yeshua (Jesus) is the promised Messiah which many years later leads him to save the life of a young mother and a legacy of multiple generations of Jewish followers of Yeshua. This is a new book by Avi Mizrachi that weaves the story of his own family’s journey from Bulgaria, to Israel and ultimately to faith in Yeshua with the incredible and relatively unknown history of Rabbi Daniel Zion and his legacy. The book has been meticulously researched and is a highly recommended read. During the 8 years of researching the details of this book, which included interviewing relatives of Rabbi Daniel and even an audience with the current King of Bulgaria, Avi’s daughter Devorah worked on a Hebrew version that documented the life of Rabbi Daniel Zion, his heroism and his faith in Yeshua the Messiah. This book is now available in Israel for future generations to study and discover. She remembers her grandparents talking about Rabbi Daniel with great affection and she wanted Israeli society to know about what he did before the story became lost forever. The official book launch recently took place in Jerusalem with university professors, journalists, and representatives from the Holocaust museum at Kibbutz Yad Mordechai, as well as Holocaust survivors, and members from Rabbi Zion’s family all attending the event. You can find more info about the book at legacyofhopebook.com and you can order a printed or Kindle copy through Amazon: ORDER 'LEGACY OF HOPE' Let’s pray that the Lord uses this book to bring many to a revelation of the Messiah of Israel! ____________________________ A Life-Changing Vision “Around the year 1934, a most amazing event took place. While in prayer, Rabbi Daniel had a vision of a glowing man. When the vision faded, he first went for advice to his fellow rabbis and Jewish friends, but they were unable to explain it. After some thought, he decided to go to Metropolitan Stefan. Rabbi Daniel told him about the vision; Stefan smiled and told him that if it happened again to say to the man, “Here I am.” The rabbi agreed and returned to his regular prayers. It was not long until he had a second vision. This time, when the glowing man appeared, Daniel said, “Here I am. Who are you?” “Ani Yeshua,” the glowing man replied, which means “I am Jesus.” As soon as the vision cleared, the rabbi retrieved his dusty, torn New Testament [which Metropolitan Stefan had gifted him in another part of the story] from his study shelf and began to read. As he turned the pages, his heart swelled with joy and with the knowledge that Yeshua was indeed the long-awaited Messiah. With his New Covenant in hand, Rabbi Daniel once again went to visit his friend Metropolitan Stefan, this time to tell him what had happened and to ask what he should do with this newfound dilemma. “Don’t convert,” Stefan advised him. “You can remain a Jew and still believe in [Yeshua] Jesus.” After much discussion, the two men agreed that Daniel should indeed remain a rabbi and head of the Bet Din [supreme rabbinical court) of Bulgaria. He could believe Yeshua was the Messiah of his people Israel, but at the same time continue to observe the Law and the Commandments, preserving his Jewish identity in full.” ____________________________ "Near the end of summer 2015, my father, Avi Mizrachi, announced with great excitement, “We are going on a family trip to Bulgaria to explore and discover more about our our vague heritage. He caught me off guard with his news, as I was right in the middle of finishing my final project for my master’s degree. After he left, my mind wandered from the books of study at hand to all the incredible memories I had of my grandparents and of the stories they shared with my sisters and me. Their sporadic narratives often left us girls wondering if there was more to our heritage than they remembered or intended to share with us. Despite my looming deadline for my M.A., I felt a growing excitement and irresistible urge to take this family heritage trip... within a couple of weeks I found myself in Sofia, Bulgaria. Once there, I was in awe at seeing the very places my grandfather had described in his stories... With many pieces of the puzzle still missing, I decided I would try to find some of the missing pieces and start putting the puzzle together. Though this decision launched my personal journey of research into history and heritage, I realised that the things I discovered over the next seven or so years constituted the core of this book. My discoveries from that time span the years prior to the holocaust, all the way through to the establishment of the state of Israel... My hope is that you will experience these historical events as if you were a part of our Jewish family in Bulgaria and later in Israel... May you be inspired by this family journey, from generation to generation, to continue to stand for what is true, right, and just.” Devorah ____________________________ BOOK REVIEWS "For years we have heard the name of Rabbi Daniel Zion and some of the stories of his faith and heroism. Avi Mizrachi, who knew Daniel, has done an invaluable service to the body of Messiah in Israel, as well as for Jews and Christians around the world. He has diligently documented the extraordinary events surrounding the man who was the chief rabbi of Bulgaria during WWII, and yet was a humble follower of Yeshua. It is an amazing story of faith in God and what He can do through courageous people. This book will be an encouragement for all believers, especially for those who find themselves in challenging times.” Carol and David Pileggi, Christchurch, Jerusalem. "The book carefully and precisely adds otherwise unknown information about the horrors of the Holocaust years in Europe, but also honours the often hidden heroes of that era. Two of those heroes were the chief rabbi of Bulgaria and the Metropolitan bishop of Bulgaria. Together, the rabbi and the bishop successfully encouraged the King not to deliver their 48,000 Bulgarian Jews to the Nazis for extermination. The memory of the rabbi is indelibly etched in the hearts of those families who were later able to find safety in Israel. Another less known part of the history that needs to be told is that this honoured rabbi created quite a dilemma as he began to let people know that he had come to believe that Jesus is indeed the promised Messiah of Israel. Though the rabbi was deeply loved and honoured, the rabbinic councils of Israel did not know what to do with him. This amazing man of God looms large in Avi Mizrachi’s own family, as others who came to faith in Jesus because of the rabbi’s life and teaching.” Don Finto, author of “Your People Shall Be My People”. You can find more info about the book at legacyofhopebook.com and you can order a printed or Kindle copy through Amazon: ORDER 'LEGACY OF HOPE'

The events of October 7th and the subsequent war with Hamas in Gaza have led to a deep grief and mourning in Israel. A great darkness has come over the people and its hard to find hope. For several years now, Chaya Mizrachi along with a group of Messianic women have been organising a conference for women primarily focused on healing and restoration. This year, they witnessed unprecedented numbers registering - women desperately wanted to be together - to worship, to pray together, to seek God’s face - this year’s conference was the largest gathering for Messianic Women in Israel, hosted by Messianic Women! During the conference Chaya shared how on October 7th she was flat on her back, unable to move after back surgery had gone wrong. She was leaking spinal fluid and in a very serious condition. She had woken at 6am and by 6:30am the air raid sirens were going off. “..that was the day that brought such pain and grief to all of us... which intensified when the world started to turn on us. [The emotions were so intense] ...I’ve cried just about every day and I’ve been angry too. And then we knew our sons and daughters, our husbands, our fathers were now in a battle against evil. We knew deep inside of ourselves that this was a battle against evil... The Lord showed me something about darkness. We don’t often think about God and darkness, we tend to think about light, Yeshua is the light but in Psalm 139:11-12 it says: “If I say: “Surely darkness covers me, night keeps light at a distance from me,” even darkness is not dark for You, and night is as bright as day— darkness and light are alike.” (Psalm 139:11-12 TLV) “Even darkness is not dark for the Lord. There was a family in Holland in World War II, called the Ten Boom family. This family paid a price saving the lives of Jewish people. The two sisters were in the death camps and Betsie said this to her younger sister, Corrie: “There is no pit so deep that He [God] is not deeper still.” So, even darkness is not dark for our God. “My daughter, Devora called me and asked me if I remembered Kibbutz Nir Am and I said, yes. This Kibbutz is near the southern city of Sderot (about a mile from the border with Gaza), and they opened the doors of their Kibbutz during Covid-19 to this women’s conference and said that we could put up a tent and they would let us worship the Lord as Messianic women on their Kibbutz. [Other venues refused to have them because of their belief in Yeshua (Jesus) as the Jewish Messiah but Kibbutz Nir Am said, yes.] We met there for two years running and we prayed over that Kibbutz - for God to protect them, guard them, take care of them. During the first meeting there at the Kibbutz as we were worshipping, suddenly all the power went out. The women continued to worship, clapping their hands and worshipping with all their might. I will never forget that day as I felt like I heard with every clap of the hand, the stomping of women, an army of women. What I could feel in my heart was I could hear a marching on the land, I could just feel it. There were marching women, an army of women going forth and then God really put it in our hearts to pray a blessing over this kibbutz, that we wanted to ask God to protect them, take care of them, watch over them, care for every child and family. We prayed in this Kibbutz and we asked God to take care of and watch over this Kibbutz.” “When the October 7th attack happened, in the early hours of the morning, the head of security on Kibbutz Nir Am was a young woman. As the rockets came in and the people ran to the bomb shelters she called her superiors. They told her to stay in the safe room [a bomb shelter] but something inside of this young woman in her inner being, said something is wrong - something inside her said, “No! Call everyone in and get the weapons out.” And so she did. She got the weapons out, she called her security team in, she gave them their weapons and they were all in position around the perimeter when the terrorists attacked the kibbutz. The battle lasted several hours but they were ready. Also, when they asked her about turning the generator on, because the terrorists had cut the electric power throughout the whole area, she again felt inside of her a strong sense to say, “No, don’t turn them on.” Because of that, the terrorists couldn’t get the gate open and couldn’t enter with vehicles preventing further violence and kidnappings. The enemy could not enter inside. “I looked back and I thought about those two conferences, how this Kibbutz had welcomed the followers of Yeshua. I thought about the sound of marching women and how strong the women worshipped with the clapping of the hands. There was a marching army of women who love Yeshua who prayed and worshipped at Kibbutz Nir Am. “I want us all to know something. We prayed there and then we forgot about it, but God hears every prayer of our heart - he hears every cry, every utterance. Everything that is coming from us to Him, He hears. In Revelation 5:8, it says there are golden bowls in heaven. Incense is rising to the God of Israel and it says these are the prayers of God’s people. So a prayer from 20 years ago, is still rising as incense to the Lord. When we were planning this year’s conference, we were asking what should this year’s scripture be, for such a year as this year! There was a story about an Israeli mother who was doing the traditional Friday evening Shabbat meal blessing over the bread but her heart was breaking as her daughter had been kidnapped by Hamas and taken to Gaza. As she was doing the blessings she found herself saying, “I love you, Adonai.” Despite all the heart-breaking circumstances she could still say, “I love you, Adonai.” and know the Lord had compassion and comfort. “I was reading Psalm 18, “I love you Adonai, my strength.” Even though I was grieving, I was able to wake up each day and say, “I love you, Adonai, my strength.”” In the original Hebrew, the word translated ‘love’ here in this verse, means love and comfort, like a mother comforts a child. Its a rare word in Hebrew and is also related to the word compassion. “In Isaiah 66:13 it says, “As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you, so you will be comforted in Jerusalem.” Picture a mother with a new born baby because it means both love and comfort - but it goes both ways. It goes between the mother to the child and the child to the mother. The mother is comforted when the child is comforted. The child loves the mother, the mother loves the child. And that is how God is with us. He takes His daughter in His arms - it goes both ways this scripture.” It was with that thought and confession that Chaya opened the conference as all the women declared: “I love you, Adonai, my strength!” The theme for this year’s gathering was “In His Presence” and the scripture was from Psalm 18:1 when King David said, “I love you, Adonai My Strength.” PRAY Pray for the Lord to comfort these women with His compassion. That hearts would be healed and hope restored and strength renewed. That they would become a spiritual army praying God's plans and purposes into being. " For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." (Ephesians 6:12) GIVE Invest in the work the Lord is doing among both Jewish and Arab women who follow Yeshua (Jesus) in Israel.

After much prayer and seeking God’s plan during these difficult times, the leadership of Lech L’cha (a 3-month residential discipleship programme for young people) decided to go ahead by faith, and start a Spring Discipleship Program. 18 young believers signed up – 14 girls and 4 guys. They are excited and expectant for what God has for them during this time. The resounding prayer request from all these young people: to fully commit, to strengthen their walk with the Lord, and to hear God’s will for their future. Please remember them in your prayers. Many are just out of their compulsory national service in the army; some have served an extended time, and in reserves as a result of Iron Swords. They have experienced and witnessed atrocities of war first hand, many have a close friend or relative who has died or has been seriously injured as a result of October 7 and the ensuing war. “We have equipped ourselves especially to bless and minister to them where they are,” shared Lech L’cha. “As well as direction from God about their next steps, they are also in need of times of healing, refreshing and encouragement from the Lord” Meet the Team “In addition to the Pastors, teachers, and lecturers on the program,” shared Lech L’cha, “we are so grateful for our full-time staff, who are equipped and eager to sow into these young lives. We are thankful to God for a full time cook, who is able to make nutritional, healthy, delicious meals for the team, participants and volunteers (that’s at least 30 mouths to feed) Rolan has accepted the call to this ministry with Lech L’cha having been trained in the army during Iron Swords and her resume includes experience in producing one thousand meals a day. “Along with the Lech L’cha full time staff, we have a team of young leaders joining. They are graduates of the previous Discipleship Programme, and have accepted the call to sow into the next Course. They bring a new level of excitement, eagerness and energy to the leadership team. They are also actually continuing their own Discipleship journey as they put their giftings and service in practice with Lech L’cha.” “Thank you for your Support. Now, more than ever, we value your support for Lech L’cha and for what God is doing in Israel. There is so much negativity in the media, and these are difficult times. But ultimately we look to God and trust him. We need the same faith as Abraham when God called him to ‘Lech L’cha’ - to Go Forth! PRAY for the staff and students of Lech L’cha as they equip a new generation to serve the Lord. GIVE Support the work of discipleship in Israel

How do you pastor children in times of war and conflict? In a previous blog we shared about the amazing work Dor Haba is doing to bring Jewish and Arab children who follow Jesus, together during these tense times. In part 2, we wanted to share some of the amazing activities the children took part in during their Spring camp. Tal who runs Dor Haba in Jerusalem shared this report... During such a difficult season here in the land, it was such a joy to see the children genuinely happy. The “dividing wall of hostility” (Ephesians 2:14-16 ) was non-existent as the kids worshipped and played alongside their Arab and Jewish brothers and sisters. “It was two full days packed with amazing sounds of worship and prayer led by children, shouts of joy during sports and creative arts, and little hearts ready to receive during messages and ministry time! Worship Teams "We split the children into seven different worship teams, with adult and teenage “coaches”. The children chose worship songs and scriptures to read and pray for the last night in front of their peers and parents. Our goal was to show the children how powerful worship and prayer work together, and to introduce them to leading and playing with a team. Music and Video Production "Throughout the camp, we were able to film two music videos to original songs written by teenagers in Hebrew and Arabic. The children recorded these songs in our Dor Haba studio and the videos incorporated art, dance, football, and drama from the camp. We can’t wait to share these with you soon! Football "We had an option to choose football (soccer) for a creative project this year. The children played games together on teams and had the chance for discipleship before each session. There was also a time during one of the football sessions for the children to be filmed for the music video. A child from the drama workshop joined and helped to act out the scene. Drama "Children who participated in drama created a skit to be performed during the final meeting. It was anointed and impactful. They acted out the struggles of walking with the Lord in a world full of distractions, and demonstrated how they still choose Him through all of life’s difficulties. Art "The children in the art project created giant wings to go along with the camp theme, “Under His Wings.” Each child painted and drew on smaller feathers that were later assembled together on a gold banner. On each feather the kids wrote a word describing what it means to them to be under God’s wings. The dance students then took the assembled piece to the Ben Hinnom Valley to be used in one of the music videos. Dance "One of the teenagers from the Dor Haba Youth camps choreographed a fun dance that the children learned for the music video and song, “Only You Are Worthy.” An 11-year-old Jewish believer in Yeshua, Liana, performed a heart-moving solo dance to the original song, “Under His Wings”, in the Ben Hinnom valley. Filming in the Ben Hinnom Valley "We felt that it was prophetic and significant to film here. In the scriptures the Ben Hinnom Valley, or “The Valley of Slaughter”, was where the people of Judah sacrificed their sons and daughters to idols (Jeremiah 7:30). Up until about 20 years ago the valley was full of trash and there was nothing green growing there. Today, the Valley is full of life. We are seeing the Lord fulfil His promise to turn the most vile place into a place of “Eternal Blessings” (Jeremiah 31:40). By bringing the children to dance and sing in the very place where the Israelites once burned their children, we are siding with God and His faithfulness to restore Israel and to bring His kingdom to Earth. While the children were dancing and being filmed for the music video, seven white doves began circling over them over and over. It was a glimpse of God’s heart for the children, and it showed us His covering and hand over the camp.” Tal, Director of Dor Haba, Jerusalem PRAY For DOR HABA as they train up a new generation to seek breakthrough in difficult times through prayer and worship. For young hearts filled with faith that remain strong in the Lord overcoming fear and being a light to their friends. And a hope to the whole Middle East. For parents who are sacrificing their sons and daughters to modern-day idols to experience a ‘Damascus Road’ encounter. For the Lord to turn even the most vile places into a place of eternal blessings. "We strongly desire that in this time of war, both Jewish and Arab children who believe in Yeshua will grow in their calling and learn how to worship and intercede, not only in the good times but also in the uncertain and difficult times…” - Dor Haba GIVE DOR HABA would not be able to run these amazing kids camps and regular prayer and worship sessions without the generous support of people like you. If this stirs your heart and you’d love to invest in this ministry to Jewish and Arab children in Israel, click the button below and note your gift is for DOR HABA.

Along with you, we are so blessed to serve the God who is ‘able to do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine’! Paul’s sudden exclamation of praise in his letter to the Ephesian Church, only bears the caveat: “according to His power that is at work within us.” The generous abundance of God’s actions through us, only appear limited by how much we allow Him to work in us. Please join us as we pray for the Jewish and Arab followers of Yeshua (Jesus) in Israel, that they will continue to see God’s power working through them, reaching their nation with the truth of Yeshua the Messiah. Let’s believe together for ‘all Israel to be saved’ and watch our good Abba do ‘immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine’! We want to thank you for allowing God’s generous abundance to flow through you in such a practical way when you give and when you pray. We really do appreciate your heart to partner with what God is doing in Israel and trust that as you bless, you will also be blessed! For such a time as this!

How do you pastor children in times of war and conflict? Is it possible to turn fear and confusion into a passion to seek God and pray for His will to be done? We wanted to share this report from Tal who runs Dor Haba in Jerusalem who has been wrestling with these very questions... "With war and tension raging in the region, it is crucial during this time that we raise up children in Israel who will worship Adonai, and who will push to see breakthrough in prayer. The enemy is deliberately trying to sow fear, hatred, and confusion among many, but he will not have his way! We pray that our children and teenagers will continue to grow closer to God now more than ever before. We pray they will learn how to lift up their voice in worship and prayer, standing firm and holding fast to Yeshua! We strongly desire that in this time of war, both Jewish and Arab children who believe in Yeshua will grow in their calling and learn how to worship and intercede, not only in the good times but also in the uncertain and difficult times. It’s through their worship and prayer that God will shift the atmosphere. It’s through their humble, God-given gifts and talents that He will shape history! With great anticipation and by His grace, we were able to host our annual Dor Haba Kids’ Camp at the end of February. As we prepared ahead, keeping the children in our prayers, the Holy Spirit led our team to use Psalm 91:4 as the theme of the weekend. The scripture declares: “He will cover you with his feathers and under his wings you will take refuge!” Over the weekend, we truly witnessed God surrounding us with His presence and love. We had a great turnout! There were a little over 90 kids attending with the help of 50+ adult and teenage staff. Most people came from Jerusalem and the surrounding areas. We also had a group of Arab children and leaders come from their community in the north of Israel. It’s always a powerful dynamic to have a collaboration of leaders, both Arab and Jewish. Over the years, Dor Haba has fostered relationships between Jewish and Arab believers that have grown into long-lasting friendships. Specific young adults and teenagers from previous Dor Haba camps were invited to be volunteers for this year’s kids’ camp. It was incredible to see their growth in leadership and teamwork, and to watch them strategically coach and facilitate children-led worship teams, various workshops, and games over the weekend. It was absolutely a God-appointed time of devotional worship, teaching, ministry, creative projects, and just pure fun. During such a difficult season here in the land, it was such a joy to see the children genuinely happy. The “dividing wall of hostility” was non-existent as the kids worshipped and played alongside their Arab and Jewish brothers and sisters. It was two full days packed with amazing sounds of worship and prayer led by children, shouts of joy during sports and creative arts, and little hearts ready to receive during messages and ministry time!" On Friday evening Tal shared a message based on Jeremiah 29:11, about not being too young to walk in your calling. Examples like King David as a boy and Miriam (Mary) as a young teenager were given. Another team member, Melanie, shared a message on Saturday morning about choosing to stay close to God and staying under His wings. The children spent a few minutes at the end listening, closely huddled at the front, learning how to be quiet and hear God’s voice. Several of them then shared encouraging words, promises, or exhortations that He put on their heart. It was so beautiful to see them experience this! Jerusalem prayer ministry leader, Rick Ridings shared a message on Saturday night about God becoming our true friend, and how to be a friend that leads others to Him. There was an altar call at the end for children to receive and believe in Yeshua, or to rededicate their lives to Him, and many responded. “The last night was incredible and the children were overjoyed to worship and sing their songs that they practiced to the Lord. “It was amazing to see the Young Staff encourage them and the parents who were invited on the last night all jumping up and down with love and praise for Yeshua. “The children also prayed for protection and deliverance for the Israeli hostages in Gaza, for innocent families in Gaza, and for protection for the soldiers. “They also prayed out in faith, believing God for salvation among the members of Hamas — that Yeshua would reveal Himself to them. “They prayed for the Muslim and Jewish people across the region, and for their governments, that they would all have revelations of Yeshua and believe in Him." What Makes Dor Haba Special… “We know that during this weekend at the Dor Haba Kids Camp, “Under His Wings”, the Lord’s heart was full of joy. “There is absolutely nothing better than Abba Father seeing His children worshipping Him in unity, loving each other, and using their gifts for His Glory! “It is significant when children rise up in their identity as sons and daughters of the Lord, and as young “Davids” and young “Miriams (Marys)”, choosing to worship God in every season! “Dor Haba Kids is a space that encourages and causes children to rise up in this! It provides a place where they can make friends they would normally not meet, and pushes the teenagers to step up in the role of leadership. “It is a place where their gifts and talents are developed and put on display for the glory of God. “Praise God, He is our protector, and we believe that our children truly received the Psalms 91:4 revelation during the camp! “We truly witnessed the Father meeting them and covering them with His love.” - In His peace and joy, Tal and the Dor Haba Team (Sarah, Melanie, Tal, Sasha, Joshua, Stephan, Melad, Oved, Leon, and more…) PRAY For DOR HABA as they train up a new generation to seek breakthrough in difficult times through prayer and worship. For the children - That they would truly experience the refuge under Adonai’s wings. For hearts filled with faith that remain strong in the Lord overcoming fear and being a light to their friends. And a hope to the whole Middle East. GIVE DOR HABA would not be able to run these amazing kids camps and regular prayer and worship sessions without the generous support of people like you. If this stirs your heart and you’d love to invest in this ministry to children in Israel, click the button and note your gift is for DOR HABA.

The celebration of Purim took place in March - commemorating a time when the attempted annihilation of the Jewish people was thwarted by the actions and faith of a young woman called Esther. In Israel, it’s a time when synagogues up and down the country read the story, reminding the people of God’s mighty hand and saving power and encouragement to keep believing the promises He has given them over the centuries. Traditionally the story will be re-enacted, often with pantomime flair encouraging suitable boos and hisses for the nemesis, and cheers and clapping for the heroes in this snapshot of history. Children and adults alike dress up a few days before the celebration, walking the streets in various outfits on their way to work and school and special pastries are baked for everyone to enjoy. It’s easy to look on and wonder why people make such a fuss of this celebration, but then, most of us have not likely had our nation, our people, our family, targeted for annihilation. There is a gritty determination amongst this people that God marked for his own, so many centuries ago, that despite all those who hope for the contrary, they will survive. Marking Purim each year is a way to remember that survival is always possible with God’s intervention. And for those who love and follow Yeshua, there is an even greater determination to see their people not just survive, but thrive as they find faith in their Messiah, grow in discipleship, and learn just how much they are loved by the very God that chose them as his inheritance and is committed to keeping the promises he made to them - that he will not forget them, that they will indeed survive, that they too can experience eternal life through the work of Yeshua. Blessings and shalom!

INTERNATIONAL HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY Every year, the 27th January is set aside in many countries around the world to remember the victims of the Holocaust. We felt inspired to dedicate this quarter’s magazine to the Holocaust Survivors we work with and to highlight the dedication of those working to bring love and joy to these precious ones in their final years. Every act of kindness brings a little light and hope in the darkness. One of the initiatives of the UK Holocaust Memorial Day is to encourage people to place a candle in their window to represent light in the darkness. Each year people take part in this national moment for Holocaust Memorial Day. At 8pm on 27 January people across the nation will light candles and put them safely in their windows to: Remember those who were murdered for who they were Stand against prejudice and hatred today Iconic buildings and landmarks will light up in purple during this powerful national moment of commemoration and solidarity. For Holocaust Memorial Day 2023, Piccadilly Circus projected portraits of Holocaust and genocide survivors on the huge screens in the lead up to the national moment, and the screen lit up with a commemorative candle. A group of survivors watched from the ground and held candles in a powerful moment of unity. How to take part? Place a candle safely in your window at 8pm on 27 January. Become part of the conversation about Light the Darkness online by sharing a photo of your candle on social media. Use the hashtags #HolocaustMemorialDay and #LightTheDarkness. Learn more about the Holocaust. There is lots of info on the HMD Trust and Holocaust Educational Trust websites hmd.org.uk and het.org.uk Join us in supporting Holocaust Survivors living in Israel today. Donate here: What was the Holocaust? From The Holocaust Educational Trust: “The Holocaust was the murder of approximately six million Jewish men, women and children by Nazi Germany and its collaborators during the Second World War. The Holocaust is often referred to as the Shoah, the Hebrew word for catastrophe. “Antisemitism (hostility to or prejudice specifically against Jewish people) has existed for centuries and can be traced as far back as Biblical times. When the Nazis came to power in Germany in 1933, they began transforming their antisemitic ideology into dangerous antisemitism legislation. Jews were stripped of their jobs, their possessions, and their citizenship; simply for being Jewish. They were soon forced from their homes and placed in ghettos across Europe. Millions of Jewish people were murdered in purpose built death camps, forests and ravines. They were exposed to horrendous living conditions in concentration camps, where many died as a result of starvation and disease. “When we talk about the mass murder of European Jews, we are not only referring to the loss of millions of lives, but also the disappearance of cultures, communities, languages and traditions. The Holocaust was the most radical escalation and violent expression of antisemitism – hatred or prejudice against Jewish people. “Whilst the term Holocaust refers specifically to the genocide of European Jewry, other groups deemed racially and socially inferior experienced horrific and violent persecution by the Nazis, including Roma and Sinti people, Soviet civilians and prisoners of war, Polish citizens, Black people, people with disabilities, political opponents of the Nazis, Gay men, and Jehovah’s Witnesses. However, it is important to note that only Jews were targeted for complete eradication on a continental scale. It is important that we recognise the suffering of each victim group in their own terms to properly preserve their memory and understand their history.” Trigger warning: some viewers may find some of the following photos distressing

HELPING HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS IN ISRAEL A thriving ministry to Holocaust Survivors was birthed by Andre and Bozena Gasiorowski when they witnessed first hand, the financial struggles of Holocaust Survivors in Israel today. Determined to do something about it they set up Helping Hand Coalition (HHC) to assist with financial aid and also to combat the effects of isolation and loneliness. The organisation has now been running for many years and Survivors have been blessed by the immense love and care that HHC expresses in all its different projects. One of HHC’s projects is Shalom Homes where a group of Holocaust Survivors are bussed to a place to receive not only a good meal but one that is beautifully presented with excellence in stunning surroundings. The Survivors are treated like royalty. After the meal there is always cultural entertainment (music, dance, art, or a short film) and often an opportunity for everyone to get up and dance. The hospitality shown is incredible and the point, to make the Survivors feel special, loved and honoured, works. You just have to see the smiles on the faces as they leave and their steps just seems a little lighter. Some of the worries of the world have for a moment been lifted from their shoulders and they are very grateful. In September, 40 Holocaust Survivors from the town of Hadera welcomed the Jewish New Year together at the HHC Villa in Caesarea. They were gathered by the Association of Ghetto and Concentration Camps Survivors and hosted by staff and volunteers of Helping Hand Coalition. Andre and Bozena warmly greeted all the guests, extending their sincere wishes for a delightful celebration and the coming New Year. Pastor Victor and Julia Blum delivered a meaningful address, explaining the significance of the festivity and setting the tone for the day’s festivities. A delegation of Friends of Israel from China and a famous Chinese singer, Esther Ha Hui, attended the event adding a touch of international flair to the proceedings. HHC often welcomes groups from overseas to come and bless the Holocaust Survivors showing them that there are those around the world that care. A delicious celebratory lunch was served and a pianist from Hadera provided the musical backdrop, playing traditional New Year songs in Hebrew and Russian. The power of music and song ignited a joyful spirit, prompting survivors to join in, clap, and dance. The room was filled with togetherness, the warmth of shared meals, and pure happiness. The Survivors left with a beautiful memory and expressed how they can’t wait to be invited again for such a special time. More then ever, during these times of war, the Survivors need these moments of light in the growing darkness. A group of 20 Holocaust Survivors from the city of Netanya visited the HHC villa in November on the 28th day of war and it was a much-needed time for sharing encouragement and praying for peace. Many of the participants in the event have loved ones that were called up to serve in the army. A fantastic dinner was served, Shabbat candles were lit and blessings recited for the wine and bread. A local Pastor shared from the Jewish lectionary, the portion of the week “Vaera,” speaking about Abraham, who left a great example of faith for us by trusting God in extremely difficult times. It was counted to him as righteousness. He explained the scriptures speaking about the ancestors of Abraham in such a way that it started to unfold and shine for many of the listeners for the first time. His wife, a writer, and teacher, shared about the story of Joseph and the ability to love God and thank Him even in very challenging situations. The talk was so full of hope, the listeners responded with all their hearts. A video clip was shown of the testimony of one of the Massacre survivors from October 7th. She shared her miraculous story of being saved by God during the horrific attack on the kibbutz near Gaza by Hamas terrorists. The leader of the Netanya Holocaust Survivors’ group, also shared her heart with the participants of the Shalom House, offering words of support and gratitude. A group from Germany were attending and shared how it was their desire to come to Israel especially during this time of war to bless the people in words and actions. They had delivered three massive truckloads of aid from Germany and Poland for people in need during the war. This news that Christians from Germany and Poland loved them is very healing for Holocaust Survivors whose experience had obviously been very different during the Second World War. At the end of the evening, after a beautiful piano recital, Tatiana, one of the Survivors shared that she had she had felt depressed on her way to the Shalom House and even at the beginning of the event. But after praying, hearing the uplifting messages and enjoying the music, she went home encouraged and strengthened, along with everyone present at the meeting. Another participant shared their heart and thanked the meeting hosts for bringing all the participants together and giving them a chance to encourage one another. He mentioned that these meetings bring joy and colour to the lives of the Holocaust survivors, as the Shalom Home gatherings created an atmosphere that everyone wanted to take home. In December, a group of Holocaust Survivors from Or Akiva enjoyed a special Hanukkah Shalom Home that included traditional Hanukkah doughnuts and the lighting of the second Hanukkah candle. A message was shared from the Bible and there was beautiful songs and music as well as prayers for peace and protection. SUPPORT HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS

Your giving and praying into what God is doing through local Israeli Believers makes a difference in so many ways, having an impact well beyond what we see in the natural, especially at such a time. When Yeshua (Jesus) walked through the Land and ministered to the people, He told His disciples He was doing only what He saw the Father doing, “because whatever the Father does, the Son also does.” And later He again said, “I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me.” Yeshua’s words and actions were a reflection of what the Father was decreeing in Heaven, and as He aligned Himself with the Father’s agenda, lives were changed with healings, provision, forgiveness and life itself. What a privilege it is for us to follow in Yeshua’s footsteps, to be His disciple, to learn from all He taught us and to do the very things He did, and in His own words, to “do even greater things than these!” As we too align ourselves with what our good Father is doing in Heaven, we begin to see His kingdom grow on earth. As we allow ourselves to be filled and directed by the Holy Spirit, we begin to reflect the heart of the Father, naturally expressing what He is doing and saying, bringing heaven to earth in such a real and practical way. Thank you for being a Kingdom builder, reflecting the heart of the King through your giving and your prayers, seeing His will done, on earth as it is in Heaven!

For 21 days during the month of May, millions of Christians around the world joined the call to pray for Israel and God’s salvation promises for at least one hour per day. The vision originated from the International House of Prayer in Kansas City (IHOPKC) and resonated with intercessors around the globe. IHOPKC called it an Isaiah 62 Fast based on the words of Isaiah 62:6-7 “On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have appointed and stationed watchmen (prophets), Who will never keep silent day or night; You who profess the Lord, take no rest for yourselves, And give Him no rest [from your prayers] until He establishes Jerusalem and makes her a praise on the earth.” (Isaiah 62:6-7) United in the Spirit as watchmen on the walls, HOPE (House of Prayer and Exploits), an Arab House of Prayer in Nazareth ended their 21-days of prayer and fasting with a special worship event, “The Roar” - praying and worshipping together in Arabic for the salvation of Israel among both the Arab and Jewish communities. On the Day of Pentecost, to mark the end of the 21 days, Believers from Israel and the nations gathered on the Southern Steps of the original Temple in Jerusalem for a time of prayer and worship at the heart of Jerusalem. Rania, the Director of HOPE, joined with an array of international ministry leaders on the historic steps. During the event, Rania shared how she has been praying into Romans 11:15 for more than 18 years: “For if their rejection brought reconciliation to the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?” It is crucial, she said, because it shows the important, prophetic destiny of the Jewish people for the overall plan of salvation and the global awakening of the nations in the earth. “It really carries so much hope,” she shared, “there is an anticipation that in the future there is coming a global revival but here it is really describing that when the Jewish people enter into the fullness of their destiny, they come to the knowledge of their Messiah - the description is so powerful, it says here it will be like life from the dead.” “The unity between Jewish, Arab and all people groups - that expression of the ‘One New Man’ is so key for the release of God’s blessings,” she continued, “and also instrumental for the salvation of Israel as it provokes the Jews to jealousy (Romans 11:11 “Again I ask: did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious.”). As an Arab, I get to play a very key role here in Israel, provoking the Jews to jealousy.” After the gathering on the old Temple steps, the HOPE worship team led worship in the Jerusalem Prayer Tower. “During the watch,” shared Rania, “the Lord gave me a vision of David's harps positioned on the top of the Jerusalem walls. I saw about 12 harps laying on the top of the ancient walls of the city, 3 harps on each side of the city. Then all of a sudden I saw strong winds beginning to blow from the four corners of the city, blowing into the harps strings. When the winds blew strongly, a beautiful peaceful melody was being released from the harps. When the sound of the melody was echoing in the atmosphere, I saw a portal being opened in the Spirit, and from this portal, a scroll came down rolling out towards the city. When I looked more intently to see what was written on the scroll, I could see it was Isaiah 54! In addition to their regular prayer watches and training in worship and intercession, HOPE are planning and preparing for their upcoming Arab Deborahs Arising Women’s conference. This will take place from the 22nd to 23rd September in Nazareth and is a vital lifeline of healing, encouragement and empowering to Arab Christian women. The Arab Deborah Arising conferences were inspired by the story of the Old Testament prophet, Deborah. A woman who, during a time of unrest and chaos, rose up as a mother of Israel to bring peace and safety back to the streets and villages of the nation. PRAY: For the women attending Arab Deborah Arising For all the technical, staffing and financial needs to be met with abundance. For the wisdom of the Holy Spirit for Rania and her team as they plan and prepare. For protection, strength and discernment for Rania and the HOPE staff For chains of oppression and rejection to be broken and a garment of praise and freedom to come upon the women attending. SUPPORT: donate here ISAIAH 54 “Sing, O barren, You who have not borne! Break forth into singing, and cry aloud, You who have not laboured with child! For more are the children of the desolate Than the children of the married woman,” says the Lord. “Enlarge the place of your tent, And let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; Do not spare; Lengthen your cords, And strengthen your stakes. For you shall expand to the right and to the left, And your descendants will inherit the nations, And make the desolate cities inhabited. “Do not fear, for you will not be ashamed; Neither be disgraced, for you will not be put to shame; For you will forget the shame of your youth, And will not remember the reproach of your widowhood anymore. For your Maker is your husband, The Lord of hosts is His name; And your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel; He is called the God of the whole earth. For the Lord has called you. Like a woman forsaken and grieved in spirit, Like a youthful wife when you were refused,” Says your God. “For a mere moment I have forsaken you, But with great mercies I will gather you. With a little wrath I hid My face from you for a moment; But with everlasting kindness I will have mercy on you,” Says the Lord, your Redeemer. “For this is like the waters of Noah to Me; For as I have sworn That the waters of Noah would no longer cover the earth, So have I sworn That I would not be angry with you, nor rebuke you. 10 For the mountains shall depart And the hills be removed, But My kindness shall not depart from you, Nor shall My covenant of peace be removed,” Says the Lord, who has mercy on you. “O you afflicted one, Tossed with tempest, and not comforted, Behold, I will lay your stones with colorful gems, And lay your foundations with sapphires. I will make your pinnacles of rubies, Your gates of crystal, And all your walls of precious stones. All your children shall be taught by the Lord, And great shall be the peace of your children. In righteousness you shall be established; You shall be far from oppression, for you shall not fear; And from terror, for it shall not come near you. Indeed they shall surely assemble, but not because of Me. Whoever assembles against you shall fall for your sake. “Behold, I have created the blacksmith Who blows the coals in the fire, Who brings forth an instrument for his work; And I have created the spoiler to destroy. No weapon formed against you shall prosper, And every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And their righteousness is from Me,” Says the Lord.” Keep praying for Israel and for God's continued plans for this nation. Pray for revelation and salvation among the Jewish and Arab populations.