Ashkelon is one of Israel’s most ancient cities, carrying more than 4,000 years of history within its walls. Archaeologists discovered here the oldest standing city gates in the world (shown below)—gates that were never destroyed or buried, but remained upright through the centuries. These are the same gates Abraham would have walked through in his lifetime. In Ashkelon, biblical history is not abstract. It is physical, present, and enduring.
Today, Ashkelon is a vibrant coastal city that attracts many young families. Housing is still relatively affordable, especially compared to other major cities in Israel. Yet this accessibility comes with constant tension. Because of its close proximity to Gaza, Ashkelon has been one of the most heavily targeted cities by rocket fire. Normal life here has been shaped by uncertainty, interruptions, and the need for resilience.
It is in this environment that Beit Hallel Ashkelon was planted—as a daughter congregation of Beit Hallel Ashdod, carrying the same calling, values, and spiritual foundation.
Pastored by Eitan and Yulia Manpel, under Pastor Israel Pochtar’s mentorship, the Ashkelon congregation grew out of years of faithful ministry in Ashdod. The vision was clear from the beginning: to establish a strong local congregation rooted in Scripture, committed to discipleship, and active in serving the city with compassion. What God has proven effective in Ashdod—relational evangelism, steady teaching, and practical care—has been applied in Ashkelon with growing impact.
The past few years have tested this congregation deeply. COVID, repeated military operations, and frequent rocket fire from Gaza have made ministry demanding and, at times, exhausting. And yet, rather than retreating, the congregation has grown stronger in faith and resolve.
Scripture says:
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin”
Zechariah 4:10
What began quietly in Ashkelon is now bearing visible fruit. There is a noticeable openness to the Gospel. People are listening. Asking questions. Responding. What the Lord spoke in the early days is beginning to take shape in real lives, with 70 members in attendance at weekly services.
Alongside preaching the Word, Beit Hallel Ashkelon is deeply involved in caring for those under pressure. Ukrainian refugees who arrived with trauma and uncertainty. Holocaust survivors, many now elderly, are still living with the long shadow of loss. New Jewish immigrants are making Aliyah and rebuilding their lives in unfamiliar surroundings. Through food assistance, practical help, prayer, and personal relationships, the congregation reflects the love of Yeshua in tangible ways.
The spiritual life of the congregation continues to grow as well. Weekly Bible studies anchor believers in the Word. A strong home group network creates community and accountability. Quarterly discipleship courses help new believers develop solid foundations. In a city marked by instability, the congregation has become a place of consistency, faith, and care.
Ashkelon’s reality remains challenging. During the last military operation alone, more than 300 rockets were fired toward the city in a single day. Ministry here happens under constant awareness of risk. Yet the work continues—quietly, faithfully, and with hope.
What is unfolding in Ashkelon is not separate from Beit Hallel’s wider story. It is part of it. A daughter congregation growing in its own context, facing its own challenges, and bearing its own fruit—while remaining connected to the heart and vision of Beit Hallel Ashdod.
Prayer Requests
Please pray for:
- Pastors Eitan and Yulia Manpel as they lead and shepherd the Ashkelon congregation.
- Protection, wisdom, and endurance.
- The people of Ashkelon—for peace, openness to the Gospel, and comfort for those carrying trauma and loss.
- Ukrainian refugees, Holocaust survivors, and new immigrants finding their footing in the city.
- This work, that it would continue to grow strong roots and lasting fruit.
Thank you for standing with Beit Hallel—also in Ashkelon—where ancient foundations are once again witnessing a living work of God.
