In recent days, the atmosphere in Israel has shifted again. There is quiet conversation about what could happen if tensions between the United States and the Iranian regime escalate. If such a confrontation were to take place, Israel would likely feel the impact — whether through Hezbollah in the north, Iranian-backed forces in Syria, or even direct missile fire from Iran itself. This is not something we speak about lightly. It is simply the reality of living in this region.
Iran has, over many years, built influence around our borders. Hezbollah in Lebanon has long been considered one of the most heavily armed non-state forces in the world, with a significant rocket and missile capability. At the same time, Iran itself possesses ballistic missiles capable of reaching all of Israel. In a larger conflict, we could face attacks from more than one direction.
We have lived this before. During the severe 12-day war with Iran not long ago, the sirens became part of daily life. Plans were interrupted. Nights were restless. Parents carried sleeping children into shelters. Messages were sent quickly — “Are you safe?” “Did you hear the alert?” “Are you near protection?”
And yet, in the middle of that tension, something holy happened. People prayed more. Families drew closer. Conversations about eternity were no longer abstract. When the ground shakes, people begin to ask deeper questions. For us as a congregation, one lesson became very clear: gathering must continue.
Our renovated bomb shelter is not just a safety measure. It is a statement. It says that worship does not stop when sirens sound. Prayer does not pause because missiles fly. Youth meetings, discipleship courses, and Bible studies continue because the spiritual life of a community is not suspended in crisis — it becomes even more necessary.
In times like these, believers need stability. They need to sit under the Word. They need to sing together. They need to look one another in the eyes and remember that God is still sovereign. That is why this shelter matters so deeply.
The rent and utilities for 2026 total $35,000. For an Israeli congregation, this is a heavy responsibility. But in the current reality, it is not something we can step away from. It is essential. It allows us to remain steady, prepared, and spiritually anchored if escalation comes. More than anything, we ask for your prayers:
- Pray for protection over civilians throughout Israel.
- Pray for wisdom for leaders navigating difficult decisions.
- Pray for peace in the hearts of children who hear sirens.
- Pray that believers would stand without fear.
- Pray that even in shaking, many would turn their hearts toward the Lord.
If you feel led to stand with us in a practical way, helping us secure this shelter for 2026 is one way to directly protect and strengthen Israeli believers in a time of uncertainty. A seed of any size can make a huge impact. Your partnership makes it possible for ministry to continue without interruption, even in the midst of crisis.
We do not live in fear. We live in faith. But faith does not ignore reality — it prepares wisely and stands firmly. Thank you for standing with us — in prayer, in love, and in practical support.
Shalom and blessings,
Pastor Israel Pochtar
