ARTICLES

By Arlene Bridges Samuels

Mainstream media coverage often leans toward negative narratives, leaving little room for stories of unity and cooperation. Yet a growing movement is taking shape across the United States, driven by rabbis, pastors, and faith leaders who are standing together in support of Israel.

In a time marked by uncertainty and division, many faith communities are seeking reliable information and meaningful ways to respond. Interfaith advocacy is emerging as a fact based and action-oriented effort that combines informed engagement, prayer, and hope. This collaboration reflects a renewed commitment to shared values rooted in Judeo Christian traditions.

A significant example of this momentum was seen recently in Washington, D.C., where 500 rabbis, pastors, and faith leaders from more than 37 states gathered for Israel Advocacy Day. Their presence in the halls of Congress demonstrated a unified voice and a growing commitment to constructive engagement.

This effort brought together a wide range of organizations. Christian participants included the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem USA, American Christian Leaders for Israel, Eagles’ Wings, Israel Christian Nexus, and the Israel Allies Foundation. Jewish organizations included the Jewish Federations of North America, the Orthodox Union, the Rabbinical Council of America, and the Zionist Rabbinic Coalition.

The cooperation between these groups reflects a shift from informal relationships to intentional partnerships. Faith leaders are working together to strengthen understanding, address misinformation, and support policies that reinforce stability and security.

The roots of Israel Advocacy Day can be traced to the aftermath of October 7, 2023, when faith leaders recognized the need for a coordinated response. In a short time, this initiative has developed into a structured platform that engages lawmakers from both major political parties. Participants meet with members of Congress and their staff to discuss issues related to Israel, rising antisemitism, and the protection of religious communities.

Shelley Neese, president of The Jerusalem Connection and coordinator for American Christian Leaders for Israel, has observed this transformation firsthand. She notes that Jewish and Christian leaders are no longer simply acquainted. They are working as allies. This partnership has strengthened communication and encouraged greater clarity in how both communities express their support for Israel.

During Israel Advocacy Day on May 6, mixed delegations of rabbis and pastors held 115 meetings across Capitol Hill. These discussions reflected broader public sentiment, including polling data that shows strong support for Israel among American voters. Faith leaders are helping to ensure that this support remains visible and active in the policy arena.

The advocacy agenda focused on reinforcing bipartisan support for Israel, addressing the rise in antisemitic incidents both in the United States and globally, and strengthening protections for houses of worship and faith-based communities.

The gathering concluded with remarks from public officials and community leaders, including Representative Don Bacon, Israeli Ambassador Yehiel Leiter, U.S. Special Envoy Yehuda Kaploun, and senior legal officials focused on civil rights. Their participation highlighted the importance of continued dialogue between faith communities and government leaders.

The evening before Advocacy Day, hundreds gathered for a gala that reflected both concern and hope. Eric Fingerhut, president and CEO of the Jewish Federations of North America, described the period since October 7 as deeply challenging. Yet he also pointed to the visible unity between Jews and Christians as a source of encouragement. Religious leaders emphasized the importance of expanding these partnerships in the years ahead.

For many Christian organizations, this level of collaboration represents the fulfillment of long-standing efforts to build meaningful relationships with the Jewish community. The breadth of participation from Jewish organizations signals a shared commitment to future cooperation.

Dr. Susan Michael, president of ICEJ USA, emphasized that support for Israel extends beyond any single community. She noted that it matters to millions of Americans. Jordanna McMillan of the Israel Allies Foundation affirmed that Jewish communities are not alone. Bishop Robert Stearns of Eagles’ Wings Ministries added a clear call to action, stating that passive concern is no longer sufficient and that people of faith must respond with purpose and conviction.

In a time when misinformation spreads quickly, this growing alliance offers a different path. It demonstrates that unity, informed advocacy, and shared purpose can shape meaningful outcomes.

Our CBN Israel team welcomes you to join us in prayer.

Prayer Points:

• Pray for each Christian organization involved in this effort.
• Pray for each Jewish organization participating in this growing partnership.
• Pray for continued unity and active advocacy among Christians and Jews.
• Pray for members of Congress to maintain strong and informed support for the United States and Israel relationship.