The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews Partners with Consul General of Los Angeles to Host Christian Solidarity Event for Hostage Families

May 29, 2024

LOS ANGELES (May 29, 2024) — In partnership with the Consulate General of Israel for the Pacific Southwest’s Los Angeles office, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (The Fellowship) welcomed more than 500 members of the Christian community including local pastors on May 22 for a solidarity event for several families of hostages still being held in Gaza.

Held at Los Angeles-area church Houses of Light, the event was organized as part of a larger effort by Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to show there is continued Christian support for Israel and the hostages taken during the attacks of October 7.

“With anti-Semitism on the rise globally, it is more important than ever to show solidarity for not only Israel and the Jewish people, but the families of the hostages whose lives were turned upside down on October 7,” said Israel Bachar, Deputy Consul General of Israel to the Pacific Southwest. “This event is an important reminder to these families that they are not alone during these times.”

In addition to a welcome from Consul General Bachar, attendees also heard remarks from Pastor Carlos Ortiz, Director of Church Outreach at The Fellowship, who shared how Christian supporters can continue to bless Israel through their congregations and through everyday prayer.

“It was fantastic to see such a wonderful turnout at the event, which showed the strength of the Christian community’s support for Israel despite the current climate of anti-Semitism,” Ortiz said.

Since October 7, The Fellowship has distributed more than $75 million in aid to support ongoing emergency needs and those impacted by the war and ongoing conflict.

“Solidarity is one of the most powerful, nurturing gifts that anyone can give to families who have been devastated by Hamas’ cruelty, with sons and daughters literally torn away from them,” said Fellowship President and CEO Yael Eckstein. “This event is further proof that these families are not alone, and our hearts and prayers are with them.”

To learn more about The Fellowship’s Blessing Israel church outreach program, please visit our website.