Under attack — A letter from Israel

Amidst the crisis with Iran, Pastors Eitan and Julia Manpel, who serve a Messianic congregation in partnership with GCMM in the city of Ashkelon, share a moving update while activities were suspended due to the war. Here is their letter – requesting prayer and support.

Shalom!

The situation in Israel has become very challenging. Gatherings and in-person services have been banned for security reasons for the last two weeks – the only option available has been praying together via Zoom. High-alert air raid sirens have been continuous.

Unfortunately, the daily news is increasingly filled with reports of injuries and loss of life. The rockets launched from Iran are massive, each weighing up to one and a half tons.

“We are encountering fear and anxiety constantly.”

We have spent a lot of time in bomb shelters, praying without ceasing. Many people are afraid.

Closed doors

We are distributing food packages in Ashkelon and Kirya to people who are too afraid to make a trip to the grocery store. Only grocery stores and pharmacies are open. Schools, kindergartens and all institutions have been closed for several weeks.

This situation is intense, and in all probability, the most difficult since the October 7^th attacks. We still need your prayers.

“When a missile hits a house, there is nothing left.”

Practical help is vital. With schools closed, we have been helping families with children so that parents have been able to go to work. Many businesses, however, have closed their doors for security reasons following a missile strike in Haifa. Three people died while at work.