By Mojmir Kallus, VP International Affairs

In recent years, the number of ICEJ branches worldwide has been increasing at a constant rate. Currently, we have offices or representatives in 90 countries and contacts in 176 nations around the world. This blessing, however, also brings a great challenge: How can we work together in unity as a global team, learning from one another, and fulfilling our calling in each country to comfort the Jewish people and connect the churches to Israel?

To meet this challenge and strengthen the development of the international work, we envision bringing our branches together in regional meetings to provide the opportunity to get to know one another, spend time in prayer together, and share practical insights.

Belgrade Regional Conference
The Serbian capital, Belgrade, witnessed the first regional conference of this kind in October. Sixteen European nations were represented from East and West of the continent. The participants included national directors and members of staff from our strong and experienced branches like Germany, UK and Finland, and also from our new branches like Albania and Bulgaria. The ICEJ team of speakers was led by President, Jürgen Bühler, and VP International Affairs, Mojmir Kallus, as well as our US Branch director, Susan Michael, and Director of Christian Friends of Yad Vashem, Susanna Kokkonen.

The three-day program kicked off with a reception for local, political, and church leaders. The impressive line-up of speakers included the deputy speaker of the Serbian parliament and the Chief Rabbi of Serbia. The organisers from the local Serbian branch, led by the national director, Rodoljub Oreščanin, proved they are already well-connected in their country.

Fellowship and Team Spirit
Jürgen Bühler presented the DNA of our organisation, which was a highly appreciated understanding of our identity. Other sessions addressed questions on how to grow a branch and the basics of fundraising, while providing tips for interesting projects. Many fresh ideas came from round-table discussions, but the most important element was the fellowship. A strong sense of unity and team spirit developed, which implanted a fresh dose of encouragement and inspiration to all.

The first regional conference confirmed the expectation and will be followed in the coming months by similar events in other parts of the world that will be adapted to local needs and cultures.