A time of favour, ingathering and replanting in Israel
By:  Howard Flower, ICEJ Aliyah director

In the summer of 2024, the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ) is in the midst of what promises to be a major year of Aliyah – Jewish immigration to Israel. Despite ongoing challenges – including the wars in Israel and Ukraine and rising antisemitism worldwide – the ICEJ anticipates an increase in Aliyah numbers throughout this summer and fall. 

Traditionally, the summer months are a peak season for Aliyah, as Jewish families relocate before the Israeli school year starts on September 1. This year, however, there is a heightened urgency due to the global surge in antisemitism. Remarkably, many are choosing to make Aliyah not despite the current conflict, but because of it, as they are driven by a desire to contribute to Israel’s needs during these trying times. 

Recently, ICEJ Senior Vice President & Spokesman David Parsons delivered a powerful message to a large Christian gathering in The Hague, emphasising the prophetic significance of this moment: “Today, we are in a time of favour upon Zion. A time of favour and ingathering and replanting. I say that even in light of the immense tragedy of October 7. Unlike in the past, Israel now has a state and a strong army that can defend them, they just cannot let their guard down.” 

Because we are convinced that God’s hand is regathering the Jewish people, the ICEJ has an unwavering commitment to support Aliyah, and even more so in this time of war and the meteoric rise of antisemitism worldwide. 

One cornerstone of the ICEJ’s summer Aliyah work is sponsoring youth Aliyah programs and summer camps for Jewish youths across Eastern Europe. These initiatives play a crucial role in connecting young Jews to their ancient heritage and introducing them to life in Israel. The ICEJ is currently supporting several summer camps spread across eight time zones, from the Baltic states to the Far East. In addition to Jewish youths having a fun time together, these camps offer a unique blend of cultural immersion, education about Israel, and practical preparation for Aliyah. 

In Latvia, for instance, an ICEJ-assisted Aliyah summer camp recently hosted 95 children and 23 camp counsellors. The diverse group included Ukrainian refugees from various European countries, as well as local Jewish children from Latvia and Lithuania. These camps provide more than just a summer retreat; they offer a transformative experience that helps young people reconnect with their Jewish faith and envision their future in Israel. 

The ICEJ is also sponsoring a series of Aliyah seminars and workshops. Plans include overnight Aliyah seminars in western Ukraine and Poland, each lasting two to three days and serving up to 70 participants. Additionally, six Aliyah Days are scheduled in Warsaw and the Baltic region, offering concentrated lectures and workshops on Aliyah and life in Israel. 

The ICEJ’s work extends beyond organising Aliyah flights and camps. We also are providing assistance to olim (new immigrants) at every stage of their journey. This includes help with submitting documents, flights and ground transportation, and integration into Israeli society. We recognise that Aliyah is not just about physical relocation; it is about building a new life in the Jewish homeland and the fulfilling of biblical prophecy. 

However, this vital work cannot be accomplished alone. The ICEJ relies on the support of Christians worldwide who share the vision of restoring the Jewish people to their homeland. And indeed, we are in a time of favour upon Zion, and there is a new wave of Aliyah developing at this very time. 

As we witness this prophetic ingathering, let us remember it is our privilege to take part in God’s present plans for Israel. We invite you to give your best gift today, to help write this new chapter in the biblical story of Aliyah. Together, we can ensure that more Jewish families find their way home, fulfilling ancient promises and shaping the future of Israel. 

Donate at: give.icej.org/aliyah 

Main photo: JAFI