News
Shavei Tzyon | Return to Zion Congregation
Haifa, Israel
Thank you for standing alongside us!
Personal Update
In ministry circles, the word “burnout” is all too familiar. It manifests in fatigue, a complete lack of energy, brain fog, and irritability. That was pretty much where I found myself by the end of July. The reasons were many: an intense schedule with constant events, numerous meetings with congregational members (some of which were quite challenging), ongoing rumors of war, and overall spiritual tension.
Praise God, that is now behind us! In August, Nina and I were able to take a two-week vacation. I can’t even remember the last time we had two consecutive weeks off.
Highlights from the Summer
The Nesher Project: In August, we sent 24 teenagers (ages 15–19) to Norway for 17 days to participate in the Eagles Project. We are grateful to God and to everyone who helped make this trip possible. The youth returned completely renewed, strengthened in their faith, and deeply impacted in their spirits. In the congregation, I see young people carrying heavy burdens due to difficult life circumstances. Now, their joyful faces and radiant eyes remind me of the famous saying from the Talmud that every person is an entire world. When that world is transformed and filled with joy by God’s strength, it becomes a great treasure, encouragement, and hope for the whole Body of Messiah.
Junior Youth Ministry: Our 12 to 14-year-olds also had an action-packed summer filled with camps and trips. After months of anxiety and war, it was vital to give these children a change of scenery and positive experiences.
Music School: Leading up to August, our music school hosted eight uplifting concerts highlighting the remarkable growth and talent of our students. Some of them even participated in competitions with other music schools, taking home top honors! Two years ago, we opened a branch of the music school in Nof HaGalil (at our daughter congregation’s facility), and it has been thriving. Now we are planning to open another branch in Or Chai, a daughter congregation in the Krayot that was planted just one week before the war broke out in October 2023. I feel excitement and deep joy. Please pray for this expansion!
Humanitarian Aid: During the Fall Feast season, our outreach activity increases significantly. We have built a strong, growing relationship with the Haifa Municipality, which regularly refers many people in need to us. Over these High Holidays, we prepare about 300 food packages for local families. Similarly, our daughter congregation in Nof HaGalil, prepares 220 food packages. While this outreach is not a direct evangelistic event, it is a precious opportunity to be the light and love of the Lord to those who need encouragement the most.
Congregational Life: I am filled with joy seeing a new generation step up with fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and fellowship – especially evident in initiatives like our mothers’ and young children’s gatherings.
We pray that the biblical Appointed Times bring rich blessings to you and your families. May the sound of the Shofar bring physical strength, spiritual renewal, and deep peace to your hearts.
