The first anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel last October 7 is quickly approaching. The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews is commemorating the event with its “Flags of Fellowship” campaign, which invites Christians and congregations to demonstrate their solidarity with Israel and the Jewish people through prayer and a unified, visible gesture of support.
Americans who believe Israel holds a special place in God’s plan are being encouraged to purchase an inexpensive flag from Amazon and fly it at their home. That’s what you can do individually to show support in your neighborhood, but a larger effort is being organized where churches can participate.
On Sunday, October 6, at least 250 churches, universities, schools and synagogues throughout the United States and Canada will display fields of 1,200 Israeli flags on their grounds to pray and remember each victim lost that day, to honor the heroes and highlight the unwavering unity of Christians in support of Israel and the Jewish people. The 300,000-plus flags that will be displayed represent the millions of Christians standing together in defiance of hate and antisemitism. The campaign serves as a public declaration of unity between Christians and Jews, standing together in support of Israel’s ongoing struggle for peace and security.
“The Flags of Fellowship campaign is a poignant reminder of the unwavering bond between Christians and Jews, which is rooted in shared values and a common commitment to sanctify life and pray for peace,” said Yael Eckstein, president and CEO of the fellowship. “As we mark this solemn anniversary, we invite Christians everywhere to join us in prayer and courageously demonstrate their support for Israel and the Jewish people, even when doing so isn’t easy or popular.”
The fellowship is partnering with Pastor Allen Jackson of World Outreach Church in Murfreesboro, Tenn., to host the anchor Flags of Fellowship event. Eckstein will travel from Israel to attend the event and will address the thousands of faithful supporters about life in Israel since October 7.
“I am personally grateful for the incredible support of churches across the country and am deeply thankful to Pastor Allen Jackson for his leadership during these challenging times for Israel,” she said. “He is a great friend to Israel and the Jewish people.”
Since October 7, the fellowship has provided more than $114 million in direct aid to first responders, evacuees and those affected by the ongoing conflict. The organization is the largest provider of humanitarian aid in Israel. For more about how to support the campaign, visit www.ifcj.org/FlagsofFellowship.
–Dwight Widaman | Metro Voice