As tensions in the Middle East reach a boiling point, The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry’s (FOI) ORIGINS volunteer team, consisting of 10 young adults, arrived in Israel on the same night the nation launched a major military operation against Iran. The volunteers, despite facing unprecedented danger, have remained steadfast in their commitment to serving the people of Israel during this time of crisis.

Earlier this month, Iran rejected a U.S. proposal to terminate its nuclear program, intending to use nuclear weapons to attack Israel imminently. In response, in the pre-dawn hours of Friday, June 13, Israel began Operation Rising Lion by launching a successful preemptive strike on Iran’s nuclear program. Late Friday evening, just hours after the ORIGINS team landed in Israel, the region erupted in chaos as air raid sirens signaled incoming Iranian missile threats in civilian areas. The volunteers found themselves taking cover in bomb shelters during what was meant to be a peaceful Shabbat dinner.

“Iran attacked Israel. We were at a Shabbat dinner and had to run to the basement for safety in the shelter,” said Chloe, an ORIGINS volunteer. “I was fine until I heard the Iron Dome intercept a missile. I thought it was on the ground, so I kind of freaked out . . . There’s a lot going on in Israel right now.”

Despite the ongoing threat, the ORIGINS team has demonstrated resilience and unwavering dedication.

Despite the ongoing threat, the ORIGINS team has demonstrated resilience and unwavering dedication. Although the young adults have spent their nights huddled in bomb shelters, they continued their volunteer efforts serving at Kaplan Medical Center in Rehovot, Israel. Their courage and determination have been a source of inspiration to those around them, providing much-needed support in a country grappling with uncertainty.

“As Iranian rockets were being launched toward Israel, our ORIGINS team served faithfully at Kaplan Medical Center, embodying the heart of Christ in a time of crisis,” shared ORIGINS team leader, Cameron Joyner. 

Originally scheduled for two weeks of volunteer work, the team’s service was unexpectedly cut short to just three days due to an emergency evacuation. Despite the shortened timeframe, their presence in Rehovot during the rain of ballistic missiles left a lasting impression. Professor Tarif Bader, CEO of Kaplan Medical Center, praised the group as “courageous,” while his assistant, Yaffa, expressed heartfelt appreciation, saying, “We definitely feel the love of The Friends of Israel.” 

The team’s compassion and commitment resonated deeply with the Israeli staff and patients they served. The volunteers’ presence was a testimony of hope, compassion, and unwavering support amid uncertainty.

The safety of the volunteers remains a top priority. Plans are underway to secure their departure on the first available flight back to the United States.

We ask for prayers and support during this tumultuous time as FOI’s ORIGINS team continues its efforts to bring comfort and support to those facing great hardship. And even as Iran continues its attacks, we are assured that our God “who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep” (Psalm 121:4).

Photo Credit: The Friends of Israel Archives

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The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry

Our mission is to bring physical and spiritual comfort to the Jewish people while teaching about Israel and the Messiah.