Sydney Communal Event: An Evening of Light & Solidarity
It was a deep honour to stand with the Jewish community for the historic, healing and deeply moving Presidential visit of H.E. Isaac Herzog to Sydney. The welcome reception was uplifting. There were songs, and psalms, and there were tears as we honoured the Bondi victims and their families. The incredible speeches were inspiring as each speaker conveyed a sense of strength and unity.
For the Jewish community who have had to endure unrelenting hatred for so long since Oct 7 2023, culminating in the Bondi massacre that ripped at the heart of our nation, this was a moment of light and hope. President Herzog and his wife came he said to the Jewish community, “to hug you, look you in the eye as you share your pain”.
This hope-filled gathering was a stark contrast to the violent hate-filled activists who screamed not far away. According to police advice, the participants were required stay in the venue until they deemed it safe to go back into the streets.
Proverbs 29:27: “The righteous detest the dishonest; the wicked detest the upright.”
It was a privilege to represent ICEJ Australia at a night which was not just historic but a remarkable witness of the Jewish nation who does not back down, who do not surrender their faith, identity or culture to persecution and antisemitism.
Just as faith was boldened and hurting hearts were slowly being restored due to the words of comfort from the President, we want to continue to offer comfort according to ICEJ’s mandate from Isaiah 40:1, “Comfort, Comfort my people says your God.”
Join us now to practically comfort the Bondi victims families and be a light to them this very hour…
Bondi Synagogue gift
The official symbol of the State of Israel depicts the golden Menorah that stood in the ancient Temple, surrounded by the leaves of the olive tree whose oil was used to illuminate it night and day. ICEJ’s logo also includes the branches of an olive tree. The olive tree, indestructible, is a tree of light, depicting the nation that God called to be ‘a light to the nations’.
Therefore, it was appropriate to gift the Bondi Synagogue with an olive tree which was presented by ICEJ team members and which they proudly display in their lobby. Following a warm invitation from the Rabbi, I had the opportunity to also visit and hear of their deep appreciation of this token of support from Christians.
Be’eri Kibbutz
Be’eri kibbutz has sent out a heartening report as they begin a new year of rehabilitation and restoration. “We aim to return to a renewed Kibbutz Be’eri by March 2027, after all the projects are completed. Together with our supportive partners, we can undoubtedly achieve this goal and succeed in our shared historic mission!”
We are thrilled that ICEJ’s part is rebuilding the Youth Centre and walking along side this community who suffered unimaginable tragedy. It was Kibbutz Be’eri which after 843 days received the last returned hostage. Ran Gvili could finally be laid to rest in his former home.
ICEJ Australia also has a deeper connection with the Kibbutz Be’eri through having hosted Danny Mejzner in Australia at the end of 2025. Some of you may have attended the ICEJ hosted events in various cities, and you would have heard his story up close and personal.
We will update you as the rebuilding progresses. You may still give towards this important project.
ALIYAH 2026
Supporting An Historic Decision
In an historic move, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet approved a five-year plan to complete the Aliyah of the Bnei Menashe community — descendants of the ancient Israelite tribe of Manasseh who have kept their Jewish identity alive for 2,700 years of exile. Your support can sponsor flights, provide absorption assistance, and help families reunite after years of separation. Preparation, flights, initial absorption is approximately $3,000 per person.
FEAST OF TABERNACLES
Experience a life-changing journey to Jerusalem for the FEAST OF TABERNACLES, a biblical celebration uniting believer from around the world. Immerse yourself in vibrant worship, powerful teaching, and the unique joy of gathering in the city of our great King.
Join us from 25 September – 01 October 2026 for the Feast of Tabernacles.
GLOBAL PRAYER WATCH
At ICEJ, we believe prayer is the engine of our ministry and should touch every part of what we are doing in Israel and around the world! We want you, our partners, to engage with us in prayer via our multiple prayer initiatives throughout the month and make the maximum impact in praying for God’s land and His people in these trying times.
With the constant threat of attack, the rising witness of Antisemitism and the devastation left behind in the lives of so many across Israel and globally – now is the time to gather in prayer and uplift the nation of Israel.
Blessings,
Sarah Way
ICEJ Australia National Director
