When They First Arrived Linked in His Love Many people are of the impression that Jewish It’s called a retreat—but it was really more of names were altered when immigrants came to an advance. Women throughout the Messianic America following World War ll. This great myth movement gathered recently in Pennsylvania claims it all started with the clerks at Ellis Island. But to minister to each other in a spirit of echad according to an expert, that may not be the case. A (unity). For the eighth consecutive year, leaders leading genealogist, along with an historian of New from congregations and organizations came York’s famous port, help unlock influences that together in an atmosphere of confidentiality challenged our relatives to modify their monikers— and openness keeping Yeshua front and and perhaps yours, too. See story, page 12 center in their lives. See story, page 13

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INSIDE the MT Waves of Reconciliation by Corry Bell ou have waves in Israel?” Waves of Reconciliation 1, 18 Todd Morehead gets tubed off the Israeli coast “YMaya Dauber, first pro- fessional Israeli female Controversy Collides into surfer, chuckles as she fields Checkpoint 1, 20 this question from curious He Thinks For Himself colleagues, while traveling the Ministry of Sid Roth 1, 17 pro circuit across the world. The frequent inquiries are amusing, From the Editor 3 and Dauber graciously explains her country’s oceanic resources Letters to the Editor 3 as being not the best, but do-able. With one eye on the sea Editorial: Undermining and the other on the skies, Israel 4 surfers in the Holy Land are ever watchful for threats from their News, Etc. 6 enemies, even as they wait for • Messianic Daily News the next swell. As most athletes • Messianic News Briefs of this sport are pensive people Can a Prophet Come to begin with, those residing in Out of Jersey? 7, 21 the northern coastal town of Nahariya have much more to Messianic 8, 9 think about as they sit on their • Testimony of Avital Guernsey boards in the lull before the ride; • Survey: Kashrut (Kosher laws) He Thinks Nahariya has been a target of Controversy Collides into terrorist attacks since 1977. Congregational Profile For Himself by Joe Weissman A passion for Israel and a great Ahava B’Shem Yeshua 10 Checkpoint understanding of the Christian by Gabriel Patton Church’s responsibilities towards What's in a Name? 12, 27 her are the driving forces behind Women’s Retreat a new documentary called Advances Unity 13 Promised Land. The feature is co- produced and directed by Todd Sifting the Biblical Morehead of Walking on Water From the Traditional 14 Films. Morehead is a Christian from Southern California and Hebrew Corner 14 an avid surfer. His best friend, Hani Ovadia, is a Persian Jew Honor Due living in Israel and a “shaper” of Esther Rosenberg 16 surfboards by trade. What is the common bond Doing a 180— these two men share? It’s their in a Hearthbeat 19 immy Carter had recently Jbeen inaugurated as the Armed members of the PFLP passion for surfing and their Reviews 21 39th President of the United desire to see peace in the Middle • The Sound of the Spirit States. A little startup company or believers seeking peace in the Middle East, George Habash East. Although their religious • Songs in the Night called Apple Computers had Fwould be an unlikely role model. Brought up in a Greek Orthodox beliefs differ, their friendship just been formed in a garage environment, he left his hometown of Joppa in 1948 during Israel’s War is genuine, and doesn’t seem to Congregational Directory in California. Long hair and of Independence. A zealous disciple of Gamal Nasser’s pan-Arabism, be affected by their differences, 22–25 sideburns were in style, and Habash would form the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine nor the miles that separate disco was all over the airwaves. (PFLP), a group which has carried out hijackings, suicide bombings, them. Surfing, they agree, is an Last Man (Not) And Elvis Presley would soon and targeted killings. The 1985 murder of Leon Klinghoffer—an elderly escape for some from the many Standing 26 give his last concert before his Jewish tourist thrown overboard while on a cruise—stands out as one challenges that surround them. untimely death would shock graphic example of PFLP violence. Little wonder that Habash was This is the angle from which they Milestones 27 the world. labeled “Terrorism’s Christian Godfather” by Time magazine. tell their narrative. 4Continued on page 17 4Continued on page 20 4Continued on page 18

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ne of the greatest challenges of incorporation of our greatly expanded Be sure to read the profile about life. With aspirations to become a Owriting for a bi-monthly publica- news service with The Messianic Daily Ahava B’Shem Yeshua, located in writer, and judging by the fine job tion is that by the time the newspaper News. For well over six years, Eric has Prescott, Arizona—a place you would she did, it looks like she’s well on her reaches your mailbox, the content been reposting items from a broad not normally associate with any way. might have already changed. Time- spectrum of Messianic online sources sizeable Jewish population, let alone a We value participation from the liness is always a risk, particularly on a daily basis. It has been his hobby, Messianic congregation. Led by Al and young and the not-so-young, alike. when it comes to politics. Rick San- more or less, simply to serve our Dee Rodriguez, an anointed Gentile Please consider taking the time to torum, who dropped out of the Pres- community. This worthy effort has couple, you’ll see what it took to build write to us, suggest a story, let us idential race, is one example. Nev- been available since January on our up a sizeable Jewish membership. know what you think of an article, or ertheless, there are several qualities Messianic Times website. Now, Eric He Thinks for Himself com- send us a word of encouragement! about him that will remain classic, has agreed to indefinitely suspend his memorates the 35th anniversary regardless of how the political pen- own service and share this valuable of Sid Roth’s ministry, a story of dulum swings. You can read all about information on our website, fully as perseverance and faith, leading to a it in The Last Man (Not) Standing. part of our team. relocation that culminates in a dream The Messianic Times is expanding It always pleases us to publish come true. its parameters to accommodate more articles that engender reader reactions To some, Lag B’Omer is just a Karen S. Meissner hard news—both domestic and such as, “I didn’t know that!” One such lesser-known Jewish holiday, where Managing Editor international—pertaining to the case appears in What’s in a Name? I, you don’t have to send greeting Messianic community. Whether in the too, used to think that almost every cards, roast a turkey or exchange format of Messianic Newsbriefs, which person who emigrated to the United gifts. Even though this holiday is offers a quick roundup of several States after the Holocaust had their not commanded or even mentioned The views and opinions expressed in the noteworthy items, or a full-fledged names changed by Ellis Island officials. in the Scriptures, there is plenty of Letters to the Editor, articles, reviews and article, like Controversy Collides Not so. Biblical validity in the marking of advertisements do not necessarily reflect into Checkpoint. It’s a modern “wolf Just across the Hudson River from the 49 days from Passover to Shavuot. those of the Messianic Times. Writers are in sheep’s clothing” story about a Ellis Island is the birthplace of Esther It’s all explained in Sifting the Biblical directly responsible for the accuracy of their conference touting a desire for “peace Rosenberg, who is featured in Honor from the Traditional. facts and information. The Messianic Times and reconciliation” that lent a not- Due. From the Bronx to Beverly Hills, The May/June issue would so-covert cover to an anti-Semitic this remarkable woman is fearless not be complete without our two- reserves the right to publish or not publish agenda. when spreading the Good News. part Messianic Youth section that’s submissions, as well as to edit articles Ever mindful of continuing While on the subject of New York always comprised of a testimony for clarity and space. The MT welcomes tensions in Israel, we offer hope with City, Manhattan is the backdrop of and a thought-provoking survey. comments from our readers. We’d love to Promised Land, a new documentary in author Jonathan Cahn’s new book, The topic for the survey is kashrut, hear from you! If you would like to share which the thrill of surfing transcends The Harbinger. Now everyone wants the commitment to keeping kosher, your thoughts with us, contact us at editor. international tensions, as athletes to know what led him to write about and how it applies to high school navigate waves, and not war. what would become a New York Times and college students today. In her [email protected] or write to: In this issue, Messianic Rabbi best-seller. Don’t miss Can A Prophet testimony, Avital Guernsey shares Messianic Times, 23811 Washington Avenue, Eric Tokajer reports about the Come Out of Jersey? about a special trip that changed her C-110-384, Murrieta, CA 92562.

May/June 2012 The Messianic Times 3 Editorial: Undermining Israel Letters or decades, we have endlessly Jewish people have maintained it as a parable; what happens error. This is especially I appreciate reading the Messianic Times and it Fheard of the conflictthat the Old Testament to the tiny Land of Zion important in our firm defense does help me to be a better follower of Yeshua. I between the State of Israel and prophecies covering the Land physically can give possible of Israel’s right to its God- like the articles on Israel and other related stories the made up people, known were valid, materially and spiritual insights about the given borders. A two-State about Jewish history, both political and religious. as Palestinians. Sometimes it literally. However, the long Body of Messiah. solution with Palestinians is not Thank you for making the Messianic Times more seems like a knife fight taking dispersion seemed to suggest In an ideal world, mentioned in the Bible. affordable for inmates ($5). Please accept the extra place in a telephone booth. there must have been only a everyone will accept the While living in Israel for nine postage [stamps] I am including as a gift to help The difficulty has always symbolic meaning. It was easy validity of the Holy Scriptures years, I got to know many of the you to reach others with your publication. It really been characterized as geo- and convenient for Christianity in the future. At such a time, 30 or so Arab Christian born- means a lot to me to be able to assist, as I can. political conflict, occupational to assume the Church was now the distortion of Replacement again church leaders and their Thanks again, and shalom! oppression and terrorist Israel. Now an unexpected Theology will be discarded congregants. We would exchange Jerry Stiles response. No one quite knows regathering is well underway, with hindsight. Until then, pulpits, spend weeks together in Winfield, LA what to do, or how to come but the former understanding much of mankind has yet to the desert and have theological to a solution. This is an old has not yet been sufficiently catch on to the idea that God’s consultations. The fellowship was I really enjoyed the March/April 2012 issue of problem based on nationalism. discarded. promises are real on both a always rich and delightful. the Messianic Times, in which the articles were Perhaps it is time to The disagreement existed physical and spiritual level. For My observation, however, interesting and insightful. I particularly liked the consider that Replacement throughout the ages. Jews now, much of Christianity is was that 90% of them embraced story about Ahavat Zion Messianic Synagogue, Theology (Supersessionism) take the Scriptural prophecies still beguiled by the 500-year- Replacement Theology. They where one of the previous rabbis had sought to provides a theological literally and Christianity old seminary teaching that the couldn’t get it into their heads disguise their congregation’s allegiance to Yeshua. undergirding to the attempted interpreted them figuratively. people of Israel are no longer that Israel was to be a Jewish The rabbi at that time was convicted about how anti-Zionist justification. Now come the Messianics. We Biblically relevant and that the homeland. Of course, there will wrong this was, and how it had blighted his Up until now, the Messianic maintain both the physical Church alone is operative in always be Arabs in the Land, congregants. He preached a sermon about it, movement has been somewhat and spiritual are correct on Providential events. prospering with full rights, as and had everyone rededicate the congregation tolerant of an age-old Biblical two different levels at the Christian support is vital now. to Yeshua. I have seen this blind spot played out misunderstanding which same time. Physical Israel and and necessary to the survival Unfortunately, the Arab in many congregations and organizations. It has has been taught in Christian ongoing regathering are facts. and expansion of the Messianic Christians have tended to become grieved me, because Yeshua has often been a made seminaries for many years. It has its parallel in the born- movement. For this reason— the unwitting propaganda into a side issue at best, rather than the focus of Maybe our community should again believers increasingly and not wanting to emphasize pawn of Palestinian nationalists. our worship and teaching. He said, “You won’t become more assertive in being gathered unto God’s differences among believers, Personally, I intend to be see me again until you say, Baruch ha ba b’shem arguing this theological point, kingdom. There is physical Messianics have made more aggressively opposed to Adonai.” (Blessed is He who comes in the name of since this teaching has fostered hostility in the Middle East allowances and quietly grieved Supersessionism. To me, it is the the Lord). Is He welcomed, high and lifted up in anti-Semitism, now morphed and spiritual hostility in without great debate when Zionist thing to do. our gatherings? If not, He should be! into anti-Zionism. modern culture. Christians don’t seem to object I am so glad that the Messianic Times put If among Christians, After all, of the increase to Supersessionism accepted by In Messiah, into words what was already in my heart. You Supersessionism would be of His government and so many churches. conveyed a great truth that could bring anointing relegated to the dustbin of peace, there shall be no end Perhaps, it’s time for and power in our midst. history, Palestinian arguments (Isaiah 9:7). More and more us to be more challenging, For Yeshua’s Honor, would substantially fall apart. will come under Yeshua’s and to say that Replacement Paul Liberman Marlene Rosenberg For many centuries, traditional authority. We could think of Theology is a well-intended Publisher Howell, New Jersey

The Messianic Times The Messianic Times The Messianic Times

United States: Publisher/Executive Director Statement of Faith 23811 Washington Avenue Paul Liberman C-110-384 We believe… Murrieta, CA 92562 Managing Editor Editor: (951) 249-8134 Karen S. Meissner Canada: (905) 685-4072 …the Tanakh (Jewish Scriptures) and the Associate Editor Toll-free: (866) 612-7770 Brit Chadashah (New Covenant) are the Gail Levin Fax: (905) 685-7371 inspired, infallible, authoritative Word of Advertising Director God. Messianic Times® Madelaine Fisher is published six times a year …that there is one God (echad), who Design/Layout by Times of the Messiah, exists eternally in the “Trinity” of God the Steffi Rubin a 501 (C)3 non-profit ministry. Father, Yeshua the Messiah and Ruach 23811 Washington Avenue Operations Coordinator/ HaKodesh (Holy Spirit). C-110-384 Congregation Listings Murrieta, CA 92562 Joan Davidson …in the deity of our Lord Yeshua the Views and opinions expressed in the Letters to the Editor, articles, reviews and Web Updates Messiah, His virgin birth, His sinless life, advertisements do not necessarily reflect those of the Messianic Times. Eric Tokajer, Messianic Daily News His miracles, His vicarious and atoning death, His bodily resurrection after three Writers are directly responsible for the accuracy of their facts and information. Additional Editorial Committee days, His ascension to the right hand of The Messianic Times reserves the right to publish or not publish submissions, Susan Perlman God the Father and His personal return in as well as to edit for clarity and space. Printed in the USA. Howard Silverman power and glory. Yeshua was Mashiach Board of Directors For a one-time complimentary copy of the Messianic Times ben Yosef (Suffering Servant) and His Frank Lowinger, President call (866) 612-7770 or e-mail [email protected]. second coming will be Mashiach ben Stephen Babkow David (ruling King) when He returns. Larry Feldman Advertisers: E-mail: [email protected] Joel Liberman …regeneration by the Ruach HaKodesh Paul Liberman Annual subscriptions for the U.S. and Canada are $29.99. (the Holy Spirit) is essential for salvation Postmaster: and the indwelling of the Ruach is neces- Overseas annual subscriptions are $39 or $75 for two years, which includes Send address changes to: sary to live a godly life. Messianic Times postage and handling. For new subscriptions, call (866) 612-7770 or visit P. O. Box 2096, Niagara Falls, NY 14302 www.messianictimes.com. For address change notification, e-mail office@ …in the resurrection of the saved and messianictimes.com. Additional or bulk orders are available upon request. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: the lost. Those who receive salvation Call (866) 612-7770 for pricing. Messianic Times through Yeshua will live forever with P. O. Box 4010, St Catharines, ON L2R 7S3 God; those who reject Him will know The Messianic Times is a strategic partner of the International Messianic Publications Mail eternal separation from God, as the Jewish Alliance. Agreement No. 40043958 Scriptures describe.

4 The Messianic Times May/June 2012 Letters continued…

On That Day 4Continued from front page NewsEtc.

Messianic Daily News by Eric Tokajer ast January, a strategic partnership was established between www.messianicdailynews.com and the Messianic Times. This concept was the brain Lchild of Paul Liberman, and his vision for unity in ministry has encouraged me in ways I cannot fully express. I am the publisher of www.messianicdailynews.com. When I received a phone call from Paul Liberman, Executive Director and Publisher of the Messianic Times inviting me to get together with him, I had many thoughts going through my mind. The last communication I had received from him was an email questioning the need for two different news sources for the Messianic community. Not knowing Paul as well as I do today, my initial response was to take this in a negative light. However, I accepted his invitation to meet in Arizona, while we were attending a conference hosted by Messianic Rabbi Jonathan Bernis. As Paul spoke the first few words at our meeting, I realized that his email to me was not intended to encourage me to get out of the way, so that the larger, better known news source could take full control of the “market.” Rather, it was his way of opening a conversation with me that would bring unity to our works, allowing our team effort to be stronger together than either individual source on its own. The day I started www.messianicdailynews.com almost 7 years ago, the Messianic Times website had not been updated in almost a year. I saw a need for a Messianic news site that could show every day the vastness of the growing Messianic movement. The Messianic Times was well known, but their Internet presence was not. Over the years that Paul has been overseeing the Messianic Times, he has directed a tremendous upgrade to the website. But it was still only updating each time the newspaper was distributed. Meanwhile, www.messianicdailynews.com was providing Messianic news on a daily basis. The two websites grew in readership, and were fulfilling their goals and purposes. However, it was clear that while both sites also were functioning well, they were providing only half a service. The Messianic Times brought in-depth articles about the Messianic community, previously five, and now six times a year. While www.messianicdailynews.com provided daily updates and articles to keep people informed about the growing Messianic movement, it didn’t provide a print edition and all of the benefits it can bring. It was Paul’s desire to form an alliance that would merge together our two news sources, aiming for the same goal, combining the strengths of both efforts to complement the two venues, and bring a more complete news service to our community. The Messianic Timess will still bring a print edition six times a year, and the website will continue to bring its articles to the virtual edition. At the same time, www.messianicdailynews.com will provide daily news articles. It is my hope that our whole movement will grasp Paul’s vision, which encourages complementation instead of competition, as we strive to provide together the best news coverage possible. MT

Messianic News Briefs by Susan Perlman essianic news has recently made a splash much” about the Holocaust. In France, have any affiliation with Jews for Jesus, Tablet, The Huffington Post, The Jewish Min Jewish, Christian and secular media. the overall level of anti-Semitism Messianic Judaism, or similar movements,” Chronicle, The Atlantic Wire, and The Here are some recent highlights: increased by 24 percent compared to the Levine affirmed. Daily Beast (Newsweek) picked it up, as ADL’s 2009 poll. well. Contacted by JFJ, Politico changed Jews and Evangelicals n In the Los Angeles Times, writer Mitchell its headline to Messianic Jewish Group Writing in the Jewish Journal, nationally- Anti-Missionary Sighting Landsberg summarized Rabbi Shmuley Paid Rick Santorum, and the above- syndicated radio talk-show host Dennis Yisrael Medad, an American-born Boteach’s book, Kosher Jesus. “It focuses mentioned magazines followed suit.” Prager shared, “The fear of Christian commentator living in Israel, was not happy on the Christian savior’s Jewishness, missionaries that pervades Jewish life” is with the new Jews for Jesus documentary, portraying him as a hero who stood up to Messer Fiasco Unifies Jewish “out of all proportion to its reality.” Prager Awakening, that covers the organization’s Roman rule of Palestine and paid with his Response apprised that after almost every lecture he annual New York City summer witnessing life. In keeping with Jewish theology, it does The Associated Press covered the bizarre has given, a member of the audience “asked campaign. On camera, JFJ Executive not accept his resurrection or his divinity. service at New Birth Missionary Baptist about Jews for Jesus and how to counter their Director David Brickner stated, “We come And it emphasizes Boteach’s belief that Church in the Atlanta area, where Ralph threat.” Prager’s response: “We should be far to New York to make the Messiahship of the New Testament intentionally deflected Messer, who calls himself a Messianic more concerned with Jews for Nothing than Jesus an unavoidable issue.” blame for the crucifixion from the ruling rabbi, instructed two men to slowly with Jews for Jesus.” Romans and redirected it—unfairly, wrap Bishop Eddie Long in a large Torah Boteach believes—on the shoulders of the scroll. Jews.” Landsberg noted, “One might expect Christians to take exception. But Boteach’s Jewish critics were way ahead of the curve.” Rabbi Yitzchok Wolf of Chicago accused, “Boteach’s latest book is apikorsus (heresy) and must be treated as such.” But the only part of the treatise Wolf had read was the title! It is “forbidden for anyone to buy or “Well, it can be avoided. It need be read this book, or give its author a platform avoided,” retorted Medad on his blog. On in any way, shape or form to discuss this the positive side, Medad also quoted JFJ’s topic,” wrote Immanuel Schochet, a Jewish Demographics mission statement, thereby inadvertently prominent Orthodox rabbi in Toronto. Long was seated in a plush chair, n The Baptist Press estimated the current sharing the Gospel with readers. “Boteach “is an Orthodox rabbi with covered in a prayer shawl while holding number of Jews in Israel who believe in Jesus few scholarly credentials and limited the Torah, and lifted by four men. to be at 20,000, with about 150 Messianic Critiquing a Jewish Jesus credibility in the academic world,” Ira Responding, Rabbi David Shiff of Jewish congregations. The Jewish Journal interviewed Professors Chernus charged in Religion Dispatches. Congregation Beth Hallel in Roswell, Amy-Jill Levine and Marc Brettler of As Professor of Religious Studies at Georgia, denounced the act. “Ralph n HM Magazine announced there are 284 Vanderbilt and Brandeis Universities the University of Colorado, Chernus Messer in no way represents Messianic active Messianic congregations in the United respectively, about their book, The Jewish challenged Boteach’s claims that the Judaism…I found the presentation to be States and Canada, not counting small house- Annotated New Testament. In supporting source of “most of Jesus’ statements was repulsive and inappropriate.” church fellowships. the work, Levine assured that the New the Talmud. “The Talmud was compiled “The notion that he wraps Bishop Testament is an excellent source for Jewish at the earliest some four centuries after Long in a Torah is horrifying,” asserted n The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) life in the first century. She added their Jesus died, and only an infinitesimal Bill Nigut of the ADL, “simply because released a poll on March 20, 2012, a day research also “addresses the statements portion of its words are attributed to it’s completely inappropriate. It’s an after the shooting at a Jewish school in that have led to anti-Jewish views, such as rabbis who might have lived before awful way to use the Torah, and it doesn’t Toulouse, France. It showed that anti-Semitic texts that present the Jewish community as Jesus’ time.” in any way approximate any Jewish attitudes in 10 European countries remain at responsible for the death of Jesus.” Brettler ritual.” “disturbingly high levels.” The opinion survey identified two Christian beliefs “that do U.S. Politics Stereotypes Our Movement Additionally, the Jewish Telegraphic of 5,000 adults, conducted from January 2 to not inform our Jewishness”; that the Politico disclosed that the Messianic Agency reported that The Union of 31, 2012, revealed “Pernicious anti-Semitic Messiah has already come and will come Jewish Alliance of America paid Rick Messianic Jewish Congregations and the beliefs continue to be held by nearly one- again, and that God appeared on earth in Santorum $6,000 to speak at its 2010 Messianic Jewish Alliance of America third of those surveyed.” Classic anti-Semitic incarnate form. annual conference. After Politico issued a statement in which they agreed, notions included Jews having too much “We have no interest in converting erroneously indicated in its headline “We join our voices with the wider power in business, being more loyal to Israel people from Judaism to Christianity… that Jews for Jesus paid Santorum, Jewish community in condemning this than their own countries, and “talking too nor do either of us, as some have guessed, other major online media including action.” MT

6 The Messianic Times May/June 2012 MessianicPerspective

Messianic Daily News by Eric Tokajer Can a Prophet Come Out of Jersey? by Chad Elliot essianic Rabbi Jonathan Earth, which examined what the MCahn has accomplished Bible had to say about the end many things in his years as a of the world. This opened up spiritual leader. If you’d asked new areas of investigation, and him a year ago if he expected to he started reading the Hebrew become a first-time novelist on Scriptures. the New York Times best-seller “I began seeing prophecies list, he might have laughed. Yet of the Messiah,” he recalls, “things he’s accomplished just that with that I thought were only Catholic. his book, The Harbinger. As the They were talking about Yeshua. I head of Beth Israel Worship began to believe a little, at least in Center in Wayne, New Jersey, he my head.” attributes his success to following Jonathan was living a life the leading of the Lord. that wasn’t remotely godly, but His father fled Germany to he was so excited, he started escape from Hitler and the Nazis, talking to other people about while his mother’s family escaped what he was studying. Not yet a from Russia, and was raised in believer himself, he somehow led a Reform Jewish household. As individuals to faith in Messiah! a child, he attended synagogue “This went on through my and Sunday school, but being the adolescence,” he smiles. “I was son of scientists, he simply didn’t like a spotlight getting more and life, he would accept Him on his Jonathan’s fruitfulness in see any evidence of God. At the more focused, until I realized Jonathan connected tender age of eight, he became an that it wasn’t just reading the deathbed. Shortly after, Jonathan ministry. Under the auspices of was involved in a traumatic car Hope of the World, the outreach avowed atheist. Several years later, Bible, it was Yeshua, and it wasn’t the dots to allow people he came to the conclusion that just believing in one’s mind, but accident that nearly ended his arm of the congregation, life. While driving to college one Jonathan has a daily teaching, there had to be something deeper surrendering your life and living to see the hand of God that defined the meaning of life, for Him. But I didn’t want to night, his Ford Pinto accidentally The Nice Jewish Boy, which is ended up on the tracks in the transmitted on hundreds of radio and began seeking more answers do it. I figured if you became a dealing with America than atheism could provide. believer, it meant checking into a path of an oncoming train. As programs. Jonathan has become He began reading widely monastery. I thought you had to the locomotive crashed into aware that Orthodox Jews listen about science, religion, the give up anything good.” the car, Jonathan cried out to to him regularly, some of whom Paul’s Chapel. It had been knocked occult, and even UFO books. His Instead, Jonathan attempted God. Although the vehicle was he knows to be “secret believers” down by falling debris when the explorations led to reading Hal to make a deal with God. He destroyed, he didn’t receive as in Yeshua. Jonathan also hosts a first tower fell. Something about Lindsey’s The Late, Great Planet told Him if he received a long much as a scratch. In the wake television program, Something this image stuck with him. of this miracle, he discovered Different, and both broadcasts Jonathan confides, “I was Jonathan Cahn gazes at the skyline of New York City, nothing could be more Jewish have resulted in people coming led to Isaiah 9:10: The bricks have across the Hudson River from Ground Zero than to follow Messiah, and to receive Yeshua. fallen, but we will rebuild with placed his faith in Yeshua. His work has become a hewn stone; the sycamores have Jonathan helped found worldwide outreach that includes been cut down, but we will plant Beth Israel in 1983, a fellowship ministry as well as spreading with cedars in their place. This that began in the home of Gary awareness of the international became a puzzle, whose solution Selman, Jonathan’s partner in a persecuted and underground connects the fall of ancient Israel weekly call-in radio program, Two Church. Jonathan says that one of to disturbing times in today’s Nice Jewish Boys. the most fascinating places God society. “I met Jonathan in 1979,” has led him is Mizoram, a state in “The Biblical kingdom Selman remembers. “He worked northeastern India. of northern Israel received as a security guard in a building “An Oriental tribe known nine harbingers prior to its next door. Beth Israel began as the Bnei Menashe lives there,” destruction,” explains Jonathan, under the auspices of Pastor he enthuses. “They trace their “and they’re re-appearing on Charlie Rizzo, and initially we met roots back to the Israelite tribe of American soil. People are taking in my living room. In just a couple Manasseh, and to this day, they part in these things, not knowing of years, we grew from five people maintain Jewish customs and what’s actually happening.” to 50. In the fall of 1987, God told traditions. As the world became At Beth Israel, Jonathan began me to ordain Jonathan as leader.” aware of them, some made aliyah. preaching the meaning of these Selman indicates this We traveled to India to teach them harbingers as the revelation of an decision has been confirmed they could be Jewish and believe ancient Biblical mystery behind in the years since. He describes in Yeshua.” everything—from the attacks of Jonathan as one of the most Given his congregation’s 9/11 to the sudden drop in the humble men he’s ever met. “In close proximity to New York City, American economy in 2008—so 30 years, I have never seen him it was inevitable that the events specific that it ordains the very get angry or heard him raise his of September 11 would affect words of our nation’s leaders! voice to anyone. He is gentle, full Jonathan and those he leads. In 2005, he wrote what of humor, and kind.” When he speaks of the attacks, became The Harbinger. Drawing Annette Iasso, longtime his jovial manner gets a bit more inspiration from the admonition administrator at Beth Israel, agrees serious. of Proverbs 15:2: The tongue of the with Selman. She began attending “My wife Renata was wise makes knowledge attractive, in 1996, and she and her husband meant to be at the World Trade he offers the non-fiction prophetic quickly realized that they didn’t Center that morning, but her message in the framework of a want to worship anywhere else. plans changed,” he reflects. “Two fictional narrative. “Jonathan has one of the members of the congregation “It’s a unique method of most beautiful qualities,” she were inside one of the towers and presentation,” praises Steven beams, “in that he is always even. made it out to safety. I knew even Strang, CEO of Charisma Media. He cares for his sheep, and there then there was some spiritual “I don’t know of anyone else is a genuine intimacy with the significance to 9/11.” who’s done it. Jonathan connected Lord that comes out through his In November 2004, while the dots to allow people to see teaching.” visiting Ground Zero, Jonathan the hand of God dealing with The walls of his fellowship spotted the remains of a sycamore America.” have certainly not bound tree that had stood in nearby St. 4Continued on page 21

May/June 2012 The Messianic Times 7 M Messianic

My name is Avital. It means “Father of dew” in Hebrew and refers to God Avital Guernsey testimony as Sustainer. I work two jobs and attend MY community college part time. I’m not sure what degree I’m aiming for, but I know I want to be a writer. I was born in Israel, I’ve been attending a Messianic congregation since the age of five, my parents speak Hebrew, and— I’m not Jewish! My parents, who are both Christians, have been interested in the Jewish roots of their faith since before they were married. For instance, while on their honeymoon in the Bahamas, they bought a menorah not knowing what it was; only that it came from Israel. As they settled into married life, they began to sense God calling them to move to my hs graduation the Holy Land. w/big sis me Following two years of serious prayer, study and counsel, they volunteered to work then! for over a year on Ein Hamifratz, a kibbutz near Haifa. Upon leaving the kibbutz, they relocated to Haifa, where my older sister, Talia, was born. Their next home was in Tiberias, where I came into the world in Poriya, a small town nearby. When we moved again, it was to Germany, where my dad worked for the United States Army. I was a baby, so I don’t remember much. My little brother, Asher, was born there. I professed my belief in the Savior in front of the Sunday school at our church when I was three. And it’s where I attended kindergarten. When I was five, we returned to the United States, to Indianapolis, Indiana. Searching for a fellowship to attend in the area, and having already visited a number of me the more traditional Christian churches, my parents decided to look in the phone book now! under “Synagogues, Messianic.” They found one entry, called Charam Yeshua. Having retained their love for Israel and the Jewish people, we tried it, we liked it, and it’s been my spiritual home ever since. It now goes by the name Ahavat Yeshua. I grew up identifying as a “Messianic a youth leader to make an exception and allow me to go. Those six months were the best experiences of my life. Gentile,” with memories of Christmas She very gently denied my request, leaving me, still a pre- We were like one big, extended family. I could hop on the mornings and Easter baskets mixed with teen, feeling devastated. Anticipation, of course, heightens bus whenever I wanted to go into Jerusalem. I even had an lighting the Hanukkah candles, spinning enjoyment, and my first Messiah Conference in 2000 became accidental cameo in a special report by Channel 2 news, the dreidel, and eating matzah ball soup. I well worth the wait. I began to attend annually. regarding Messianic Jews; the story was partially filmed remember sometimes finding it difficult to In 2006, I came home from the conference desiring to at Yad Hashmona. I must have been working too hard to explain my lifestyle to people. I’d tell them visit Israel. There was no big “aha” moment of realization; I notice the camera crew, because I had absolutely no idea “I go to a Messianic Jewish congregation. It’s just knew that was what I was supposed to do. When I told that I was caught on tape. It’s a bit surprising when you’re Jews who believe in Yeshua, Jesus, as the Son my parents I wanted to volunteer, just as they had, they relaxing on a Friday night—in a foreign country, no less— of God and Savior of the world.” agreed. Someone had recently even mentioned to them a and people keep walking through the door, saying they saw “Oh, so you’re Jewish.” moshav (village) near Jerusalem called Yad Hashmona—the you on television. “No, I’m not Jewish.” only moshav of believers in Israel. I loved traveling around the countryside. I walked “Then why do you go there?” Finding the website, I learned that “Yad Hashmona,” through the Old City to the Western Wall, and spent a night Why not? I couldn’t understand why sometimes written Yad Ha8, means “Memorial to the Eight.” on the shore of the Dead Sea, walking up Masada in the others were puzzled. Why did other Gentile It is the name given by the founding settlers in memory of morning, and then back down. I was actually able to take a believers refer to the churches they attended eight Jewish refugees who were surrendered by the Finns trip to Tiberias and visit the congregation our family attended as being “normal”? In my mind, normal meant to the Gestapo in November 1942, leading to the deaths in a long time ago. Someone remembered my dad, and asked if services on Friday nights, liturgy in Hebrew, Auschwitz of all but one. my dad still told jokes. He does. and dancing during worship. I loved it, and “The Finnish founders of the Moshav wished Five years later, back in Indiana, I realize the increasing I enjoyed being part of it. Perhaps the most to somehow atone on behalf of their nation,” I read, significance of connecting to the place where I was born, valuable lesson, looking back, was seeing “and they viewed their contribution to the Land of even if it causes some problems. Think: “Place of birth, Israel. that God had me exactly where He wanted Israel as a public request for forgiveness.” Additionally, Extra scrutiny at Ben Gurion airport, anyone?” me, and that even though I was tucked in they “desired to contribute their share to the Zionist My dad asks me on a semi-regular basis if I’m planning to Indiana, He was planting a desire in my heart movement. They also wished to express their gratitude return there. I tell him I don’t know—and I really don’t. Until that would take me again to Israel. to the God of Israel, who blessed all the nations with the very recently, I didn’t realize that I think of Israel as my home. The Messianic Jewish Alliance of America gift of the Messiah Yeshua.” The thought makes me literally sob from the power of my (MJAA) holds an annual international I pulled together my references, and mailed in my emotions. It terrifies me to think of the future, the inevitable conference at Messiah College in Grantham, application. To my delight, I was accepted. Everyone was period of time prophesized in Zechariah 14:1-2, when all the Pennsylvania, attracting Messianic believers thrilled, and in January, 2007, one week following my nations will abandon this vital strip of land that is so small, yet far and wide. I was 12 when my older sister sister’s wedding—I couldn’t miss that—I got on a plane so important. first attended. You had to be thirteen to headed for Tel Aviv. Assigned to work in housekeeping I fear for you, Israel. I weep for you, and I love you. God participate in youth group activities. My for the moshav guest house, which was a small, intimate knew what He was doing with my life before it began. I must birthday, though, fell only one week short hotel, I fell into the job quickly, eventually becoming the trust that He still knows exactly what He’s doing—not only of the conference date. I cried and begged “head of shift” most days. for me, but also as the Sustainer of the nation of my birth. MY

8 The Messianic Times May/June 2012 Messianic Survey

Kosher: Is it What’s for Dinner? by Mandie Greenberg ashrut (kosher laws) is the act of abiding by the dietary laws outlined mainly in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, which has long been commonly Kassociated with Jewish identity. And while rabbinical commentary has added to these laws, Jews, as a people, have held these commands as a precious part of their existence. In many cultures, the universal language of food brings people together, but kashrut has, for centuries, separated the Jewish people from the rest of the world. Generally, kashrut is divided into two levels of observance, based on the origins of their guidelines. Keeping Biblical kashrut is selecting foods according to the exact rules given to Moses by HaShem in the Torah. Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, Genesis 9:4, Leviticus 19:23 and Leviticus 23:14 continue to direct how the Hebrews were to eat. Rabbinical kashrut took both that which is written in Torah, as well as teachings and interpretations from the Talmud and Midrash, and enlarge them over time. One example is the command given in Exodus 23:19, 34:26 and Deuteronomy 14:21, where it is made clear not to “cook a kid (baby goat) in its mother’s milk.” The interpretations of these verses ultimately led to a separation of meat and milk products. Separate kitchens, plates and utensils are commonplace in a household that follows rabbinical kosher. However, over the course of migration around the world, fractures between sects within Judaism and the adopting of western ways of eating, current generations have varying views and convictions about this age-old subject. We approached four young Jewish believers in Yeshua and asked them the following questions: M 1. What does “keeping kosher” mean to you? 2. Considering both the Old and New Covenants, do you believe it is important for Jews, including those who believe in Yeshua, to honor this tradition?

Despite assimilation into the American way of life, each participant still maintains the strong cultural awareness that has followed the Jewish samantha degorskey zachary morel jen dodsworth ariel rabe people for centuries.

Zachary Morel, 20, of Jennifer Dodsworth, 25 of convictions on the subject. “The my mother. I still don’t know all is trusting that God knows what Clearwater, Florida, gave us Phoenix, Arizona, explains her 613 mitzvot in the Torah were the rules and regulations. I’ve is good for our bodies. In John insight into how he observes very different opinions. “It seems put in place to separate the never made it a huge issue in 14:15, Yeshua says that if we kashrut. “To me, kosher is what like the word “kosher” has taken Jewish people and mark them my life. I think I like bacon too love Him, then we will keep his God wrote in the Torah, through on the same obscurity as “to be as different and holy, but none much!” she laughs. “But lately, commands. I believe that kashrut Moses. It’s all clearly written in Jewish.” To be Jewish is hard to can uphold them all, hence the I’ve been getting convicted is still relevant. It not only joins us the Old Testament. I grew up not directly define, as is kosher. This need for sacrifices. Yeshua is the about it. Keeping kosher is a with countless generations before eating the two main unclean word has many definitions, be only one who has ever upheld marker of Jewish people, and as us, it connects us to the very meats: pork and shellfish. it “Biblically kosher” which to all 613, thus being the ultimate a Jew, I want to pass on some Word of God itself. If I’m going to But recently, my family and I my knowledge means to not sacrifice for us all. Now that we kind of stability and identity live this life, then observing the have taken to keeping a more consume “unclean animals” such are living under Yeshua’s grace, to my future children. Right dietary laws is a critical part of it. rabbinical diet. About two or as pork, bottom feeder fish, and we can live under grace as new now, I’m growing into it. As I Being Jewish and not keeping three years ago, my father and animals without cloven hooves. creations. The Holy Spirit now learn more and start to live my it doesn’t make sense to me. I brother started separating meat As for the ultra-Orthodox, there lives within us because we are heritage, matters like these will know people who keep kosher and milk. I just followed suit. are the separate dishes, no cleansed by the blood of Yeshua. take on more significance in my at home, but when they go out Now, all the plates in our kitchen meat eaten with dairy. When I We are redeemed, so we can have life. I think it is important for us to eat, they throw it aside. I don’t are color-coded and the shelves was in Israel, it meant choosing a right relationship with God to keep this tradition. It’s just seem to understand how people in our refrigerator are designated whether you wanted a meal and have a direct relationship to taking some time for me.” can do it. It seems hypocritical. for one or the other. When I go to with meat or with dairy because Him, through the His shed blood. But, I know for sure that my future a restaurant, I decide if I’m going the restaurants only served one I do not believe that kashrut is Ariel Rabe, 25, of Baltimore, generations will maintain this to have a meat dish or a dairy or the other. And I’ve taken to necessary for Jewish people who Maryland, shares his heart. “I practice, wherever they are.” dish, and look for something that asking people, “Is that kosher?” believe in Yeshua, because it does follow Biblical kosher, according won’t mix the two. I believe Jews as if asking “’is this okay’”? I didn’t not bring about salvation. That is to the book of Leviticus. When Though all the participants should keep kosher, because it’s grow up keeping kosher, nor do already ours, because of what He I was born, my family didn’t are relatively young, it is important to not lose sight of I now. My mother, who is Jewish, did on the cross.” keep kosher, but once I was interesting to note that three who we are as a people. God set was raised “kosher-ish.” Her a toddler it became a regular out of four expressed a concern up this regimen of consuming parents weren’t very strict about While Jennifer’s base of know- part of our lives. So, for as for their future progeny. clean foods, and to set us apart. it. We never really talked about ledge allows her to draw a long as I can remember, I’ve Despite assimilation into the Personally, keeping kosher is a it. But my mother’s grandparents strong conclusion, Samantha kept it. I made the conscious American way of life, each part of the worship and honor I were devout, having two sets of DeGorskey, 20, of Troy, Michigan, decision to keep kosher myself one still maintains the strong give the Lord on a daily basis. I dishes and two dishwashers. Even admits her lack of research after my bar mitzvah. I was cultural awareness that has want to pass this on to my future so, my mother was so horrible at into the topic. “I didn’t grow up becoming a man, according to followed the Jewish people for children. Whether or not it will cooking pork chops that I grew practicing any kind of Judaism. Judaism, and made the choice centuries. However, with such be rabbinical will also depend up avoiding them. My father Most of my life has been spent in a to start observing the Torah differing viewpoints, it appears on my spouse, but at the very doesn’t like seafood or shellfish, non-Jewish church setting. About for myself. That really solidified that keeping kosher is deeply least, I want my family to hold so I almost grew up slightly two years ago, my father got in it for me. I think it’s important personal; a commitment that on to what is outlined in the kosher, if that makes sense.” touch with his Jewish heritage and to our identity, customs and every person needs to make Jennifer reveals her personal soon began keeping kosher, as did health. Part of keeping kosher Scriptures.” for themselves. MY May/June 2012 The Messianic Times 9 CongregationalProfile

Ahava B’Shem Yeshua by Nancy Kurrack hile many Messianic assemblies have a minority of Jewish Wmembers, it’s unusual to find a Gentile-led congregation where a very large portion of the members come from Conservative and Orthodox backgrounds. Ahava B’Shem Yeshua is located in one of the ten best places to live in America today: Prescott, Arizona (according to various magazines). So how did this amazing phenomenon come about? It all began with a rather unlikely non-Jewish couple. Al Rodriguez came from an Hispanic, Catholic family and was a regional manager in a very high profile company. His wife Diana, better known as Dee, came from Michigan, where she was raised in the Mormon Church. When they married, God was not in the equation. “In 1986, I was driving home from work in Orange County, California, when a question popped into my mind,” recalls Dee. “What is life really all about?” Life was throwing her some curves and her search for answers had officially begun. Several weeks later, she received an outreach letter from Saddleback Valley Community Church in Mission Viejo, and attended one of their services. “Pastor Rick Warren seemed to be speaking directly to me with John 8:32: You shall know the truth and the truth will set you free. Then, a shaft of light, what Above: Davidic worship at Ahava B’Shem Yeshua. Below: Leaders Dee and Al Rodriguez, Cantor Larry Satren and wife Laura. I now know to be God’s Shekinah glory, suddenly enveloped her. “Before I knew it, I was praying to commit my entire life the Messiah.” Near the end of the meeting came a to a new-found Jesus.” Very quickly she knew her world was moment of clarity when she accepted Yeshua as “The getting put into order. Promised One.” “My life has completely changed Al was afraid to become a “Jesus freak,” but he followed suit focus since then and I no longer feel that spiritual within a year after drilling Pastor Warren with questions. With his emptiness inside,” she boldly tells everyone. anchor finally set on God, life was good. In 1990, he decided to go That same afternoon Laura invited her husband into business for himself. Two years later, Al and Dee moved to Larry to the following Shabbat at the Rodriguez Palm Springs, where they first attended Calvary Chapel. guest house. He was famous for saying he would try Dee started noticing Brookie Escott at many of her Bible anything once. Larry and Al immediately hit it off, studies, but it took a year for her to officially meet this Jewish but Larry knew the Hebrew language and wanted woman. Brookie had been teaching the Hebrew roots of the to take it slowly. “Show me,” became his motto. The Christian faith in the Palm Springs area and once the two of clincher came in Isaiah 53 with the description of them got together, they became fast friends. Although Brookie the Messiah. later moved to Israel, she was the one who introduced Al and Laura also wasted no time telling her Jewish Dee to Steve Babkow’s Messianic congregation, Ohav Shalom. friend, Sharon Sablofsky, about Dee’s Bible study. At this point the Rodriguezes delved deeper into their faith and Sharon, who came from a very Orthodox family, enjoyed a second burst of spiritual growth. already knew about Yeshua and heaven at the age of One day, while deep in prayer, Al heard a voice. “Move to eight. She had been told she was dying of asthma and Prescott, Arizona.” Dee questioned him because it didn’t make knew there had to be more to God than what she had any sense. Sure, they were moving towards retirement, but been taught. At 14, she was secretly reading the B’rit they had a beautiful home in Rancho Mirage, all their family Hadasha (New Testament). lived close by, and Al was still the CEO of a very prosperous Sharon was so excited about Dee’s classes that business. “You’d better pray some more,” Dee suggested. They she actually invited herself to attend. Later, she both knew “voices” needed to be tested. and her daughter, Leesa, asked to be immersed “No matter how many times I prayed,” Al recalls, “the (baptized). They found themselves part of a core message was clear as day.” Out of obedience, they made the group of eight people who joined Al and Dee in the move in 2004. As they were settling into their new home and formation of the new kehila(congregation). They community of 36,000 people, they realized there were no quickly outgrew the guesthouse and relocated in Hebraic congregations in the entire metro-plex area. the basement of the local Alliance Bible Church. Al decided to ask his friend Paul Liberman, publisher of “We knew immediately it was the perfect place for the Messianic Times, what they should do for fellowship. Paul us, because it had the most beautiful menorah banner clearly remembers. “You may have to start something on your hanging near the altar,” Dee reflects. Soon, even the own, Al. You wouldn’t be the first to hang out a shingle.” fellowship hall couldn’t contain the new Messianic Al really didn’t think he was in any position to try his hand assembly, and they were allowed to move into the at ministry, but he was serious enough with the Lord to make a main sanctuary for Saturday services. commitment. He would open his guesthouse for a year to see “Al always tells his people that he is just a if people wanted to join them in worship and study. Some of business man who has a vision for Israel,” shares the first people the couple attracted were Jewish. Paul Liberman, “but that’s just part of his charm. reflects the hard work Al has put in all the years. He’s Al met Ofer Harel at the gym. He had attended a local He is still running his business and people don’t stepped out of his comfort zone, taken a leadership synagogue, but his sister and brother-in-law in Florida had even know that Dee and Al never take any of the role in teaching the Scriptures, and placed the spiritual been praying for someone to witness to Ofer and his wife, offerings as salary.” A tithe from their weekly needs of his people above his own.” Shoshana. It began with a barbeque at the Rodriguez’s home, tzedakah box goes to the rent for the facilities, and Ahava B’Shem Yeshua is planning a new outreach and the couple ended up accepting Yeshua. the rest of the funds go directly to two different into the greater metro-area to hold monthly Friday It was Shoshana who invited her Orthodox friend, Laura ministries in The Land. night services in nearby Cottonwood and Camp Satren, to one of Dee’s weekday women’s Bible studies. “Oh, Today, just seven years after Al and Dee’s bold step Verde. “We never had any idea God would use us to I’m not interested in that!” Laura retorted. She ended up of faith, Ahava B’Shem Yeshua is thriving. Nearly 100 lead a Messianic congregation,” Al admits, but the saying “Yes,” though to this day, she doesn’t know why! people attend each Shabbat, and the group is alive accolades the couple hear from the synagogue sounds Laura and her husband Larry had also been attending a with singing, dancing, rich fellowship and festival like a symphony of praise. traditional synagogue. Larry had even served as vice-president observance. In fact, over 200 people traditionally “For me, there’s no greater gift than seeing Jews on their board, but they felt something was missing. During attend their Passover seders. “We enjoy inviting the and Christians coming together and holding hands in Dee’s class, Laura folded her arms tightly and determined not entire community to experience the Lord’s feasts,” praise and prayer,” Al concludes. “People who attend to say a word. She was Jewish and had never been exposed to Dee beams. say they’ve never before felt so much love among the Book of John. In January of 2012, Al was ordained as a believers.” Of course, this is produced by Adonai For two straight hours Laura could not stop asking Messianic rabbi by the International Alliance of shining through Al and Dee. Powered by the Ruach questions. She later confessed to the group, “I hadn’t even Messianic Congregations and Synagogues in Florida. haKodesh, the fruit of their labors is a work not yet told my husband that I had been wondering if Jesus was truly Paul Liberman was there for the ceremony. “This complete. MT

10 The Messianic Times May/June 2012 M by M David at home in his study

veryone wants to be remem- Ebered for something unique or import Born in 1936, a poor sharec his wife, Kim, and said, “There’s no me without her.” MT

May/June 2012 The Messianic Times 11 JewishHistoryinAmerica

What’s in a Name? by Miryam Meier-Howard There’s a story of a Jewish immigrant on a ship to America. A fellow traveler tells him his name sounds too Jewish, and suggests a new one before they arrive in New York. When the Ellis Island clerk asks the new immigrant his name, he becomes flustered, crying out in Yiddish: “Shoyn fargessen!” (I already forgot!) The immigration officer stamps the papers that bear the name: Sean Ferguson.

Gary Mokotoff Ellis Island

ary Mokotoff is a brilliant American were strangely not needed to board a ship who went undercover as a Jew for a His daughter Frummie recalls, “My father Ggenealogist. At 74, he refuses to to the United States. Even the correct newspaper article. Assuming the name always feared that should he revert to his relinquish his passion for research, as spelling of a name was considered rather of Greenberg, the plot depicts the lack of original last name, he might be deported new projects continue to beckon him. unimportant, as many passengers could acceptance in business, community, and if the Canadian government discovered his He is the author of several books and not even spell their names. “One thing social arenas, based on having a Jewish real age. So he kept that last name until the founder of Avotaynu, an organization about Jewish men is that no matter how name. Gentlemen’s Agreement received an day he died. On the back of his headstone that publishes genealogical materials and poor they were, they had a very high rate Oscar nomination for Best Picture. I wrote the true names of my parents and hosts an Internet database. of literacy, due to the tradition of studying The search for family lineage can take relatives, as they had all been murdered in In 1959, his expertise as a pioneer the Holy Scriptures.” Each passenger us down a winding trail of fascinating the camps, and of course had nothing to of the computer software industry with would receive a manifest card to fill out historical intrigue. Provided with Internet mark their graves.” IBM segued him into co-authoring the before their departure. They were asked databases and genealogical research sites, In 1947, the Canadian government Daitch-Mokotoff Soundex System and about their age, occupation, race, whether one can discover facts about ancestry granted permission for 1,000 Jewish war the JewishGen Family Finder, which they could read, next of kin, how much which might otherwise be lost. This orphans to enter their country. Members provides a database of ancestral towns money they had in their possession, if insurgence of information is especially of the Canadian Jewish Congress and the and surnames used by Jewish genealogical they were polygamists or anarchists, and exciting amid the prophetic return of the United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation researchers throughout the world. physical description. Jewish people, as written in the book of Administration worked to find orphans “Name changes never occurred at If the passenger could not write, Ezekiel: Surely I will take the children of under the age of 18 and to facilitate their Ellis Island, or any other United States a special clerk would be assigned to Israel from among the nations, wherever relocating to Canada. Less fortunate ports, such as Boston, Baltimore, or assist. The name recorded on each card they have gone, and will gather them from survivors remained in orphanages and Philadelphia,” Mokotoff reveals. “It’s was used to create a manifest list, and every side and bring them into their own displaced persons camps for years after a great myth. A clerk always spoke the was considered a legal document. After land (Chapter 37:21). the war, waiting for the international native tongue of the new arrival, and 1921, the U.S. required newcomers to At 19, Mordecai Lempel, a young community to determine their fate. worked from a list complied when the obtain a passport from their country of boy from Rajeov, Poland, had survived The survival of Jewish surnames passengers boarded.” Since foreigners origin before traveling to America. Once the loss of his entire family to the ovens over the decades has been turbulent. would not be accepted into Ellis Island processed from Ellis Island, Moreno of Auschwitz. At the end of the war, there Ronald Waling, a prominent doctor in without proper documentation, the points out, new names were often selected. were 250,000 displaced Jewish refugees the Pacific Northwest, relays his family’s shipping companies were very careful to There was a massive cultural phenomenon in Europe, among them, many orphans. name change. “My great-grandfather was check paperwork and ensure its accuracy of Jewish immigrants modifying their There were very few choices open to these the Governor of Malta in the early 1800s to avoid having to return the immigrant names. Moshe became Murray, Rachel survivors. Most had no homes, and few and was nicknamed Mad Jack, due to his home at the company’s expense. This isn’t became Rose.” countries were willing to admit them. eccentric character.” Waling’s Maltese to say that family names weren’t altered Hollywood made a profound stand While staying in the displaced persons surname, Azzopardi, was derived from the after they came to America; however, it in 1947, when Gentlemen’s Agreement hit camp of Feldafing, Bavaria, Lempel word Sephardi, referring to the Sephardic was not due to the system of immigration the silver screen. Despite the controversial heard that Canada was sympathetic to Jews. Despite this lineage, Azzopardis in officials. The two most common reasons subject matter, the filming commenced, war orphans. However, to qualify for Malta have been Roman Catholic since for changing names were pronunciation but not before Samuel Goldwyn and citizenship, he could not be older than 18. 1492, when Jews were ordered to convert difficulties and anti-Semitic attitudes.” other Jewish film executives approached Feldafing, Bavaria to Catholicism or be persecuted. Ronald’s Millions of immigrants, once landed, producer Darryl Zanuck, and asked him grandmother married the Duke of Waling voluntarily shortened their names to fit not to go through with it, fearing it would in the mid-1800s. In 1908, his father in with the culture. Chaikowsky became “stir up trouble.” moved to the United States and changed Shaw, and Manowicz became Manners. his name to Waling, partly due to a falling Endings such as,” berg” and “ski” were out with his father, coupled with the eliminated. Others chose an easier 4Continued on page 27 phonetic spelling. Minc was changed to Mintz. Secondarily, anti-Semitic attitudes Malta were widespread. A Jewish name meant unemployment in the 1920s. At this time, Mordecai befriended a Barry Moreno is both the author, younger man named Moshe Horowitz, librarian and historian at the Statue of also in the displaced persons camp. Moshe Liberty National Monument and the chose to depart for Israel on a ship called Ellis Island Immigration Museum in Exodus, under the radar of the British New York. He possesses an encyclopedia- Shortly after the war, many Americans authorities. Moshe had no need of a like mind, as he describes details about were beginning to realize the depth of passport, so he offered his own to Lempel. the immigration process. He shares that anti-Semitism. The movie portrayed With a new identity and strong desire to fit before 1921, passports and official papers Gregory Peck as a skeptical journalist, into a better society, he settled in Canada. 12 The Messianic Times May/June 2012 MessianicMinistry

Women’s Retreat Advances Unity by Carol Calise t is a simple concept: a women’s retreat have a plenary speaker. Even though willingly reach across—or even Ihosted by Beth Zion Messianic Congregation I am the overseer of the event, I serve ignore—denominational ties. There themed, “More Than Conquerors through simply as the mistress of ceremonies. is an unusual level of authenticity Him Who Loves Us.” What, then, made the My goal is to delegate to as many and honesty even among the annual affair this February, and now in its people as possible. In the beginning I teachers, who are often leaders or eighth season, so popular that it attracts did everything. Now I take pleasure in leaders’ wives.” registrants from a broad local and national seeing God raise up others.” Applying At the Saturday afternoon spectrum? this thought to the young adults present, workshops, Patricia Bucko, a In short answer, Messianic leaders from Marlene indicates, “In our most recent member of Beth Zion, instructed the various venues are invited to partake equally group, six of our presenters were in their art class. “Viewing the various age during the weekend, achieving a unique late 20s or early 30s. We want to give groups, backgrounds and cultures, spirit of echad (unity). As the women mingle, those who show promise an opportunity I was reminded yet again of how “relationships form beyond congregational to mature and shine. our Creator delights in variety,” she and organizational lines,” comments attendee “The initial collaboration was observes. “Yes, we are one in Messiah, Sara Chwatt. accidental. We planned a smaller gathering yet unique as daughters of the King Sara, a member of Beth Messiah in but overbooked the rooms. The only thing of Glory. As brushes and paper Livingston, New Jersey, says, “I came to to do was open it up and start calling the produced a symphony of color and deeply appreciate the sisterly bond between synagogues I knew. I was amazed that design, I sensed that for many of us, those from the Messianic Jewish Alliance of almost everyone was interested in joining art is a form of therapy. Souls are America, along with the Union of Messianic us! That first event we had 60 women quieted, refreshed and restored.” Congregations, Jews for Jesus, and many other from nine fellowships. By word of mouth, “I have been blessed here—and associations. We all exhibited genuineness and we doubled in size the next time.” This each of the eight retreats have been the transparency. I felt that is what made it so year, 168 ladies from 28 venues and 14 best ever,” quips Peggy Michalchuk, meaningful.” states filled the rooms at Pennsylvania’s In opening remarks at the 2012 event, Tuscarora Inn. “We always had it in Messianic Rebbetzin Marlene Rosenberg, our minds what the ideal conference reminded, “The number one reason for having would look like, but our retreat planning the retreat is Yeshua. He is to be kept front and committee never dreamed we’d have the center in what transpires.” With her husband, option to play it out in real life.” Jan and Marlene lead Beth Zion located in Many attendees have found the Jackson, New Jersey. retreat to be a shelter where struggles “I was overwhelmed with the heart of can be confessed without condemnation. Adonai,” relayed Emily Snyder, of Congregation “In this type of atmosphere we can be Beth El Gibbor in Easton, Pennsylvania. vulnerable, hearts can be mended and “The message about trusting God called me to a higher level of righteousness in a specific relationship that had not been wholly glorifying to Him. I felt convicted by my battles concerning a situation with a co-worker, which I found oppressive.” Four panelists expounded on the theme by teaching how to overcome in prayer, love and life. Using themselves as examples, the presenters challenged and encouraged those attending by sharing commonplace situations. Not content to communicate a “mountaintop experience” that would quickly fade once back home, practical tips were given to illustrate how to achieve and maintain the victory. “When we turn our focus on the Messiah, we master fear,” exhorted Miriam Nadler from Word of Messiah Ministries. She advised participants not to let anxiety quench the daily success promised by God. The overriding lesson over the three days was, “Don’t listen to the lies of Hell.” “Be aware of the enemy’s tactics to isolate and draw us into condemning ourselves,” advised Rebbetzin Gloria Brawer of Aytz Chaim Messianic Congregation in Boca Raton, Florida. Referring to Revelation 12:11, she proclaimed, “We can defeat the enemy through the blood of made new, and the ladies can really get to Congregational leader from Lion of old. This was my third occasion to lead a the Lamb and the word of our testimonies.” As know one another,” Marlene elaborates. Judah, Yardley, Pennsylvania. “One choral workshop. It’s always exhilarating to the source of this transformational power, Beth Zion Women’s Retreat has of the greatest gifts is the establishing and fulfilling to see the end result. After Ronna Cohen, of Jewish Voice Ministries, become a sanctuary of great refuge and renewing of relationships among a very short rehearsal, we join in perfect focused on the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) for many,” offers panelist Messianic those in the Body of Messiah. During harmony and sing our praises, directing 4Continued on page 27 and His ability to lead followers to victory. Rebbetzin Ranjiena Shulman, from Beth the mealtimes, I have gotten to hear them to an audience of One. I always look Using a variety of topics, more than El Gibor in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. amazing personal testimonies of forward to getting together, and I thank 20 teachers addressed cross-cultural and “We are challenged to grow, and we’re salvation, healing and deliverance, God for the sweet fellowship that lasts generational issues. “Most of them had ten- not judged for who we are or what we and how God is advancing His until we meet again.” MT minute slots to speak about one aspect of the are going through. We find a lot more kingdom through ordinary— theme,” Marlene Rosenberg explains. “Younger in common than not. We come from actually extraordinary—women.” Top: Miriam Nadler leads an enthusiastic and women were invited to be mentored and different localities, but know that we “I’ve been coming for approximately heartfelt worship time trained by those who are older and established will end up in the same place—with our five years,” says Ethel Chadwick, Middle: Some of the speakers included Gloria in the movement.” She urged the ladies to Messiah.” who directs worship at Shema Brawer, Marlene Rosenberg and Merryl Eaton welcome newcomers, emphasizing that cliques “What I appreciate so much is Yisrael in Rochester, New York. Lower: Dancing and singing express the joy were not allowed. the welcome and acceptance I find,” “These events are wonderful and “Our schedule is different in the way that enthuses speaker Melissa Moskowitz refreshing. We bask in the Lord as of women's worship it’s programmed,” she continues. “We do not from Jews for Jesus. Somehow, we we enjoy friends—both new and All photos: Grace Hudacek May/June 2012 The Messianic Times 13 HolyDaysandHolidays Sifting the Biblical From the Traditional by June Levine

he Jewish calendar is filled with feasts and fasts. Some have their origins in holiday. Shavuot also became the anniversary of God’s special relationship with Tthe commandments of the Scriptures and others have emerged over time to the Jewish people, through Z’man Matan Torah—the time of the giving of the become part of annual Jewish observance. Pesach (Passover), the Yom HaTeruah Torah. In 70 ce, when the destruction of the Temple effectively cancelled all (Feast of Trumpets), and Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) are all clearly pilgrimage holidays, emphasis on Torah and de-emphasis on the priestly duties outlined in the Torah (Leviticus 23). Shavuot (the Feast of Weeks) and Sukkot became essential for addressing the new paradigm within Judaism. Even today (the Feast of Tabernacles) are likewise revealed in the Divine command. But in Orthodox communities, the faithful remain awake through the night, reading other now-standard celebrations such as Hanukkah (the Festival of Dedication/ from the Scriptures (especially the Book of Ruth with its tale of the faithful Lights), Purim (Feast of Lots/Esther), Tu B’Shevat (the anniversary of trees) and daughter-in-law who was favored by her cousin and permitted to glean the edges Lag B’Omer are not specifically delineated in the Tanakh (Hebrew Scriptures). of the harvest) and other holy writings of the Jewish mystical tradition. Numbers, in Hebrew, are represented by the letters of the alef-bet (alphabet). As time passed, the counting of the omer grew historically more holy and In the case of Lag B’Omer, the name actually translates as the “33rd day of [the solemn. Weddings and other celebrations were not permitted, postponed until counting of] the omer,” an activity that is clearly described in the Bible, both in after Shavuot. Many trace this soberness back to a plague that occurred in the Leviticus and then again in Deuteronomy: 2nd century ce, during the life of the highly respected Rabbi Akiva. The disease wiped out many of his disciples one year during the season between Passover and You shall count for yourselves, from the day after the Shabbat, from the Shavuot, until, as if by a miracle, it completely ceased on the 33rd day of the omer, day when you bring the omer of the waving, seven Shabbats, they shall sparing the rabbi and many of his followers. The most famous of these disciples, be complete. Until the day after the seventh Sabbath you shall count, fifty Shimon bar Yochai, who died years later on this same date, was said to be the days... Leviticus 23:15–16 source for many mystical Jewish insights. Lag B’Omer became set aside as an oasis of joy in the midst of solemnity as Jews visit bar Yochai’s hometown to celebrate You shall count for yourselves seven weeks, from when the sickle is first what became known as the Scholar’s holiday. On this day the mood lifts, weddings put to the standing crop shall you begin counting seven weeks. Then you are performed and joyous celebration is permitted. will observe the Festival of Shavuot for the Lord, your God. Deuteronomy 16:9–10 The Tradition Grows: The New Covenant In the days shortly following the resurrection of Messiah, the apostles and their “Omer” is the Biblical reference to a measure of grain. Early Israelite society, followers wrote of new developments that emerged on the holiday of Shavuot. like that of neighboring tribes, was agrarian, and annual feasts revolved around Only seven weeks after Yeshua the Messiah added to existing Passover tradition the planting and harvesting of specific crops that marked out the year. The by reciting the words “This is my body, broken for you,” (speaking of the matzah) earliest harvest was barley, which was associated with the time of Passover. The and “This is my blood, shed for you,” (speaking of the Passover wine), Jews Scripture commands us to count 49 days, from there on, as the wheat fields ripen, gathered in Jerusalem for the annual pilgrimage holiday of Shavuot. They came culminating in the harvest holiday called Shavuot…literally “weeks,” referring to from everywhere, bringing their grain offerings to the Temple,. the 49 days between Passover (barley) and Shavuot (wheat). When they heard this sound from the sky like the roar of a violent wind, The Tradition Grows: The Rabbis and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then they saw what During the post-Biblical era, Jewish leaders elaborated upon the often scant looked like tongues of fire, which separated and came to rest on each one of discussion of the Biblical holidays. The Passover celebration took on myriads of them. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to talk in different traditions, which were added to the skeletal commands to eat lamb, bitter herbs languages, as the Spirit enabled them to speak. (Acts 2:6). and unleavened bread. This created a formal and frequently lengthy Passover seder. Traditions connected with other holy days were similarly embellished. When this brought speculation from the crowds who were curious about what The counting of the omer became not simply the marking of time in they saw and heard, the Apostle Peter stood up and referred the gathering Jews to anticipation of the harvest, it assumed a sense of its heightened holiness. A verses from the words of the prophet Joel: conflation of commemorations ascribed new meaning to the simple agricultural I will perform miracles in the sky above and signs on the earth below— blood, fire and thick smoke. The sun will become dark and the moon blood before the great and fearful Day of Adonai [the Lord] comes. And then, And, if you ask an Isralha Hebrew Corner whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. (Acts 19–21, quoting Joel 2:30–32).

Among followers of Yeshua, this event, called Pentecost (Greek for “fifty”), re- imaged Shavuot, the holiday from which it arose. Instead of Shavuot following Sheva seven weeks after Passover, the church adopted the model of Pentecost Sunday following seven weeks after Easter. Instead of the anniversary of the giving of the Torah to the Jewish people, it became the birthday of the Church. Whereas Passover was celebrated with unleavened bread, Pentecost was observed by lifting two loaves, representing God uniting Jews and non-Jews in the Body of Messiah. gca Replacing Biblical and traditional celebration with Christian interpretation, the Seven is important...we promise! Church began to understand itself as separate from—even replacing—the Jewish people. As one examines the history of the early centuries ce, it is impossible not At this time of the year when we celebrate Shavuot—,uguca—the Feast of Weeks to observe the Jewish and Christian communities as two streams flowing further (or “sevens”)—it is most appropriate to examine the root for the number seven, and further apart. which many call God’s divine number, one which implies perfection, completion or fulness. Traditions Flowing Back Together Important sevens that can be found in the Scriptures include shivat ha-Minim— A Hebrew expression currently popular in all branches of Judaism today is ohbhnv ,gca—the seven species found in the Land of Israel, as recorded in “Tikkun Olam.” The phrase, which has been taken in a very broad way, literally Deuteronomy 8:8. The sabbatical year, sh’nat ha-sheva—gcav ,ba—is a crucial means “repairing the world,” and originates from within the mystical tradition component of Israel’s agrarian economy, which insists that each tract of land remain that is celebrated every year on Lag B’Omer. fallow after seven growing seasons. There are, of course, the ever important seven days Several years ago, this also became the rallying cry of the Messianic of creation, which culminated in God's day off: the Sabbath—,ca—seventh (day). movement—to help re-contextualize the teachings of Yeshua the Messiah as they first arose from within the Jewish community, much of which embraced him; When mourners gather following a funeral, they remain seated on low chairs during the to bring back the ancient Biblical feasts so that all believers might understand seven-day period called shiva—vgca—literally “seven” (days) when certain aspects and participate in the fullness of the blessings of God; and to help Jewish people of bereavement are observed. The Bible also records seven deadly sins, seven Noahide recognize Yeshua the as the Messiah of Israel and Savior of the world. In the days laws, and includes a seven-fold blessing God declared in the Abrahamic covenant of between Passover and Shavuot, let us count the omer and focus on all of the Genesis 12. As a verb, this root means to make a promise or swear an oath, and the many truths that have emerged from both of these holy days—God’s provisions, Hebrew name Elisheva— gcahkt—or, Elizabeth—means “promise of God.” In the redemption from slavery in Egypt, the giving of the Word, the sacrifice of the the new covenant, God makes a specific promise to Elizabeth that she will be the Lamb of God, the creation of the Body of Messiah, and the pouring out of God’s mother of John the Baptist, who will announce the arrival of the Messiah. Spirit. Surely there is much to be grateful for seven weeks and beyond. MT

14 The Messianic Times May/June 2012 Profile O by Nancy Kurrack

ying in ambush with his powerful LSimonov rifle, Tass Abu Saada was poised me to fight with Yasser Arafat. At the battle of al Karameh, the first successful jasooa in Arabic, and Yeshua to his cousins, the Jews. MT

Taas with his wife, Karen HonorDue

Esther Rosenberg by Robert Wolff sther Rosenberg is a force to be reckoned Ewith. Whether inside her prayer closet, at the corner deli, or frequenting a nearby house of worship, this formidable woman packs a spiritual punch that brings our enemy to his knees. If she played baseball, her hometown Bronx Bombers, the Yankees, would have her pitching and batting cleanup. Neither Esther nor her beloved husband Moses, who passed away in 2007, started out this way. Challenged in the middle of her life with a ten-year struggle over a degenerative spinal disease that had her headed toward the wheel chair, Esther found herself desperate for a touch of God. And touch her He did. As Esther relates her story, she was seeking answers to spiritual questions as she was led to the Beverly Hills residence of Paul and Lenore Herne for a prayer meeting and Bible study. She encountered Dr. Ray Gannon, a young Bible scholar filled with the Lord’s wisdom. But, Esther was quite skeptical. How could such a youthful man teach a middle-aged Jewish woman anything about God? Little did Esther suspect that her life was about to take a miraculous turn toward heaven. This was not the first time Esther Rosenberg this Passover in she had encountered the Lord. As a young the company of Rabbi Jason Sobel woman, she was in Long Island, where her friend Ronnie Brauchler shared the Below: Esther as a young woman, person of Yeshua of Nazareth, informing Esther than He was her Messiah. Esther and together with husband Moses was hesitant to believe, but she realized at that very moment she was being deeply New in their walk with the Lord, the Dr. Jack Hayford, Esther’s former Jewish people, her loving demeanor, her affected by the Spirit of the Lord. Rosenbergs were moved to bind the spirit pastor and now Chancellor of King’s perpetual devotion and unceasing prayer, After years of furtive prayers for her of death and pray for this deceased young University declares, “She is an example of have endeared her to multitudes, Christian agonizing condition in a lonely existence 17 year-old male. Several minutes later, an a devoted disciple and ardent student of and Jew alike.” that Esther feared could ensnare her for ambulance arrived. Attempts were made God’s Word. In short, Esther characterizes Esther often voices her gifts on the the rest of her life, she seriously considered to resuscitate the victim. Electric paddles her namesake—a woman who is willing to media. Her teaching skills carry her far and suicide. Calling out to God, she heard were used to shock the body. Oxygen was risk her own convenience and comfort for wide to the nations. Signs and wonders a voice speak the name that is above all administered, but to no avail. The corpse the sake of her people; personable, creative, regularly accompanied her home Torah names. Three times she heard it: “Yeshua. was removed, a tragic death affecting all diligent and trustworthy.” Esther’s care and study group. Locally, she boldly proclaims Yeshua. Yeshua.” Startled by the response, present. But the story wasn’t over. concern for the spiritual life for her fellow the Lord to Hollywood celebrities and Esther recalled two decades into her past The deceased man was transported to a Jewish people,” heaping further praise, “is neighbors and within her monthly —that first encounter with the living God local hospital where he was identified, and beautifully matched to a sensitivity and newsletter, “Reigndrops.” Most Shabbats on Long Island. the young man’s mother was summoned graciousness in the way she relates. She is you will find Esther with Messianic Rabbi On that pivotal night at the Hernes in to confirm the loss of her son. As she stood characterized by a tenacity to her calling Jason Sobel at Congregation Ruach L.A. Beverly Hills, Esther left the Bible study, grieving next to his gurney, her son lifted that is honorable and faithful to the task of As her legacy continues to grow, stunned by the presence of the Lord. As his arm, pulled back the sheet covering his sharing Yeshua.” Gannon shares, “It has been my great Gannon had read from the fifth chapter of face, and sat straight up! The morning’s Jonathan Bernis of Jewish Voice privilege to know and love Esther James, she had felt he warmth of the Holy headlines reported to this sleepy beach Ministries joins in. “Esther is one of the Rosenberg for 40 years. As Esther’s ministry Spirit move through her body. Disease, community the miraculous raising of the most unique women I have ever met. As a specializes in reaching elderly Jews before depression, and fear were vanquished dead. This is a powerful lesson to new Jewish believer who also happens to be an their departure into eternity, she will long by the healing touch of Yeshua. The believers to be bold as they step out in faith. octogenarian…and an evangelist, she is a be esteemed for miraculously delivering to Lord answered Esther’s cry and she was Gannon recounts, “From the first rare breed indeed! Her zeal is contagious. heaven a host of Jewish souls.” undeniably set free. days of Esther Rosenberg’s faith in her She will boldly go anywhere and talk to In recent years Esther’s desire has Shortly thereafter, on the annual Jewish Messiah, Yeshua, she has been a anyone about the most important person been to begin a Beit Machaseh (House family outing to Vacation Village in bold and effervescent witness to God’s in her life, Yeshua her Messiah and Savior. of Refuge) for spiritually hungry Jews to Laguna Beach, Esther and Moses would love and saving graces. Within days of I hope I can introduce her to my unsaved learn the Hebrew roots of their faith; to experience the power of God at work. our initial encounter in 1973, Esther was Jewish mother some time!” have a place of safety in the anticipated While visiting a restaurant by the ocean instrumental in bringing her husband and Sitting atop a tall apartment building days of persecution. This vision includes shore, the patrons were dismayed to see a three teenage children (Steven, Hillary, and housing hundreds of multinational elderly a spacious living and teaching area, a pool dead body roll out of the surf and up onto Deborah) to faith. She was on track to 40 residents with a commanding view of for immersion (baptism), guest rooms, the beach. years of dynamic Jewish outreach ministry the San Fernando Valley, Esther’s “prayer counseling services and prayer for all accompanied by her partner, Moses.” tower” watches over the activities of the nations. The Rosenbergs joined Temple Beth populace. This mother, grandmother, and “As Noah prepared the ark for more Emanuel in Encino, California from its great-grandmother has a keen focus and than a hundred years,” Esther relates, Messianic inception with a powerful heart for the thousands of Jewish souls “it behooves us as Messianic believers, outreach to the Jewish community. After across the surrounding communities who both Jewish and non-Jewish, to see the the synagogue moved, Moses and Esther have yet to come to faith in Yeshua. handwriting on the wall, just as the sons were led to the Church on the Way in Van “She has demonstrated phenomenal of Issachar knew the seasons and acted Nuys, California, where they discovered respect and a fully cooperative spirit with accordingly to learn the ways of the Lord.” a genuine calling for Israel and the Jewish the various Jewish ministries across greater Esther’s hope is that many would share people. There they founded L’Chaim Los Angeles and has always been a team- this vision and prepare the way for the Ministries, which has blossomed into player in the interests of the Kingdom of coming season as she labors to advance Malkosh (Latter Rain) Ministries. God,” Gannon adds. Esther’s passion for God’s kingdom. MT

16 The Messianic Times May/June 2012 MessianicMinistry

He Thinks For Himself 4Continued from front page All that may seem like a long time ago, but to Sid Roth, it seems like the blink of an eye. “I’m 71 years old, but I feel like I’m just getting started,” says Sid, who recently celebrated 35 years in a Messianic ministry that now includes a presence on radio, television, the Internet and in print. “Everything I have done to date was in preparation for what I am about to do. I am just now reaching the point of beginning the work I was destined to do. My wife has suggested I retire and take life a little easier, but what the Lord is doing in these last days is way too exciting to quit.” After 35 years, Sid has good reason to be excited. His radio show began under the name Messianic Vision in 1977, the same year he and friend Paul Liberman started a little congregation called Beth Messiah in the Washington, D.C. area. “We were part of the Hebrew Christian Alliance,” Sid reminisces, “a ragtag group of Jewish believers most people would call ‘misfits.’ One day Paul suggested that we start our own Messianic congregation. Shortly thereafter, Beth Messiah was born in May 1973—the first Messianic congregation of its kind, to my knowledge, to be totally independent of outside Christian support. Several months later, we invited Manny Brotman to move from Florida be our Messianic leader, and he mentored me on how to reach the Jewish people. Every week, we began to see them Sid takes his time ministering to large groups of people through personal prayer and the laying on of hands come to know Yeshua as their Messiah.” Today, the radio show continues under the title, It’s return to my wife and daughter,” he affirms. Sid wants to be a part of building that bridge Supernatural, with a television program of the same Despite the fact that he had been lost for years to the between God’s Chosen People and their Christian name. The author of numerous books, including an occult, Sid’s parents did not react well to the news that brothers and sisters. In his most recent book, The autobiography, There Must Be Something More! He has he had become a believer in Yeshua. “Dad went ballistic,” Incomplete Church, he coins the phrase “One New also written They Thought for Themselves, a compilation Roth admits. “Mom was not happy, but she convinced my Man,” and shows how Christians and Jews are vitally of stories about ten Messianic Jewish believers and father my newfound faith was a phase, and that it too, interconnected. He insists that this phenomenon how they came to trust in Yeshua. Millions of copies would pass. My mother would listen to me, but my father will cause more people to become believers than of his books have been distributed worldwide in eight would close his ears. Then one day, my father let me at any time in recorded history. As the Jewish different languages. read to him from the 53rd chapter of Isaiah. By the time people begin to realize that Gentile believers are Additionally, the ministry hosts two web sites, www. I finished, he accused me of reading from a ‘Christian their closest allies, Sid believes that more power theythoughtforthemselves.com, which tells of the ten Bible.’ He said he would only accept a text from his will spring forth out of that sacred relationship, believers chronicled in the book of the same name, Orthodox rabbi. It was obvious my father thought Isaiah thereby turning centuries of hurt and suspicion and www.sidroth.org, where listeners and viewers of was speaking of Yeshua.” into forgiveness and a new, life-giving union. the radio and television shows can access testimonies, The next day, Sid went to see the family rabbi, who Warren Marcus is one of the ministry’s board teaching and program information. gladly gave him a copy of the Torah, complete with members and Vice President in charge of television Born September 7, 1940, in Washington, D.C., he several kind personal words inscribed on the inside cover. and radio production, as well as fundraising. He was raised in an Orthodox Jewish home. His mother “I could not wait to show this powerful gift to my dad,” he too shares Sid’s vision for the future of their work. was American; his father was from Poland. During his continues. “I began to read the same passage from Isaiah. “When Yeshua walked the earth,” Marcus says, “He teen years, shortly after his Bar Mitzvah, Sid became Now he had only two choices. Either he had to agree that was healing people. I believe that Jews and Gentiles disenchanted, finding Judaism to be “boring and Yeshua was the Messiah or he had to think something was alike need to see miracles. I believe the Church irrelevant” to his life. wrong with the rabbi. To my shock, he said, ‘I’ve always needs to see them, too.” He attended American University in Washington, thought there was something wrong with that rabbi.’ He So what does a former practitioner of New Age D.C., earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public then proceeded to tell me how he once saw the rabbi beliefs turned Messianic dynamo have to say about Relations. He worked in the investment business as eating in a restaurant on Yom Kippur—the day of fasting.” where God wants him to go from here? “What I an account executive for Merrill Lynch, and vowed to However, Sid’s parents couldn’t deny the change want to create in our new facility is a setting where become a millionaire by the time he was thirty. At 29, he in him and in his marriage. Today, because of God’s many people can see miracles before their own began to accept the reality that this worldly goal was not faithfulness and Sid’s perseverance, he has seen his eyes,” Sid exclaims. “But I am more fascinated with going to be met. Disillusioned and very unhappy, after parents, sister, brother-in-law, daughter and her family people coming to know Yeshua, especially Jewish years of little or no belief system, he became deeply become Messianic believers. people, than with the supernatural.” entangled in the occult. From that small congregation and local radio show After years working in relatively cramped “By the early 1970s, I was involved in a New Age mind in 1977, the ministry has come to enjoy a worldwide quarters and recording their programs elsewhere, control meditation program,” he recalls. “I just couldn’t following. They’ve since outgrown their 7,500-square- when asked how they celebrated the 35th seem to break free of the evil presence that had taken foot building in Georgia, and have recently moved into anniversary of the ministry, Sid replies, “With a hold of my life, and it brought me to the greatest fear a a new 40,000-square-foot facility in Charlotte, North glorious celebration service! We recorded our very human being can have this side of Hell.” He tells of being Carolina. first television interview before a live audience, in separated from his wife and daughter for more than a Bob DuVall is the ministry’s Vice President of our very own studio, using our very own equipment. year, and of reaching what he describes as “a breaking Communications. “There is a supernatural connection It was wonderful.” MT point.” between Jew and Gentile, the Jewish people and the Below (l to r): Sid Roth at a New Age encounter; In Kaifeng, Sid was ready to hear the truth. It was then a friend Church,” DuVall contends. “The spiritual blindness told him about the power of praying in the name of referred to in the Bible is coming off the Jewish people. China, home to a significant number of Chinese Jews; Sid Yeshua. “Coming from an Orthodox Jewish family, this That’s exciting for the Gentile as well, because the Apostle in the '70s; Ministering in Rockville, MD with Dr. Michael was a big step to take,” he remembers. In his desperation, Paul writes in Romans 11:15 that when the Jewish people Brown; Early days of ministry; Sid displays a copy of his he cried out, “Jesus, help!” The next morning, his fear come into the Body of Messiah, it will be ‘life from the book, They Thought for Themselves in Russian; Interview- and depression were gone. “I sensed God telling me to dead.’” ing Betty Kingsbury on his radio show early in his ministry

May/June 2012 The Messianic Times 17 LivingintheLand

Waves of Reconciliation 4Continued from front page Israel can be a difficult place to live, to be sure, with the constant looming realities of war, but surfers claim they find common ground in the water. Surfing for Peace founder Dorian “Doc” Paskowitz, who is Jewish, declares the ocean to be the great equalizer. “There’s only one enemy when a man steps into the water, and that’s himself,” he observes. His organization provides surfboards to Palestinians in Gaza. So what makes this documentary different from the Land during filming, and met a Palestinian teenager in the all others of its kind? Ovadia Kasdan was asked to lead it. Mediterranean Sea. Side-by-side, believes it is Divinely guided. The significance of this ritual they surfed without the ability to From his first visit to America meal as a natural illustration understand each other’s language. to his most recent one, he feels of togetherness, coupled with But words ultimately proved more connected to the American the profound point that in to be unnecessary. Curren, in a people than ever. The work made the Exodus story Yeshua is the spontaneous gesture, decided to its première in front of audiences afikomen (a piece of matzah give the boy one of his surfboards, in Israel and garnered favorable broken, hidden and found) was without expecting anything in reviews. Morehead has now to be the rabbi’s forté. return. In the documentary, the brought his message to the United As the story line progressed, young man’s father can be heard States with hopes of educating it became apparent that Kasdan’s asking, “How much do you want and motivating believers to take involvement went far beyond for the board?” “Nothing,” replies their place in God’s plan for His the telling of the seder, and was Curren. “It’s a gift,” symbolizing chosen people. Panel discussions more important than that of mere Morehead’s vision, with no have been held at several of the sounding board. He had much strings attached. To see the love viewings. A companion study to contribute to the goals and of Yeshua in action shows the guide offers an in-depth look objectives of the assignment and world a view of Israel from one at the Scriptures pertaining to soon found himself in front of the of the best seats in the house: the this precarious country, as it sits camera, although he will tell you surfers’ seat. MT at the center of world attention that he was “content just to be the surrounded by enemies on all rabbi in the back of the van.” sides. Surfing is simply the vehicle Kasdan’s relationships with for which a greater understanding the greater Jewish community and deeper appreciation is proved to be an invaluable achieved. The film proclaims itself connection for Morehead, to show “Israel through the Eyes although not always warmly of Surfers,” with the hope that received by several members of the world may see the soul of this the other segments of Judaism, complicated nation. who comprised part of the “If we were all surfers we’d audience at the panel discussions. have peace,” declares Paskowitz. Still, Morehead is grateful for Ovadia concurs. “I really hope Kasdan’s Biblical insights from that peace can happen, but we a Jewish perspective. Kasdan need everybody to surf first,” sees this as an opportunity to he says with a sheepish smile. open fresh dialogue between Behind his humor is a very Jewish believers and those who serious issue; one he hopes the do not believe that Yeshua is the world will take to heart as they Messiah. Overall, the production see his homeland in a renewed was well received by audiences. way—and not just what they As a caveat to the message, catch on the nightly news. For Tom Curren, three-time world Morehead, the project goes far surfing champion, was brought beyond the region. His work has into the picture to solidify the been well received in the United bridge that Morehead hoped to Top to bottom: States by both the Christian and build between the two religious Surfers Barney Kasdan, Todd Jewish communities, resulting communities and to demonstrate in dialogue and developing the real devotion many Christians Morehead, Dorian (Doc) Paskowitz, friendships. The indirect have for the birthplace of their Bryan Jennings. Paskowitz says, objective has been to foster an faith and its people. “If we were all surfers, we’d have undeniable, overflowing love Curren has a unique peace.” from the Gentile believing philosophy about surfing. He community for their “elder believes the waves in the ocean can Movie poster for Promised Land: brothers” in the faith. be humbling, and therefore change Israel Through the Eyes of Surfers Morehead’s enthusiasm attitudes and prompt respect. for understanding the Jewish Regardless of one’s pre-set opinion, Surfers Todd Morehead, community enabled him the experience can redirect a Hani Ovadia and Tom Curren to befriend Barney Kasdan, person’s viewpoint in a positive Messianic Rabbi of Kehilat way. “In the water,” he reminds, Mayor of Sderot, David Buskila, Ariel in San Diego, California, “cooperation is imperative. Politics and a lifelong surfer himself. should be like this!” speaking at the movie première Kasdan’s original role was Curren’s courteous and for Surfers that of consultant. A Passover unpretentious demeanor, seder (“order,” in Hebrew) was despite his world fame, was scheduled to be conducted in especially highlighted when he

18 The Messianic Times May/June 2012 Perspective

Doing a “180”—in a Heartbeat by Karen Faulkner

inish this sentence: ‘It’s okay like a free video to go with it. They thoughts on 180, Sandy comments, “I would alienate Israelis for whom “Fto destroy a baby in the womb said they would, so I decided to go think it’s very well done. What I most the Holocaust is not merely history when…’” This comment accentuates to the streets with a camera and find appreciate in Ray’s technique is how but personally painful.” The Anti- an unflinching confrontation with the out what people believed about the he enables people to draw their own Defamation League has denounced issue of abortion in the documentary notorious dictator. The movie was conclusions by confronting them with 180 for this reason. 180: Changing the Heart of a Nation. originally called Hitler’s Religion, but real facts. Ray challenges them to re- Ray uses his production to Upon its release in October 2011, the it went in a pro-life direction.” evaluate their opinions based on truth correct some misconceptions. video passed one million views on The documentary begins by rather than feeling. When discussing Nazism early on YouTube in the first month, with almost recording spontaneous responses as “We recently ‘adopted’ Ray’s in the documentary, Ray corrects 2.5 million free views on the 180movie Ray asks people on the street—mostly technique as we went on the streets of the mistaken belief that Hitler was website, to date. twenty-somethings—“Who was Adolf Jerusalem with fliers, a rollup poster, a Christian. “He hated Christianity. The documentary, available Hitler?” and survey forms. We asked people He called it a disease.” Ray offers the on DVD, has been acclaimed as a “Was he an actor?” one person when they believe life begins. We then comfort that there is forgiveness of brilliant and brave vehicle for the pro- blurts out. As the interviews progress, told them to study our poster and sins through Yeshua, including that life message. Endorsements include 14 people are captured on camera re-answer the question. Knowing the of abortion. This opens the door for internationally known Christians, claiming they never heard of the Nazi facts changed opinions.” him to present a powerful Gospel such Stephen Kendrick, producer of chancellor. Watching the film, Howard Having mentioned this, however, message to those whose convictions Fireproof and Courageous. On Project Bass, leader of Israeli congregation Sandy discloses that Be’ad Chaim have dramatically altered. While not Heart Changer, 180’s promotional Nachalat Yeshua, affirms, “It is very would not use Ray’s video in Israel. all respond positively, some do pray website, Kendrick writes, “May God shocking to see the ignorance of “I think the comparison of abortion for salvation, taking themselves and continue to use this mightily to open people—especially in the West—when to the Holocaust is valid, yet it viewers of 180, full-circle. MT the eyes of millions for the sake of it comes to men like Hitler.” the unborn.” Another endorsement Ray then takes his interviewees comes from Francine Rivers, a through a series of startling, thought- prolific Christian novelist whose provoking questions. He asks what stories frequently include themes they would do if faced with the of forgiveness. Her book Atonement decision of taking a human life in Child involves a young Christian a situation where it might seem woman who becomes pregnant after justified. In a discussion with a young being violently raped. “180 is our woman about God’s command to not wake up call,” attests Rivers. murder, Ray states, “Hitler declared Written and produced by Ray Jews as non-humans and exterminated Comfort, 180 is one of his many six million of them. That’s what you’re projects. A minister and evangelist, doing when you claim ‘it’s not a baby his ministry, Living Waters, “serves the until three months.’” local Church by assisting in educating Joy Heylen, an Australian God’s people in the principles of intercessor and staunch supporter of Biblical evangelism.” Born in New Israel, watched 180. “The interviewees’ Zealand, Ray identifies being Jewish understanding of the value of life through his mother’s lineage. He came grew,” she shares, “as Ray equated the to faith in Yeshua in 1972, and moved Holocaust with the murder of babies to the United States in 1989. He and via abortion. This effort to educate his family now live in California, people to have an accurate and where he filmed 180. righteous worldview is wonderful.” Throughout the movie, Ray Howard reflects, “Ray Comfort draws an unapologetic comparison certainly focuses in on the question of between the Holocaust and the crisis moral responsibility. When it comes of abortion. “On April 26, 1938, Hitler to voting for a political candidate enforced a law demanding that all Jews for high office, we often hear from give a detailed report of their wealth,” evangelical believers that the position he explains. “Every time a Jewish on Israel should be the determinant. family was killed, their assets were But what if a strong Israel supporter seized. Experts tell us that one third of also supports abortion?” Hitler’s war machine was financed by One man made the remark that Jewish blood. American abortion has abortion might be acceptable after the same incentive. If you want your rape. “Why would you kill the baby for 16-week-old baby killed, according to the crime of the father?” Ray implores. current prices it will cost you $690. “Which is worse, rape or murder? If you want your 19-week-old baby Adoption is presented as the proper killed, the price jumps to $2,690. alternative in the event a mother is American abortion makes billions unable to care for her child.” each year.” When it is suggested that it In Israel, a country just a fraction might be wise to abort if the child of the size of the United States, around has birth defects, Ray instructs them 20,000 government-authorized to imagine: “The Nazis are in front of abortions were carried out in 2010. you and they’re going to kill kids with It is estimated that a further 20,000 Down’s syndrome. They did this. You unauthorized terminations were think that’s okay, then?” conducted in private clinics during In Israel, abortion is free if a the same period. “The taking of the fetus is discovered to have physical or life of an unborn child is murder,” Ray mental abnormalities. Sandy Shoshani emphasizes. “And for that, we should is dedicated to the protection of all should be more than concerned— mothers and unborn children through we should be horrified.” her non-profit, pro-life association Asked how the endeavor came Be’ad Chaim. The organization Top to bottom: about, Ray replies, “I wrote a book includes seven pregnancy counseling Handing out the 180 DVD to young people called Hitler, God and the Bible, and centers throughout Israel, and The 180 DVD is available as a teaching tool; it is a project by evangelist Ray Comfort asked my publisher if they would outreach services. Offering her Steve is a neo-Nazi who was interviewed for the 180 project

May/June 2012 The Messianic Times 19 continued…

Checkpoint Controversy 4Continued from front page For believers seeking peace in the Middle with the commander of Hezbollah’s armed Weapons discovered East, George Habash would be an unlikely forces, Sheikh Kaouk. Sizer also toured Iran on the passenger ship role model. Brought up in a Greek Orthodox at the invitation of Ayatollah Khomeini’s aboard the Mavi Marmara environment, he left his hometown of Joppa daughter, Zahra Mostafavi. She arranged a in 1948 during Israel’s War of Independence. translation of Sizer’s book about Christian A zealous disciple of Gama Nasser’s pan- Zionism into Farsi, welcoming him at Arabism, Habash would form the Popular many of their state universities. This, as Iran Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), continued its three decade-long persecution a group which has carried out hijackings, of its own Christians—a campaign instigated suicide bombings, and targeted killings. by Mostafavi’s father. The 1985 murder of Leon Klinghoffer—an Further, Mostafavi invited Sizer to a elderly Jewish tourist thrown overboard meeting in Indonesia along with Alex Awad while on a cruise—stands out as one graphic of Bethlehem Bible College, Holocaust example of PFLP violence. Little wonder that denier Fred Tobin, and representatives of Habash was labeled “Terrorism’s Christian Hamas and Hezbollah. At the previous CatC Godfather” by Time magazine. assemblage, Sizer filmed a conversation Habash died in 2008, yet, his image and between himself and Brother Andrew, in influence are still palpable in Bethlehem, which both men agreed that Hamas has where PFLP slogans, posters and graffiti “every right” to attack the West. deface walls and lampposts. Post-Habash, Another presenter was anti-Zionist Jewish Alliance of America (MJAA), the and provide input into the declaration. the PFLP backs Hamas aggression, activist Ben White. “I do not consider myself Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations While at first this appeared unbelievable, campaigning for an end to the international an anti-Semite, yet I understand why some (UMJC), the International Messianic Jewish in a joint statement those Messianic designation of “terrorists” by arguing that people are,” he infamously declared. White Alliance (IMJA), and the International participants and delegates admitted that “resistance is not terrorism.” Mayor Victor has previously praised Habash’s “significant Alliance of Messianic Congregations and “some” of them did see it and suggest Batarseh is a PFLP member and identifies role in the resistance to Israel” in an Islamist Synagogues (IAMCS), issued a joint, public grammatical changes. Additionally, they himself as a Christian. In January, Batarseh journal. Should we be surprised? statement voicing their dissatisfaction referenced discussions at CatC to assist the attended a memorial service celebrating A main CatC organizer, Sami Awad, and exposing the “underlying agenda” of administration of Gaza with nonviolent Habash’s life, arranged by the PFLP. The presents another interesting connection. CatC. “The conference claims to seek peace tactics. In layman’s terms, CatC held Bethlehem of today’s Palestinian Authority Sami is the nephew of Mubarak Awad, the and reconciliation, but reflects Biblical sessions discussing how they could help (PA) has a Christian outer façade, yet it Palestinian advocate of nonviolence, who interpretations that deny the ongoing Hamas. The Messianic contingent did not strikingly bears the image of Habash’s PFLP. was deported from Israel in the late eighties, validity of God’s covenants with the Jewish challenge this publicly. Against this background, the second accused of fomenting civil disobedience. people,” they contended. The President The impressive list of evangelicals, international Christ at the Checkpoint Mubarak advocated resisting Israel by of the British Messianic Jewish Alliance peppered with names from the global (CatC) was organized by the Bethlehem “non-violent” means, such as boycotts (BMJA) expressed his strong agreement, as Messianic community, gave CatC a veneer Bible College. Ostensibly, the conference and large-scale protests. George Habash, well. YouTube and over 600 media outlets in of credibility. Yet, its substance remained claimed to encourage reconciliation who nevertheless maintained his own the United Kingdom, United States, Israel problematic—for Palestinian believers between Palestinian evangelicals and the organization’s commitment to violence, and other countries picked up the story. as well as Messianic Jews. This was most wider evangelical Church, with several endorsed Mubarak’s tactics. Significantly, Beforehand, individual Messianic evident the day following CatC, when it Messianic Jews invited to play a role. Victor Mubarak did not publicly distance himself leaders planning to attend hinted at emerged the PA had refused to recognize Batarseh himself gave the opening address, from Habash. His nephew Sami appears plans to challenge CATC extremism. the legitimacy of the First Baptist Church encouraging participants to speak out to have repackaged for Western evangelical This, however, proved difficult once on in Bethlehem, and subsequently might against injustices in Bethlehem. consumption this movement’s “nonviolent” site. In the end, British scholar Richard not sanction marriages conducted there. The 600 participants welcomed Palestinian, anti-Israel movement. Harvey, in his presentation, expressed While many concerned believers Batarseh’s address, thus failing to the possible option digested this information, CatC Sami Awad with pro-terror acknowledge his membership in a terrorist of replacing Israel organizers Munther Isaac and Porter priest Atallah Hana group. Certainly, no one challenged with a state known Speakman published an article admitting Batarseh’s political sympathies publicly. At as “IsraPalestine.” that evangelical churches in the West first glance, hosting a PFLP partisan would Somewhat theatrically, Bank “are not considered legitimate” appear at odds with the CatC’s publicly Evan Thomas, a by the PA. Isaac and Speakman claimed stated aim of reconciliation. This was not the prominent leader of that CatC had made dialogue between case in practice. Rather, conference program Musalaha (an Arab Palestinian evangelicals and the PA easier, director Stephen Sizer made a photo Christian organization adding—incredibly—that PA recognition album that he posted online, stocked with with ties to some of evangelical churches “does not depend Bethlehem murals of George Habash, PFLP Messianic leaders), entirely on the PA,” blurring the issue. flags, and graffiti of a smiling young Leila compared himself to This was an attempt by CatC to dilute PA Khaled—a PFLP plane-hijacker—posed Paul of Tarsus, who responsibility in this area—presumably holding a machine gun. dared to eat with because opposing its policy directly would Sizer’s travel itinerary also raises doubts. Gentiles. Thomas be bad for the image of the conference. He toured Southern Lebanon on a trip likened Messianic critics And how could they oppose it? Their sponsored by Hezbollah’s official media to Simon Peter, who refused to break bread honored guest, the Mayor of Bethlehem, outlet, Al-Manar TV. While there, he met “Nonviolence” is an awkward term, with them. Thomas told his listeners that has never spoken for the rights of referring to ways to undermine and counter internal “community pressure” against CatC Palestinian evangelicals. Days earlier, CatC the Israeli state without engaging in brutality. required repentance. The only substantial had welcomed PA Prime Minister Salam Yet, its promoters do not condemn acts of challenge to CatC came from Wayne Hilsden, Fayyad with a standing ovation, claiming direct aggression. Indeed, Sami considers the Messianic leader of King of Kings his group gave evangelicals “equal rights,” Islamic Jihad leader Khader Adnan a hero. congregation in Jerusalem, who handled the when this was clearly untrue. Sami has further expressed his support for controversy on an esoteric and theological CatC thus gave the impression of the anti-Semitic sheikh Raed Salah, and level. The opportunity to publicly warn representing Palestinian evangelicals and has often appeared in public with Atallah CatC speakers against admiring anti-Semitic reconciling them to Messianic Jews before Hanna, the Greek Orthodox priest fired Islamist terrorists was largely missed. the whole church. Yet, CatC does not have for his approval of suicide bombings. Sami What followed was farcical. CatC the best interests of Israeli and Palestinian aligned with the 2010 Gaza flotilla, which released a Replacement Theology-driven believers at heart. Rather, it is concerned with carried weapons to Hamas. This is the manifesto mentioning the Messianic shoehorning its particular ideology into “nonviolence” of Sami Awad. speakers by name, implying the conference mainstream Messianic and evangelical On the eve of the event, many Messianic had agreed to the document. The thinking. CatC participants may yet be leaders, even if unaware of the extent of the Messianics saw it for proofreading before sincere in their quest for reconciliation. If extreme views displayed by many speakers, its completion, which gave opportunity to so, then its speakers ought to move away nevertheless could recognize the unorthodox dupe them into being seen as in agreement. from the likes of Victor Batarseh and the theology that undergirded and justified its Sami Awad claimed that Messianic CatC PFLP he represents, and start again from worldview. For this reason, the Messianic participants had full opportunity to edit scratch. MT

20 The Messianic Times May/June 2012 Reviews—BooksMusicFilm

The Sound of the Spirit Songs In the Night Produced by Guy Camara Film by Karen Davis Directed by Michael Wolf ©2011 Music Running time: 128 minutes Galilee of the Nations Release date September ©2012 www.the.P.com

Review by Rose Weinstein Review by Ya’akov Pisk

Why is this movie different from It’s hard to come up with enough superlatives all other movies? to describe Songs in the Night, the fifth Jews ask questions. We know album released by Karen Davis. She’s the this from Passover seders, as well worship leader at Kehilat HaCarmel, a as popular Jewish culture. This is Messianic congregation located at the top of not only a truism, it’s a portion of Mount Carmel in Haifa, Israel. The music is dialogue from the brand new full- richly structured, employing subtle nuances length motion picture, The Sound that add to the listening experience, much in the way that a dash of cinnamon enhances a of the Spirit. good cappuccino. Karen says this new project was birthed amid the tension and turmoil This film is different, not because we recline while we nosh matzah instead experienced by many Israelis in the past few years. of popcorn, but because it is the first professional full-length theatrical Messianic “I chose this title because in Psalm 42:8, God promises us that in the night His song Jewish movie ever. It is written and directed by Michael Wolf of Ohio, and shall be with us. Most of the pieces I’ve written here as I’ve poured out my heart to the produced by Guy Camara, Kingdom Pictures, who hails from Indiana. Lord have been in the midst of the night seasons—whether that night has taken the In April, Kingdom Pictures signed a contract for The Sound of the Spirit form of a suicide bombing, missiles falling on our neighborhoods, or personal times of with Bridgestone Multimedia Group, the largest distributor of faith-based discouragement and intense weariness.” films in the world. This all came about because Michael Wolf dared to ask the Karen and her husband David have been engaged in a ministry of reconciliation question: “Why can’t a Messianic Jewish rabbi also make quality films?” almost since they made aliyah to Israel in 1989, with a vision to help drug addicts by Those who enjoyed Wolf’s children’s videos in the 1990s are in for a shock. sharing the power of God’s love. They soon realized that His love didn’t extend just to their This is the real deal. fellow Jews, and for 20 years have reached out to Jewish and Arab addicts in Haifa through The story centers on Rivka, a beautiful, precocious 12-year-old who happily Beit Nitzachon (House of Victory), a residential rehabilitation center. attends a Messianic Jewish congregation with her father. Rivka finds her life Yochanan ben Yehuda, President of Galilee of the Nations Music, says that the new changed forever when her father suffers a fatal heart attack. Circumstances album represents the best work that Karen has ever written. force her to live with her traditional Jewish relatives and attend their synagogue, “Karen’s songwriting and ministry have always been deeply rooted in Scriptures, just as she is preparing for her Bat Mitzvah. From her stormy relationship with such as Ephesians 2:15,” he points out. “The concept of ‘One New Man’ has been a theme her uncle, to a meeting with the synagogue’s senior rabbi, to the attention of the throughout her first four records, and this represents her most innovative music.” cutest boy in the synagogue, Rivka learns life lessons that stir her faith to new The opening title “Al Tiru” (Fear Not) begins with a set of dark, ominous chords that levels, touching the hearts of those whose lives she has reluctantly impacted. build slowly, punctuated by resounding drums. Quite suddenly, the music seems to open In his screenplay, Wolf thankfully avoids the tired clichés too often wide, like clouds being pierced by bright sunshine. Hopeful lyrics remind listeners of a God associated with “spiritual” films. We’re also spared an unrealistic, corny ending, who is their salvation. A guitar solo enters like a thunderclap as backing vocals declare Yeshua such as the whole congregation getting saved on the steps of the synagogue. to be King of Kings and King of Glory. Given what is happening today—threats from Iran, Throughout the plot, the characters are believable and well developed. The star, the nations raging against Israel—this is a declaration of the reality of God’s promise to bless Anna Lasbury, puts in a truly moving performance as Rivka. those who bless His people, and curse those who curse them (Genesis 12:3). The Sound of the Spirit has premiered in major theaters at invitation-only Other tracks, such as “Be Exalted,” contain unexpected musical treasures such as the events in Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana. Traditional Jewish people who have syncopated rhythm, found amid plucked strings in the midst of a slow, sweet ballad that is viewed the film say they now see Messianic Jews in a new light; Christian nothing more than a love song to God. Beautiful woodwinds and contemplative piano are audiences who never before understood the dynamics between Messianic Jews to be found on “You Restoreth My Soul” (based on Psalm 23) and “Who Am I.” and the greater Jewish community are now enlightened. If you missed the “The closing song, ‘We’ve Come Together,’ features the voice of Amal, a gifted young screenings, two more are scheduled at both the MJAA and UMJC conferences Arab Christian woman from Nazareth,” Karen confides. “The opening verse is ‘We’ve come this summer. together, Jew and Gentile, one new man in the Messiah, being built together for a dwelling Here is your chance to watch a “must see” film and take part of cinematic place of God’ (Ephesians 2:21). Our prayer is that the God of Israel will once again manifest history in the making. MT His presence and dwell in the midst of His people.” MT continued…

Prophet from Jersey 4Continued from page 7 Strang thinks the novel has struck a Many books of prophecy chord for a simple reason. “A lot of have been published, so why is believers sense there is something The Harbinger such a hit? Perhaps terribly wrong in the United States, because it does something that and in the world. The message other end times publications of The Harbinger helps explain are unable to do: appeal to an what is going on. There’s been an audience in both religious and overwhelming response; buyers secular markets. The book’s purchase multiple copies so they content has ignited a spark of can give them to their friends, and curiosity to explore Old Testament the momentum is still building.” prophecies, demonstrating they Jonathan agrees with Strang. are as meaningful today as they “America is in a state of decline— were thousands of years ago. spiritually and otherwise. A “If you’re scared by what good portion of this country is happening in the world, and is involved in apostasy and if you don’t know the Lord,” backsliding. The same warning advises Jonathan, “there is that Israel received prior to salvation in Him. Yeshua means annihilation is sounding now.” salvation, but it also means God has always placed safety. For those who already “watchmen on the walls.” His plan follow Him, the main thing is to is to sound the alarm in due time be in His will. If there’s anything so that calamity might be avoided. in you that isn’t of Him, it’s time The Harbinger is that watchman to get rid of it. The message is to for this day and age. turn back to God.” MT

May/June 2012 The Messianic Times 21 MessianicCongregationalDirectory Irvine: Adat HaMashiach Messiaic Congregation-IAMCS Messianic Orlando: Congregation Gesher Shalom-IAMCS Rabbi Dr Charles I Pastor Robert Black Meets: 25991 Pala Mission Viejo Serv: Sat Kluge Meets: 6969 Venture Circle Orlando 32807 Serv: Fri 8pm & UnitedStates 10:30am (714) 630-6703 www.myadat.com [email protected] Sat 11am (407) 671-4700 www.geshershalom.com Alabama Irvine: Shuvah Yisrael-IAMCS Messianic Rabbi Larry Feldman Ormond Beach: Beth Judah-IAMCS/Tikkun Rabbi Jerry Miller Meets: 5000 Barranca Pkwy Serv: Sat 10am Shabbat School Meets: 3217 State Road 40 Serv: Sat 10am Shabbat school Birmingham: Beth Hallel-IAMCS Rabbi Eric Walker Meets: 2230 Sumpter & Nursery (949) 679-1261 www.shuvahyisrael.org and teen group (386) 672-8443 www.bethjudahmessianic.org St 35226 Serv: Fri 7:30pm Sat Torah Study 10:30am Tues 11:30am Modesto: Congregation Lev L’Yisrael Leader Donald Ross Meets: 4021 Beyer [email protected] Prophecy in the News 7pm Jewish Roots (205) 822-2510 Park Dr Serv: Sat 10am (209) 557-0696 www.heartforisrael.org Pensacola: Brit Ahm Messianic Synagogue-IAMCS Rabbi Eric Tokajer www.shalombirmingham.com [email protected] Monterey: Sar Shalom Messianic Fellowship-UMJC Serv: Fri 7:30pm Meets: 6700 Spanish Trail 32504 Serv: Shabbat 10am Tues Study 7pm Alaska (831) 624-4350 www.sarshalompg.org [email protected] (850) 484-0900 www.shalompensacola.com [email protected] Orange: Ben David Messianic Jewish Congregation-AMC Messianic Port St. Lucie/Fort Pierce: Kerem El Messianic Synagogue-IAMCS Nenana: Nenana Messianic Fellowship–MP Steve & Rb Franceilia Rabbi Doug Friedman Meets: 1800 E LaVeta Serv: Sat 10:30am Shabbat Contact us at (877) 855-3843 www.keremel.org McDonald Meets: Sat 10am (907)832-1006 www.nmf-ak.com School & Hebrew Instruction (949) 551-2659 www.BenDavidMJC.org Tampa: Shoresh David Messianic Synagogue-IAMCS Sr. Rabbi Steve Arizona Palm Springs: Ohav Shalom-IAMCS Steve Babkow Serv: Sat 10am Weiler Meets: 4320 Bay-to-Bay Blvd Serv: Fri 7:30pm & Sat 11am (760) 775-0181 www.ohavshalom.net (813) 831-LORD www.shoreshdavid.org Glendale: Arrowhead Messianic Congregation-Pastors Allan and San Diego: Kehilat Ariel-UMJC Rabbi Barney Kasdan Meets: 3219 Tarpon Springs: Temple New Jerusalem-IAMCS Rabbi Michael Anita Moorhead Meets: Tabernacle of the Son 10738 N 75th Ave Ste Clairemont Mesa Blvd Serv: Sat 10:30am (children’s program) Youth & Stepakoff Meets: 1190 East Lake Rd 34688 (727) 940-5886 B2 Peoria 85345 Serv: Adult Bible Study Sat 8:30am Worship 10:17am Yeshiva class Tues 7pm (858) 490-4355 www.kehilatariel.org www.templenewjerusalem.org [email protected] (623)780-0172 www.myamc.org [email protected] San Diego: Tree of Life Messianic Congregation-IAMCS Rabbi Joel Wesley Chapel: Shoresh David Messianic Synagogue-IAMCS Leader Phoenix/Anthem: Congregation Baruch HaShem-IAMCS Leader Liberman Meets: 2705 Via Orange Way, Ste A, Spring Valley Larry Johnson Meets: Trinity UMC 33425 State Rd 54 Serv: Sat 6pm Tim & Candyce Hyslip Meets: 28660 N Black Canyon Hwy Phoenix Serv: Sat 10am (619) 656-1168 www.treeoflifeca.org [email protected] (813) 831-5673 www.shoreshdavid.org Serv: Sat 4:30pm (623) 521-3845 www.baruch-az.org Santa Barbara: Chapel Ariel-UMJC Leaders Rev. Warren and Leanne West Palm Beach: Congregation Gesher Shalom of the Palm Beaches- Prescott: Ahava B’Shem Yeshua-IAMCS Leader Al Rodriguez Simandle Meets: Upper Room 1435 Cliff Dr Serv: Fri 6:30pm Torah IAMCS Senior Rabbi Dr Charles I Kluge Meets: 2501 Bristol Dr, Meets: Alliance Bible Church 2601 W Iron Springs Rd Study Tues 6:30pm (805) 682-6809 [email protected] Suite A-7, WPB, FL 33409 Serv: Sat 11am Bible Study Wed 7pm Serv: Sat 10:30am followed by Oneg (928) 443-5988 or West Covina: Simchat Yeshua Meets: 1100 E Cameron Ave, room #10 (561) 681-1550 (928) 776-8501 www.ahavabshemyeshua.com [email protected] Serv: Sat 11am worship prayer schmooze, nosh. Bible study 2 pm Boynton Beach: L’Chaim Messianic Congregation-C&MA Bruce (626) 290-0234 www.simchatyeshua.org [email protected] Elman Congregational Leader Meets: 1815 Forest Hill Blvd 33406 California West Hills: Adat Y’shua Ha Adon Michael H Brown Serv: Sat 10:30am (561) 350-6964 www.lchaimmessianic.org Anaheim/Orange: Temple Aviv Judea Rabbi Corey Sylvester Meets: Meets: 7475 Fallbrook Ave Serv: Fri 7:30pm & Sat 10:45am 632 N Eckhoff Orange CA 92868 Serv: Sat 10:30am (818) 222-0200 www.adatyshua.org [email protected] Georgia (714) 748-4504 www.avivjudea.org Augusta: Congregation Beth Shalom-IAMCS Messianic Pastor Don AppleValley/Cucamonga: Beth Shalom-IAMCS/UMJC/Tikkun Lansing Meets: 701 Atomic Rd 29841 Serv: Sat 11am Rabbis Rene & Robert Bloch Meets: 9592-7th St Rancho Cucamonga Colorado Denver: Congregation Yeshuat Tsion Rabbi Chaim Urbach Mail: 2307 Neal St 30906 (706) 796-3797 Serv: Sat 10am (760) 240-8883 [email protected] Meets: 5600 E Belleview Ave Greenwood Village Serv: Sat 10am www.congregationbethshalom.org Canoga Park (LA area): Beth Ariel Messianic Congregation Leader Gary (303) 740-5413 www.yeshuattsion.org Roswell: Congregation Beth Hallel-IAMCS Rabbi Kevin Solomon Derechinsky Meets: 22222 Saticoy St Serv: Sun 11 am worship Meets: 950 Pine Grove Rd Serv: Fri 8pm Sat 11am & Tues 7pm (770) nursery & Sun school (818) 610-8600 www.bethariel.org Florida 641-3000 www.bethhallel.org Crestline/Redlands: Shiloh Messianic Congregation Pastor Bruce Dowell Boca/Deerfield/Pompano/Coral Springs: Beth Hillel Rabbi Dr Meets: Fri 7pm & Sun 9:30am Crestline (909) 338-4846; Sat 10am David Barsky Meets: 6279 W Sample Rd Coral Springs 33067 Hawaii Redlands (909) 338-0685 www.shilohmessianic.org Serv: Traditional-Fri 8pm Contemporary-Sat 10:30am Honolulu: Tikvat Yisrael Rabbi Daniel Klutstein We are Torah observant [email protected] (954) 341-4682 www.bethhillel.com Meets: 277 Ohua Ave Waikiki Serv: Sat 10:30am-4pm Wed 6-8pm Fresno: Beit Tefillah Messianic Fellowship-CTOMC Torah-observant Boca Raton: Ayts Chayim Messianic Synagogue-UMJC/Tikkun Bible & Hebrew studies (808) 351-6364 www.TikvatYisrael.com Assembly Rabbi Adam J. Bernay Meets: 525 E Clinton Ave Rabbi Ira Brawer Meets: Grace Community Church 600 W Serv: Sat 3pm (559) 477-4977 www.fresnohouseofprayer.com Camino Real 33486 Serv: Sat 10:30am (561) 487-3839 Illinois Fresno: Beth David Messianic Synagogue-IAMCS Meets: www.acmsboca.org Rolling Meadows: Temple Shalom Yisrael-IAMCS Messianic Pastor 4147 E Dakota & Cedar Serv: Fri 7:30pm (559) 435-0106 Boynton Beach: Beth Sar Shalom Messianic Congregation Paul Helle Meets: 2720 Kirchoff Rd 60008 Serv: Sat. 10:30am www.bethdavidmc.org [email protected] Rabbi Dr Ben Alpert Meets: 1015 Old Boynton Rd Serv: Sat Shabbat (847)488-1724 www.temple-shalom-yisrael.org Grover Beach: Beit Tehillah Fellowship Leader Mitch Rosen Meets: School 9:30am, Worship service 10:30am Torah Discussion Sat 3pm Sherman: Petah Tikvah Messianic Synagogue Leader David Cohn 1935 Newport Ave Serv: first & third Sat of the month at 2pm (561) 737-1431 www.bethsarshalomflorida.com Meets: 6800 Bahr Rd Serv: Sat 11am, Hebrew 1:30pm, Torah (805) 215-6636 www.beittehillah.org [email protected] Clearwater: Ohr Chadash-UMJC Rabbi Dr John Fischer Study 2:30pm (217) 544-6545 www.petahtikvah.org Meets: 3190 Gulf-To-Bay Blvd Serv: Fri 8pm Come for tradition Suburban Chicago: Olive Tree Congregation Leader Dan Strull Meets: that’s vital, warm & caring! (727) 726-1472 www.ohrchadash.org 400 N Elmhurst Rd Prospect Heights 60070 Serv: Sat 10am; Shabbat Davie: Kehilat Bet Avinu Meets: 11850 W St Rd 84 Ste A-16 33322 School 11:45 (847) 222-1230 www.olive-tree.org [email protected] Serv: Kabbalat Shabbat Fri eve Shabbat 10:30am (954) 629-2100 Indiana www.bethavinu.org [email protected] Indianapolis: Congregation Shaarey Yeshua Rabbi Jeffrey A Adler Fort Lauderdale: Temple Aron HaKodesh–IAMCS Rabbi Joseph Vitkus Meets: Dayspring Assembly of God, 2415 E 72nd St Serv: Fri 7:30pm Meets: 4751 NW 24th Ct Serv: Fri 7:30pm & Sat 11am (317) 202-0789 www.shaareyyeshua.org [email protected] Weekly small groups (954) 485-8491 www.tak.org Hollywood: Beth T’filah-UMJC Rabbi Gidon Nelson Meets: Ramada Kansas Inn 1925 Harrison Serv: Sat 10:30am (305) 458-2284 Overland Park: Or HaOlam Messianic Congregation-IAMCS www.bethtfilah.org [email protected] Rabbi Shmuel Wolkenfeld Meets: 7029 W 74th St Serv: Sat 10am Lakeland: Shoresh David Lakeland Messianic Synagogue- worship service, 2pm Torah parasha and other classes (913) 383-8448 IAMCS Rabbi Yosi Laster Meets: Trinity Christian Center www.orhaolam.com 4416 E County Rd 540-A Serv: Sat 11am (863) 701-8885 Wichita: L’Chaim B’Yeshua Elder Hubert Shorb Meets: 1441 E 37th St www.shoreshdavid.org N 67219 Shabbat Serv: Fri 7pm (316) 295-2366 Melbourne: Kol Mashiach Messianic Synagogue-IAMCS/MJAA www.lchaimbyeshua.com [email protected] Rabbi Alan Levine Meets: 1621 Lake Washington Rd Serv: Sat 10am (321) 255-2557 www.shalombrevard.com Louisiana Ocala: Mishkan Messianic Congregation-IAMCS Rabbi Jerry Keyes Harahan: Adat Yeshua Synagogue-UMJC Leader Grant Burgess Meets: 6675 SE Maricamp Rd Serv: Sat 11am (352) 687-4434 Meets: 1501 Hickory Ave 70123 Serv: Fri 7pm and Sat 10 am www.mishkanmessianicinocala.org (504) 701-4848 www.adatyeshua.org [email protected] [email protected] Mandeville: Congregation Beth Hallel-IAMCS Rabbi David Schiff Serv: 2nd & 4th Fri each month w/Home Fellowship Study 3rd Fri (985) 277-3109 www.LaMessianic.com [email protected] Metairie: Fellowship Beth Hallel-IAMCS Rabbi David Schiff Serv: 3rd & 4th Sat each month w/Home Fellowship Study 2nd Sat (985) 277-3109 www.LaMessianic.com [email protected] Maryland Arbutus: Brit Chadasha Synagogue Leaders B Reiter/B Globus/A Frydland & James Willet Meets: 4748 Shelbourne Rd Hope Presbyterian Church Serv: Sat 10:15am (410) 646-3306

22 The Messianic Times May/June 2012 MessianicCongregationalDirectory Baltimore/Pikesville: B’nai Avraham-AMC Leader Pete Koziar Manhattan/Upper Westside: Congregation Sha’ar Adonai-CPM/ Texas Meets: Commer Centre Suite 208 (Reisterstown Rd & 695) UMJC Rabbi Steve Fenchel Meets: 2 West 64th St Serv: Sat 11am Bedford: Metroplex Messianic Fellowship Rabbi Marty Cohen Serv: Sat 10am (410) 998-9915 www.MessianicPikesville.org (212) 223-6751 [email protected] Meets: River of Life, 217 Harwood Rd Serv: Sat 10:30am [email protected] Plainview: Beth Yeshua Leader Martin Fromm Meets: 88 Southern (877) 713-6416 www.metroplexmessianic.org Baltimore/Owings Mills: Rosh Pina-UMJC/Tikkun Leader Irv Horseman Parkway 11803 Serv: Sun Worship 11am Wed Dallas: Adat Shalom Messianic Congregation Leader Robin D Rose Meets: 3408 Walnut Ave Serv: Sat 10:30am (410) 363-4954 Bible Study 8pm (516) 513-0964 www.bethyeshuany.org Meets: 12727 Hillcrest Rd Serv: Fri 7:30pm Bible studies Wed 7pm www.rosh-pina.com [email protected] North Carolina (972) 271-4976 www.adatshalom-dallas.org [email protected] Bel Air: Ain M’Chitzah-IAMCS/MJAA Pastor Lyle Dauber Meets: Dallas: Baruch HaShem Synagogue Rabbi Marty Waldman Cary: Congregation Sha’arei Shalom-UMJC Seth Klayman Spiritual Call for location Serv: Sat 10:30am Torah & Hebrew studies (410) Meets: 6304 Belt Line Rd Serv: Sat 10:40am (972) 386-0121 Leader Meets: 700 Old Apex Rd Serv: Sat 10am (919) 388-3678 588-5840 [email protected] www.BaruchHaShemSynagogue.org [email protected] www.entershalom.org [email protected] Clarksville/Columbia: Emmanuel Messianic Jewish Congregation- Dallas: Eitz Chaim-UMJC Meets: 650 W Campell Rd Richardson/ Charlotte: Hope of Israel Congregation Leader Sam Nadler UMJC Rabbi Barry Rubin Meets: 6120 Day Long Lane Clarksville North Dallas Serv: Sat 10:30am Wed Prayer Meets: 11630 Elm Lane 28277 Serv: Sat 10:30am Shabbat School Serv: Sat 10am (410) 531-2093 www.godwithus.org 6:30pm (972) 231-3884 www.eitz-chaim.org [email protected] 9:30am (704) 544-1948 www.hopeofisrael.info Owings Mills: Am Yeshua Congregation Meets: Upper Room North- Dallas: Shalom, Shalom Messianic Congregation Leader minster Church, 705 Main St Reisterstown Serv: Sat 10:30am (443) Ohio Dr. Todd Baker Meets: Fellowship Bible Church Rm 202 99330 465-8857 www.amyeshua.com [email protected] N Central Expway 75231 Serv: Fri 7pm (214)356-2583 Wheaton: Son of David Congregation Leader Dennis Karp Bath: Rosh Pinah Messianic Congregation Rabbi Michael Humphrey Meets: 3891 Ira Rd Serv: Sat 10:30am Yeshiva Wed 7pm [email protected] Radio shows at www.brit-hadasha.org Meets: Wheaton Community Church, 3211 Paul Dr 20902 Duncanville: Bat Zion Messianic Congregation Leader Steven Serv: Shabbat service 10am (240) 403-2138 www.sonofdavid.org (330) 668-6840 www.rosh-pinah.org [email protected] Canton: Simcha Derech HaMelech Messianic Congregation-IAMCS Jaslow Meets: 730 N Cedar Ridge Rd Serv: Sat 10:40am Leader Edward J Mooney Meets: 2222 Fulton Rd NW 44709 Serv: (972) 709-8761 www.bat-zion.org [email protected] Massachusetts Sat 10am Torah Study Tues 7pm Davidic Dance Wed 7pm (330) Fort Worth: Beth Yeshua Congregation Meets: 5685 Westcreek Danvers: Shema Israel Messianic Fellowship Please call for more 340-6343 www.sdhmessianic.org Dr Ste 301 Serv: Fri 7:30 pm & Sat 10:30 am (817) 921-3195 information (978) 335-6644 [email protected] Cincinnati: Beth Messiah Synagogue Rabbi Michael Wolf Meets: www.bethyeshuaftw.org 9054 Columbia Rd Loveland Serv: Fri 8pm & Sat 11am Houston: Congregation Beth Messiah-UMJC Messianic Rabbis Michigan (513) 683-8817 Fax: (513) 683-8917 www.bethmessiah.net Richard Freeman and Ron Aaronson Meets: 9001 W Airport Blvd. Bloomfield Hills: Congregation Shema Yisrael Rabbis Loren Jacobs Columbus: Beth Messiah Congregation-UMJC Messianic Rabbi 77071 Serv: Sat 10am (713) 271-5757 www.cbmhouston.org San Antonio: Shoresh David Messianic Congregation-IAMCS & Glenn Harris Meets: Bloomfield Hills Baptist Church, 3600 Telegraph Howard Silverman Meets: 4950 Morse Rd 43230 Serv: Sat 10:30am Rabbi Stuart Fabricant Meets: 201 Harriman Pl (First Christian Rd Serv: Sat 10:30am (248) 593-5150 www.shema.com www.bethmessiahcolumbus.org [email protected] Church) Serv: Sat 10:35am (210) 499-4447 www.shoreshdavid.net Grand Rapids: Adat Eytz Chayim Congregational Leader Mike Lohrberg Lyndhurst: Tikvat Yisrael Messianic Synagogue-IAMCS Rabbi Eric D [email protected] Meets: 5070 Pine Island Dr NE Comstock Park, MI 49321Serv: Sat Lakatos Meets: 1370 Richmond Rd 44124 Serv: Sat 10:30am (216) Wichita Falls: Texoma Messianic Fellowship-IAMCS Congregation 10:30am (616) 531-7455 www.adateytzchayim.org 297-9929 www.TikvatCleveland.com Leader Christine Walker Meets: 719 W Scott Ave Ste 300 76301 N Canton: The Star in the East-IAMCS Rabbi Michael J. Oyler Serv: Sat 11am (940) 687-0300 or (940) 923-6643 See website Missouri Meets: 2638 Easton St NE Serv: Sat 10am Shabbat celebration for parking instructions www.texomamessianicfellowship.org Branson: The Tabernacle- IAMCS Rabbi Jeremy Storch Thurs 6pm Davidic/Israeli Dance 7pm Torah Study [email protected] Meets: 256 Church Rd 65616 Serv: Fri 7:30pm & Sat 11am (330) 491-7827 www.starineast.org [email protected] (417) 334-7373 www.TheTabernacleinBranson.com St. Louis: Beit Chesed Messianic Congregation Leader Jake Rosen Oklahoma Virginia Fredericksburg: Beth Israel Messianic Jewish Congregation-UMJC Meets: 2501 Rockland Ave 63144 Serv: Fri. 7:15-8:30pm (314) 504-8539 Oklahoma City: Rosh Pinah Messianic Jewish Congregation- Congregational Leader Joseph Cabino Meets: 2222 Jefferson Davis [email protected] www.beitchesed.com IAMCS Messianic Rabbi Michael Weygant Meets: 2600 NW 55 Place Serv: Sat 10:40am Lunch/Dance/Hebrew Tues Bible Study Highway 22401 (540) 582-3444 www.beth-israel-va.org 7:30pm (405) 842-1967 www.roshpinah.org [email protected] [email protected] Nebraska Leesburg Kehilat Sar Shalom Rabbi Neal Surasky Meets: 908 Omaha: Adat Hatikvat Tzion-IAMCS Nate Seitelbach Meets: SW Pennsylvania Trailview Blvd Ste 200 20175 Serv: Sat 10:30am Shabbat School Church of the Nazarene 14808 Q St PO Box 564 68010 Serv: Allentown: Beit Simcha Messianic Fellowship-IAMCS Leader and Worship Dancing (443) 253-0982 www.kehilatsarshalom.org Sat 10am (402) 592-2404 www.Adat.org Rabbi Glenn Blank Meets: 5042 Schantz Rd Serv: Every Shabat 10am, [email protected] followed by oneg & classes (610) 289-2011 www.beitsimcha.org Norfolk: Beth Messiah-UMJC/IMJA Rabbi Dr. Joseph Rosenfarb Nevada Bethlehem: Beth El Gibor-IAMCS Messianic Rabbi Mark Shulman Meets: 7130 Granby St Serv: Fri 7:30pm & Sat 10:30am Las Vegas: Lev HaShem Shmuel Oppenheim Meets: 3646 N Rancho Meets: 1555 Linwood St 18017 Serv: Fri 7:30pm & Sat 10:30am (757) 423-3440 www.bethmessiahsynagogue.com Dr Serv: Fri 7:30pm & Sat 10:30am (702) 869-8983 (610) 419-1464 www.bethelgibor.org [email protected] www.levhashem.org [email protected] Lancaster/Lititz: The Seed Of Abraham Lloyd Elias Scalyer Meets: Washington Reno/Sparks: Beth Am Echad-AMC Messianic Rabbi Hy Kozak “The Mill’’ 813 Rothsville Rd Serv: Sat 10:15am (717) 687-8913 Lynnwood: Shorashim/Roots Messianic Congregation Pastor www.messiahpa.org [email protected] Meets: 1509 Greg St Sparks Warehouse Christian Ministries Shepherd David Yaniv Meets: 5823 176th St SW Serv: Sat 10:30am Philadelphia: Congregation Beth Yeshua-IAMCS Sr Messianic Rabbi Serv: Sat 10:30am (775) 356-1096 [email protected] (425) 322-5858 www.rootsmessianic.org [email protected] David Chernoff Meets: 7501 Haverford Ave Serv: Fri 8pm & Sat 11am Mercer Island: Beit Messiah Messianic Synagogue-IAMCS Prayer Wed 7:30pm (215) 477-2706 www.cby.org [email protected] Rabbi Matt Rosenberg Meets: United Methodist Church 7070 New Jersey Pittsburgh: Maoz Tzur–Rock of Ages Messianic Jewish Congregation SE 24 St Serv: Sat10:30am (206) 232-0490 www.beitmessiah.com Fairview: Beth Goyim-CTOMC Rabbi Andrew Dinnerman Meets: Leader Abraham E Sandler II Meets: Rock of Ages Church, 124 [email protected] 20-26 Industrial Ave 2nd Floor (elevator available) Serv: Sat 11am Pearl Ave Cheswick 15024 & other locations throughout Pittsburgh Bible study Tues 7pm (973) 338-7800 Live Internet Broadcasting Weekly Home Fellowships, Public Services two Fri nights each month Tues, Thurs & Shabbat, WBGMC Internet Radio www.bethgoyim.org (412) 609-1117 www.rockofagesmjc.org Jackson/Central Jersey: Beth Zion-IAMCS Rabbi Jan & Marlene Pittsburgh: Shoresh David-UMJC Leader Nathan Puro Meets: Rosenberg Meets: 68 Bennetts Mills Rd Jackson Serv: Sat 10:45am 105 N Park St, Monroeville Serv: Sat 10am & Wed Chavurah 7pm (732) 928-7700 www.bethzion.org [email protected] (412) 829-0810 www.shoreshdavid.com Livingston: Beth Messiah Congregation-AMC Rabbi Irving Salzman Yardley: Kehilat Ari Yehudah/Congregation Lion of Judah-IAMCS Meets: 15 N Livingston Ave Serv: Sat 10:30am (973) 994-4431 Congregational Leader Peggy Michalchuk Meets: Yardley Cmty Ctr 64 www.beth-messiah.org [email protected] S Main St Serv: Sat 10am (215) 493-4460 www.lojpa.org New York Tennessee Bellmore: Shaarei Ha Shamayim-UMJC/Tikkun Rabbi Ron Corbett Bristol: Ari Yehudah Congregation-IAMCS Rabbi Joseph Bell Meets: 2740 Martin Ave (Rambo Hall) Serv: Sat 11am Wed Meets: The Manna Bagel Co 634 State St Serv: Sat 10:30am Chavurah (516) 538-4699 (423) 652-1188 www.forzionsake.org [email protected] Buffalo: Congregation Brith Hadoshah-IAMCS Rabbi Frank Lowinger Bristol: Beth Shalom-HCGC Messianic Pastor Brent Fiedler Meets: 2608 Elmwood Ave Serv: Sat 9:30am (Shabbat school) Meets: Addilynn Memorial United Methodist Church 3225 Avoca Rd Serv: 10:30am (716) 873-8986 Serv: Sat 1:30pm (423) 967-4228 www.messianicbethshalom.org Long Island/Plainview: Shuvah Yisrael-IAMCS/UMJC Memphis: B’rit Hadasha-UMJC/Tikkun Congregational Leader Rabbi David & Rebbitzen Helene Rosenberg, M.Div. Meets: Chad Holland Meets: 6320 N Quail Hollow Rd Serv: Sat 88 Southern Parkway 11803 Serv: Sat. 10:30am (866) 463-7742 Torah study 9am & Shabbat service10:30am (901) 685-9267 (516) 333-7227 (866) 4-Messiah www.Shuvah.com www.brithadasha.org [email protected] Manhattan/Upper Westside: Kehilath HaDerekh-IAMCS/UMJC Nashville: Kol Dodi Messianic Congregation-IAMCS Rabbi Ken Alpren Rosh Kehilah Reb Benzi HaLevi Sherry Meets: 236 W 72nd St Meets: 101 Bowling Ave 37205 (West End Area) Serv: Shabbat 11am Serv: Sat 2pm (917) 670-8989 www.MessianicNewYork.org Offering Shabbat School, Yeshiva Classes and services in Chattanooga [email protected] (615) 973-6933 www.koldodi.org

May/June 2012 The Messianic Times 23 MessianicCongregationalDirectory Newcastle: Beit Tikvah-IAMCS Rabbi Hylan Slobodkin Meets: Thornhill: City of David-IAMCS Rabbi Jeffrey Forman Meets: Caulfield South: Beth HaMashiach-IAMCS Rabbi Lawrence Hirsch 7935-136th Ave SE Serv: Sat 10:30am (425) 793-3000 Gates of Zion Centre 7775 Yonge St Serv: Fri 7:45pm & Sat 11am Meets: 206 Bambra Rd South Caulfield Serv: Sat 10:30am www.beittikvah.us [email protected] (905) 761-8118 www.cityofdavid.com Ph: 61 (3) 9563-5544 Olympia/Lacey/Tumwater: Chesed v’Shalom Ministries Rabbi James Toronto: Congregation Melech Yisrael-IAMCS Rabbi Ya’acov Farber Melbourne: Celebrate Messiah Australia Director Lawrence Hirsch Pace Meets: 3rd and C St Tumwater Serv: Sat 10am (360) 736-1601 Meets: 272 Ranee Ave Serv: Fri 7:30pm & Sat 11am Bible studies PO Box 304 Caulfield South Victoria 3162 Ph: 61 (3) 9563-5544 www.cvsm.us Sat 9am & Mon 7:30pm (416) 785-7612 www.cmy.on.ca www.celebratemessiah.com.au [email protected] Port Orchard: Beth Yeshua-A Messianic Torah Congregation Sydney: Agudat Bris Director Covenant Fellowship Elder Maurie Holl- Elder Dale Jacobs Meets: First Baptist Church, 2308 Sidney Ave Quebec man Mail: 44 Mosaic Ave, The Ponds NSW 2769 Ph: 61-408426944 98366 Serv: Sat 11:30am (877) 779-1790 Montreal: Beth Ariel Congregation-AMC Jacques Gabizon Meets: www.agudatbris.com.au [email protected] www.bethyeshuagigharbor.org 6297 Monkland Blvd Serv: Sat 11 am Children’s program, Tweed Heads Region: The International Messianic Community of Faith Seattle: Beth Ha Shofar-UMJC Meets: 13001 37th Ave S Hebrew lessons & Messianic Dance (888) 685-5902 IMCF Rebbe Dr Les Aron Gosling Yeshiva Meets: Shabbat at Pottsville NSW Serv: Sat 10am Torah study Tues 7pm Hebrew classes offered www.arielcanada.com 2489 Contact Rebbetzin at PO Box 6523 Tweed Heads South 2486 (206) 246-5345 www.shofar.org [email protected] Ph: 61(2) 6676-3969 [email protected]

Wisconsin Belarus Milwaukee: Beth Messiah-Milwaukee-IAMCS Rabbi Frank Susler International Minsk: Brit Chadasha-IAMCS PO Box 66 220012 Ph: 375 172 13 10 59 Meets: 9900 W Capitol Dr Serv: Sat 10am (414) 464-9782 Fax: 375 172 54 16 96 www.bethmessiah.us Israel Ariel: Kehilat Ariel Ph: 972 (3) 936-4771 [email protected] Czech Republic Be’er Sheva: Kehilat Nachalat Yeshua Leader Howard Bass Meets: Pilsen: Chajim-Chadashim-IAMCS Spolkova 19 312 00 Mr.Jaroslav Kupka 15 HaAvot St Bible study/prayer Ph: 972 (8) 627-7022 Fax: 627-7936 [email protected] [email protected]@iamcs.org Canada www.streamsinthenegev.com [email protected] Eilat: Kehilat Eilat PO Box 501 88104 Ph: 972 (8) 637-2859 Belgium Alberta Haifa: Kehilat HaCarmel Mail: PO Box 7004 Haifa 31070 Serv: Sat Hainaut: Beth Yeshoua Rabbi Lorenzo Grecco Shabbat Serv: Sat 3pm Mail: 11am [email protected] 219 Rue de Baume, 7100 La Louvière. Serving Yeshua since 1987. Calgary: Beth Shechinah Meets: 2635-32nd St SW Serv: Sat 10:30am Haifa: Kehilat Kerem El For details, please email [email protected] Ph. 32 (2) 344-7951 [email protected] www.bethyeshoua.org (403) 256-3478 or (403) 685-4170 www.bethshechinah.com Haifa: Return to Tzion-Shavei Tzion Leader Leon Mazin Serv: Sat 11am Brussels: Messianic Centre of Brussels Rabbi Paul Ghennassia Shabbat & [email protected] 972 (0) 50-2010-261 www.shaveitzion.org [email protected] holiday services outreach ministry Ph: 32 (2) 344-7951 Edmonton: Congregation Beit Mashiach Messianic Pastor Andrew Jaffa: Kehilat Beit Immanuel Leader David Lazarus Meets: 8 Auerbach Ketel Meets: 12404 140th Ave Serv: Sat 10:30am (780) 901-5859 St Serv: Fri 6:30pm Hebrew with English/Russian translations www.beitmashiach.com [email protected] Brazil Ph: 972 (3) 682-1459 Lethbridge: Beit Tefillah Sameach (Joyful House of Prayer) Belo Horizonte: Congregação Judaico-Messiânica Har Tzion-UMJC [email protected] www.beitimmanuel.org Congregational Leaders Sidney and Linda Speakman Meets: 733-13th Rabbi Marcelo Miranda Rua Funchal 185 Bairro Ouro Preto 31310 Jerusalem: Beit Geulah Ph: 972 (2) 583-4949 St N Serv: Sat11am (403) 634-8200 [email protected] 440 Ph: 55 (31) 3498-1761 www.ensinandodesiao.org.br Jerusalem: Kehilat El Roii Ofer Amitai-Pastor Meets: Prayer Tower, Rio De Janeiro: Congregação Judaico-Messiânica Beit Tefilat Yeshua Nova Scotia Jaffa St 97. 14th Floor Serv: Sat 5pm [email protected] Eduardo Stein Maroniene Shabbat Serv: Friday 7:30pm Saturday 9am Jerusalem: Kehilat Even Yisrael Nikoli Lemeshkin Meets: Baptist Halifax/Dartmouth: Congregation Ner Tamid-CTOMC Ph: 55 (21) 252-71368 judaismomessianico.com.br House Center 4 Narkis St. Serv: Fri. 5:30pm Russian speaking/ Rabbi Avner Solomon Sat 10:45am Call for location (902) 444-0153 Sao Paulo: Beit Mashiach Leader Gilberto Branco Meets: Rua translations available. Ph. 972 (2) 651-1536 www.nertamid.ca Joaquim Murtinho 252- Bom Retiro Serv: Fri Kabalat Shabat 19:30 Jerusalem: Kehilat Kol BaMidbar Meets: 32 Shivtei Yisrael Torah Service Sat 10am Ph: 55 (11) 3312-0176 Serv: Sat & Wed 7pm Ph: 972 (5) 428-2803 www.beitmashiach.org Ontario www.voice-wilderness.com [email protected] Ottawa: Ottawa Messianic Congregation Meets: 82 Colonnade Rd N Jerusalem: Shemen Sasson John Myers Senior Pastor Meets: Serv: Fri 7:15pm Sat 1:30pm Bible Study (613) 736-9480 downtown Jerusalem Serv: Sat evening Ph: 972 (2) 623-5155 El Salvador www.ottawamessianic.com www.shemensasson.com San Salvador: B’nei Israel-IAMCS Residencial Monte Bello, Calle Monte Karmiel: Kehilat HaDerech PO Box 502 Karmiel 20101 Cristo #4B Rabbi Jorge Isaias Ascencio Ph.and Fax: 503-2274-9032 Serv: Sat 10:30am Ph: 972 (4) 988-5916 [email protected] [email protected] Karmiel: Nachalei Mayim Chayim Shabbat Serv: Sat 11am study Tues 7pm Ph: 972 (4) 998-1374 [email protected] Finland Kiryat Yam: Ohalei Rachamim (Tents of Mercy) PO Box 1018 Kiryat Helsinki: Shorashim Fellowship in Finland-IAMCS Ruoholahdenkatu 16 Ed Yam 29109 Ph: 972 (4) 877-7921 [email protected] Marvin Ph: +358-40-731-6843 [email protected]@iamcs.org Kfar Saba: Kehilat Ha Ma’ayan Leader Tony Sperandeo PO Box 827 Kfar Saba 44108 Serv: Sat 11am Ph: 972 (9) 766-2351 France Fax: 766-2350 www.kehilat-hamaayan.org.il Marseilles: Gan-Eden Congregation-IAMCS 11 rue Delille 13002 David Modi’in: Kehilat Modi’in Interim Pastor Ray Pritz Shabbat 10:30am Cohen Ph: 00-33-4-91-90-85-40 www.gan-eden.over-blog.com & mid-week meetings Ph: 972 (2) 534-3882 [email protected] [email protected] Paris: El Beth El-IAMCS Emmanuel Rodriguez-Perez 1 Rue Omer Talon Netanya: Beit Asaph Leaders Evan Thomas, David Loden & Lev Guler Serv: Sat 4pm & Tues 7pm Ph: 33 (14) 805-8973 Serv: Sat 10:30am Hebrew with English/Russian translations Ph: 972 (9) 885-0029 www.beit-asaph.org.il Germany Rishon L’Tzion: Grace and Truth Christian Congregation Berlin: Beit Sar Shalom-CPM Rabbi Vladimir Pikman Shabbat meetings Meets: Rechov Shmotkin 8 Old Industrial zone of Rishon L’Tzion & Bible studies Ph: 49(30) 3083-8130 office@ BeitSarShalom.org Serv: Sat 10:00am Ph/Fax: 972 (3) 966-1898 [email protected] Tel-Aviv: Adonai Roi Avi Mizrachi Meets: Beit Immanuel, 8 Auerbach St (off Eliat St) Serv: Sat 11:00am 972 (3) 621-2100 Dugit Center 1 Ben Yehuda Great Britain St Open Mon–Thurs noon to 7pm www.dugit.org [email protected] Bristol: Shaqad Mr. John Mott & Steve Chappell Meets: 52 Cam Tel Av iv: Brit Olam Fellowship 22 Ben Atar St PO Box 5023 61050 Green Ashmead Hall Cam Dursley S Gloucestershire GL 115HN Serv: Sat 10am Hebrew with English translation Ph: 44 (117) 5354-7494 Ph: 972 (3) 527-2845 [email protected] Eastbourne: Mayim Chayim Messianic Congregation Leader Tel Av iv: Kehilat Tel Aviv Contact Eli at Ph: 972 (5) 449-1539 Brian Bailey Meets: 8 Saffrons Rd (Old Orchard Rd entrance) [email protected] Serv: Sat 12noon Ph: 44 (132) 372-4065 [email protected] Tel-Aviv: Kehilat Simchat Yeshua Michael Zinn Meets: 5 Brenner St Leicester: Teshuvah Messianic Synagogue-UBMJC Rabbi Dr Julian Serv: Sat 11am Ph: 972 (2) 563-2005 Scott Serv: Sat 10:30am & mid-week prayer and fellowship Tel-Aviv: Tiferet Yeshua Leader Ari Sorko Ram Meets: 38 Yitzhak Sade Ph: 44 (116) 212-7990 www.ubmjc.org/teshuvah Serv: Sat 11am Ph: 972 (3) 639-0505 www.tiferetyeshua.co.il London: Beit Nitzachon-BMJA Elder Lionel Zucker Meets: Stamford Hill (in Hebrew) [email protected] United Church, Portland Ave Stamford Hill NI6 6SB Serv: Sat 11am Tiberias: Kehilat Peniel Daniel Yahav The Galilee Experience Ph:(44)020-8986-2000 For information contact Deaconess Bernice Allen Serv: Sat 11am Ph: 972 (4) 670-8705 London: Beit Sar Shalom-BMJA Leader Daniel Nessim Meets: Tiberias: Morning Star Fellowship Contact Claude for information at: 851 Finchley Rd, Golders Green NW11 8LY Serv: Fri 7:30pm Sat [email protected] 10:30am Ph: 0788 632-4869 www.beitsarshalom.org.uk Manchester: Sulam Ya’aqov Messianic Fellowship-BMJA Pastor John E. Young. PO Box 5, Droylsden M43 6EL Contact: 0161-371-1877 Argentina [email protected] Buenos Aires: Bet Sar Shalom Rabbi Ricardo Chemi Meets: Sarmiento Norwich: Adat Yeshua-UBMJC Rabbi Andrew Sheldrake 3726 & 3730 Serv: Fri 7pm Kabalat Shabat & Sat 6pm Havdala Ph: Serv: Sat 10:30am also mid-wk prayer 44 (160) 346-4367 54 (11) 4865-3567 beitsarshalom.org.ar www.adatyeshua.co.uk [email protected] Nottingham: Beit Shalom Peter Avallone Ph: 44 (115) 929-7112 Australia www.restoreallisrael.com [email protected] Bondi Beach: Immanuel Messianic Fellowship Rev Moshe Elijah Sat Sunderland: Beit Yeshua Laurence Levine Mail: 30 Gatwick & Sun Rock of Truth Ministry Box 119 Bondi Beach NSW Australia Rd Grindon Sunderland SR4 9QH Ph: 44 (191) 534-3786 Ph: 61 (2) 9130-7988 www.beityeshua.org.uk [email protected] Bondi Junction: Beth Messiah Bob Mendelsohn Meets: 576 Oxford Surrey: Zera Avraham Messianic Synagogue-UBMJC 108-112 Chipstead St Bondi Junction Sydney NSW Serv: Sat 10am Ph: 61(2) 9388-0559 Valley Rd Coulsdon CR5 3BA Rabbi Brian Sabey Ph: +447919043179 www.jewsforjesus.org.au [email protected] Torah Service 10:30am [email protected]

24 The Messianic Times May/June 2012 MessianicCongregationalDirectory Kyrgyzstan Crimea: Jewish Messianic Congregation Mazl Tov-IAMCS str. Bishkek: Beit Yeshua Alexander Rossinskiy Serv: Sat 16:00 Mail: Molodiojnaja 1 apt 53 Novoozjornoe 97491 Rabbi Natalia PO Box 642 Bishkek 720001 Ph: 996 (312) 620-248 [email protected] Kimovna Kuchuhidze Ph: +380646946709 [email protected] Dniprodzerjynsk: Messiah-IAMCS Kharivonova str. 11 flat 11 51918 Mexico Senior Pastor Vladimir Zaytsev [email protected] Guadalajara: Yeshua Ben David-IAMCS Rabino Manuel Herson: Hava Nagila Herson-IAMCS 295 Strelkovoy Divizii 4/55 Hernández Apartado Postal 5-455 Guadalajara Jalisco 45000 73003 Rabbi Sergey Movshovich [email protected]@iamcs.org Ph: 52 (33) 3642-6535 [email protected] Hmelmitsky: Hava Nagila Camenets-Podolsky-IAMCS Schevchenko Mexico D.F.: Kehila B’nei Torah-IAMCS Calle Norte 86-A #4308 str.41Camenets-Podolsky Rabbi Jacub Juriy Vladimirovich Ph: Col. Malinche 07890 Rabbi Ishmael Mizrahi Portillo Ph 52 (55) +3809664888207 [email protected] 5817 2626 Fax: 52 (55) 2164 6726 www.geocities.com/beneitorah Kiev: Ner haShem Kiev-IAMCS Congregational Leader Andrei Denukov [email protected] Ph: +380678045913 [email protected]@iamcs.org Nikolaev: Jewish Messianic Religious Congregation-IAMCS Netherlands Schevchenko Str. 71 Yuri Borisovich Korshun Ph: 8 (063) 226-21-65 [email protected] [email protected]@iamcs.org Amersfoort, Utrecht: Messianic Fellowship Benee Awraham- Nikolaevskaja: Cala Shel Mashiah-IAMCS Dzerjinskogo 6 str MP Coordinator Anton de Ruiter Meets: Evangelische Hogeschool Pervomajsk 55200 Pastor Oleg Leonidovich Sulima Ph: Drentsestraat 1(near train station) Serv: 2nd & 4th Shabbat each +380638929750 [email protected] [email protected] month, & Biblical Feasts Mail: Oud Veldzichtlaan 24, 7322 HT Odessa: Gateway to Zion-Congregation of Odessa-IAMCS US mailing- Apeldoorn, Ph.+31-(0)-55-360-5486 www.benee-awraham.nl address: Rabbi David Schneier 414 N Guillemard St Pensacola, FL [email protected] 32501 [email protected] Amsterdam: Beth Yeshua Messianic Congregation Meets: Zhitomir: Kehilat Brit-IAMCS Gagarina str. 34 1002 Rabbi Veluwelaan 20 Amsterdam (near Rai Station) Serv: Sat 11:30am Sergey Pinchuk Ph: +380412341769 [email protected] Ph: +31 (20) 890-6950 www.beth-yeshua.nl www.womanofvalor.org Amsterdam, Noord Holland: Shiloach Messianic Fellowship Uganda -IAMCS/MP Congregational Leader David Warnink Meets: Mhale: Yeshua Messianic Synagogue-IAMCS Rabbi Solomon W ‘Keerpunt’, Address: Arent Janszoon Ernststraat 302, Amsterdam- Isabirye Congregation of Abayudaya Jewish Believer. Contact Rabbi Buitenveldert Mail: Steenderenstraat 49, 1107 LB Amsterdam, for location & times Ph: 256-773-459325 [email protected] Ph. (0)-20-609-0936 www.shiloach.nl [email protected] Apeldoorn, Gelderland: Messianic Platform (Dutch Alliance of Uruguay Messianic Congregations & House Groups) Coordinators Anton Montevideo: Adat HaMashiach-IAMCS Carlos de la vega 4724/300 de Ruiter & Jochanan Castelijn Meets: Oud Veldzichtlaan 24, 11900 Messianic Pastor Ubaldo Bas Ph: 598-99-474-932 Ph. +31-(0)-55-360-5486 www.messianicplatform.nl www.mesianicaadat.org [email protected] [email protected] Den Haag, Zuid Holland: Messianic Congregation Lama’an Tsion Venezuela -MP Elder Jochanan Castelijn Meets: Noorderkerk, Schuytstraat Caracas: Bet El Shadai-UMJC Rabbi Eliezer Bograd Meets: Av 9-11 Mail: Nieuwe Havendwarsstraat 56, 2511 ZC Den Haag S Rafael Quinta Fragen Urb La Florida Serv: Sat 10:30am & 6:30pm Havdalah Ph: 58 (212) 731-6597 www.betelshadai.org Ph. +33-(0)-61-915-2146 [email protected] Drachten, Friesland: Messianic Congregation Mayaan Yeshua-MP Zambia Elder Gerard J Wijtsma Meets: De Rank, Berglaan 10 (Centre) Lusaka: Zambia Messianic Fellowship-IAMCS Rabbi Alex Yalenga www.mayaan,nl Meets: Plot 34285 Shantumbu Rd, Rockfield Serv: Sat 10:30am Ph: 260 (21) 123-4791/260 (97) 785-8061 New Zealand www.zambiamessianicfellowship.info Auckland: Bet Ya’akov Elder Richard Green Serv: Sat Call for more information 64 (21) 119-9609 [email protected] Auckland: Talmidei Yeshua Messianic Kehilah Nasi (President) Graeme Purdie PO Box 44-118, Auckland 1246 Meets: Sat 10:30am Ph: (09)846-8618 [email protected] www.messianic.org.nz ChurcheswholoveIsrael Paraguay Asuncion: Beit Shalom Messianic Renewed Synagogue Messianic United States Rabbi Julio Dam Ph: 595-21-606-608 www.beitshalom.org Florida [email protected] Hollywood: Iglesia Gracia Y Verdad Pastor Carlos Gabriel Meets: 7200 Davie Rd Ph: (305) 610-8145 [email protected] Peru Lima: Bejatzrot Yeshua-IAMCS Manuel Zelaya 449 Urb. Pamplona North Carolina Baja 29 Rabbi Enrique Huaman Ph/Fax: 00-511-276-7759 Asheville: Sunnyside Missionary Church Pastor Neal Adams [email protected] Secretary-Treasurer [email protected] Romania South Dakota Sioux Falls: Christ Community Ministries Contact Bernie Schock Oradea: Bat-Tzion Messianic Congregation Rabbi David Nagy (605)371-1889 Ph: 40 (74) 003-8735 www.mesianic.ro [email protected] Texas Republic of Panama Brownsville: Free Lutheran Fellowship Church Pastor Joseph O’Bell Panama City: Sinagoga Judio Mesianica Bet Yeshua Rabino Ricardo Meets: Motel 6 North Conference Center Serv: Sun 10am Kraus Serv: Fri 7:30pm & Sat 10am Yeshiva 1pm Edificio Tikal via (956) 466-5580 transist mica Ph: 507-261-9875 [email protected] Fabens: Shalom Christian Church Pastor Victor Franco Ph: (915) 764-4464 [email protected] Spain Madrid: Community Shema Sefarad Rabbi Mijael Sofer Washington Bothell: Rejoice Fellowship Ministries Pastors Francis & Betty Bittner, Ph: (676) 04 05 61 www.shemasefarad.org Joshua & Keya Bittner Meets: 16110 40th Dr SE 98102 Toledo: Shalom Sefarad Samuel del Coso Roman (425) 488-4046 Tls: +34.925.357618 and +34.659.682031 www.shalomsefarad.com [email protected] Canada Ukraine Nova Scotia Westville: Heart to Heart Ministry Association Crimea: Hava Nagila-IAMCS International st. 138 c. Yevpatoriya Leaders Jack & Lynda MacDonald Ph: (902) 396-4759 97403 Rabbi Vilenskiy Viktor Yurievich Ph: 8 (06569) 5-17-27 [email protected] [email protected] Crimea: Hava Nagila Chernomorsk-IAMCS Lenina str. 25 Ontario Chernomorsk Rabbi Sergey Vjacheslavovich Umma Niagara Falls Niagara International Worship Centre Ph: +380656951717 [email protected] Pastor Christer Ireborg Meets: 6846 Frederica St. L2G 1E2 Ph: Crimea: Hava Nagila Kerch-IAMCS Kazakova str. 44/1 Kerch (905) 356-0635 www.worshipniagara.org 98306 Rabbi Pavel Eduardovich Koshelev Ph: +380677733365 [email protected] [email protected] Crimea: Hava Nagila Pheodosia-IAMCS Zapadnaya str. 21/2 Pheodosia Rabbi Alexandr Viktorovich Stanchevsky Ph: International +380990813826 Fax: +380962342698 [email protected] El Salvador Crimea: Hava Nagila Sevastopol-IAMCS Vosstavshih square 6 San Salvador: Adat Shalem Congregation Pastor Rodolfo Savastopol Rabbi Mihail Aleksandrovich Kovalchuk Ph: Olivares Ph: 503 (2) 286-0233 [email protected] +380656951727 [email protected] Crimea: Hava Nagila Simferopol-IAMCS Sevastopolskaka tr. 54 France Toulouse: Eglise Evangelique de Montaudran (LAMPE) Simferopol Rabbi Dmitry Vladimirovich Tjulin Pastor Roy Reese Ph: 33 (561) 998-042 Ph: +380656951727 [email protected] Crimea: Hava Nagila Yalta-IAMCS Lomonosova st. 27 Yalta Singapore 98600 Rabbi Rusran Urievish Taranenko Ph: +380964826021 Jews for Jesus (Singapore Chapter): Ph: 65-9665-7734 [email protected] [email protected] May/June 2012 The Messianic Times 25 Election2012 Last Man (Not) Standing by Doug Patton hat do you call a guy with a closet full of sweater vests, three college Wdegrees, a wife of twenty years, seven children and a deep faith in God? Until recently, it might well have been “Mr. President.” Now “Mr. Vice President” is a better bet. As of this writing, former United States Senator Rick Santorum has suspended his campaign for the presidency. One reason could well be his three-year-old daughter, Bella, who was born with Trisomy 18, a rare genetic condition. Bella was hospitalized twice during the course of her father’s campaign. Whatever the reason, even as it became obvious that former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney would be the Republican nominee, no one could deny that Santorum had demonstrated the heart of a winner. The 53-year-old former Pennsylvania Senator’s campaign was an inspiration. He started the primary season as a jet-black dark horse: no money, no organization, and little hope of overcoming the recognition and financial advantage enjoyed by several other candidates. Santorum was given little chance to advance past the Iowa caucuses in January—until he won them. He visited all 99 counties, holding town hall meetings all across the state—nearly 400 in all. Whether there were ten people or 100 (and there were many more of the former than the latter), he remained until the last hand was shaken and the last question answered. It was retail politics at its finest. During his steady ascent from obscurity to serious candidate, Santorum Above: watched one candidate after another rise and fall. First, it was former Governor Rick Santorum and his young Tim Pawlenty, who dropped out in August 2011 after losing the Ames Straw daughter Bella Poll to fellow Minnesotan Michele Bachmann, the feisty congresswoman from Minneapolis. She was soon (but briefly) replaced by Governor Rick Perry, who rose and fell faster than a dry tumbleweed in a West Texas dust storm. Rick Santorum: Then it was Herman Cain’s turn. The Atlanta businessman came on Maybe the next VP? strong before being hit with questionable accusations of sexual harassment. He dropped out in December. Cain’s withdrawal was quickly followed by the rise of Newt Gingrich, whose candidacy had been on life support until he distinguished himself in the televised GOP debates. Gingrich was actually leading in the polls in Iowa in December, but a slew of negative television commercials by the Romney machine sent the former House Speaker’s campaign into another tailspin. It was that exact moment when Rick Santorum began to rise in the polls, and he won Iowa by a mere handful of votes. He then went on to win primaries in ten more states, but in the end, Romney’s wealth and organization were Santorum 4Continued from front page impossible to overcome. Yet, there is no denying that Santorum had gained the respect of many Republicans, Independents and even Democrats during the course of his campaign. As we go to press in the latter part of April, the question is this: Will Santorum likens Israel to Czechoslovakia in the late 1930s—a small nation that has never Mitt Romney pick Rick Santorum as his running mate? And if so, what been in greater danger of disappearing. “Today, Israel is surrounded by an armed alliance kind of president would Santorum make if he suddenly had to step into of Jihadist fundamentalists and nationalists, from North to South to East,” he observes. “To that office? the West is the Mediterranean Sea, where Israel’s enemies would like to push her Jewish A devout Catholic, his passionate defense of innocent human life population. President Obama has put Israel’s very existence in more peril.” and traditional marriage was always at the core of Santorum’s 16 years in Santorum is particularly adamant about taking a tough stand against Iran in their attempt Congress. However, he has also been a national security hawk who believes to develop nuclear weapons. When he gave his first speech on this issue during his presidential strongly in aiding America’s allies—especially Israel—and he carried these campaign last November, he called for a preemptive strike if U.S. intelligence continues to show themes into his campaign for the presidency. that Iran is moving in that direction. It was the same week the International Atomic Energy He refers to Israel as “our anchor in the Middle East,” and has been Agency reported that Iran appeared to be doing just that. highly critical of President Barack Obama’s call for a return to the Jewish He repeated his call for a preemptive strike before the American Israel Public Affairs state’s pre-1967 borders (1948). “Does the President even realize what he Committee (AIPAC) conference in Washington, D.C. in March. “We need to put that ultimatum said?” Santorum asks. “The 1967 borders include East Jerusalem—the in place,” he intoned, “and we need to be prepared, if that ultimatum is not met, to engage Prime site of the Western Wall—and would make Israel nine miles wide at its Minister Netanyahu and the people of Israel in an effort to make sure that if they do not tear most vulnerable point. Making matters worse, President Obama said the down those facilities, we will tear them down.” Palestinian people must have the right to govern themselves, and reach He also accused President Obama of doing little to prevent Iran from developing nuclear their potential, in ‘a sovereign and contiguous state.’ Take a look at a map capabilities. “He says he has Israel’s back, but from everything I’ve seen, he has turned his back of Israel and see what this ‘contiguous state’ means: transecting Israel in on the people of Israel,” Santorum remarked of Obama. two, further weakening her defenses from terrorism, missile launches, In an op-ed piece published at National Review Online, Santorum called Obama’s Middle or invasion. As Bibi Netanyahu puts it, ‘Peace based on illusions will East policy “immoral,” decrying the way the President has dealt with the major players in the eventually crash on the rocks of Middle East reality.’ region. “He told Egypt’s Hosni Mubarek he had to leave office,” Santorum argues, “but he has “Who do we think will be the worse off victim in such a crash?” coddled Syria, rewarding that rogue state with an ambassadorship President George W. Bush Santorum continues. “This is why Ronald Reagan said: ‘In the pre-1967 pulled years ago. Despite that country’s more brutal crackdown on its own people, President borders, Israel was barely ten miles wide at its narrowest point. The bulk of Obama has yet to call for Syria’s leader, Bashar Assad, to leave power. The confusion to most of Israel’s population lived within artillery range of hostile armies. I am not us—but not to our enemies or Israel’s—is precisely this: Mubarek was an ally, and the key leader about to ask Israel to live that way again.’” in Egypt responsible for maintaining peace with Israel. Assad is an enemy, heading one of the A staunch advocate of Jerusalem as Israel’s rightful capital, Santorum chief state sponsors of terrorism in the Middle East. has stated flatly that as long as the Palestinian Authority and others in the “Israel has long enjoyed the support of the United States,” Santorum concludes. “Our mutual Middle East refuse to accept the Jewish state’s right to exist, there can be ties have been historical, cultural, religious, and strategic. Today, those ties have been put in more no peace. “And we should not force Israel into any negotiation until that doubt than at any other time in our relationship. Israel hasn’t changed; the United States has. condition is met,” he adds. But the United States, a large and powerful country, is not in danger of disappearing. The same An exasperated Santorum tells audiences he doesn’t know how cannot be said of Israel, and it is to our shame we have increased that risk for the Jewish State. foreign leaders can negotiate with a leader like Obama. “The President One can only hope this dangerous turn in our foreign policy will change. In the meantime, it throws Hosni Mubarek under the bus,” he exclaims, “then the new is the duty of each and every American citizen who abhors terrorism and supports freedom to military regime in Egypt brokers a deal between Hamas and the stand up and say, ‘I support Israel.’” Palestinian Authority. Then the President rewards that by saying we’re Will Mitt Romney, who appears to be sailing toward the Republican presidential nomination, going back to the 1967 borders. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist if select the former Pennsylvania Senator as his running mate? There will be many candidates from you’re sitting in the Arab-Muslim world thinking, ‘Well, how do we deal which he will be able to choose, but he will be hard-pressed for find a greater advocate for Israel with this guy?’” and the Jewish people than Rick Santorum. MT 26 The Messianic Times May/June 2012 MessianicMilestones Obituary Birthday

On March 17, Marie Gerlach Einspruch, Elisabeth (“Elsie”) Hoffman just beloved wife of the late Reverend Dr. celebrated her 83rd birthday on Henry Einspruch, died peacefully at March 15th in Irvine, California. the Village at Rockville, Maryland, After World War II, she married where she resided for the past 22 Wolf Rosenfarb in Germany. After a years. Born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania few years of waiting in the Displaced in 1909, and having a Pennsylvania Persons camp in Germany, they set Dutch background, she had no trouble sail to America with their first born understanding Yiddish. She became the son, Joseph. Their first stop was New official typesetter for the Yiddish New York, before moving to Cincinnati, Testament, translated by Dr. Einspruch. Ohio. Two additional children were They married in 1941. When Dr. born, Frances and Michael. The Einspruch died in 1977, she became entire Rosenfarb family came to the director of the mission, known faith in Yeshua the Messiah though today as the Lederer/Messianic Jewish Martin and Yohanna Chernoff and Resources International. Messianic Rabbi their congregation in Cincinnati. Barry Rubin, its current president, says Joseph became a Messianic rabbi Send us your Milestones of Marie, “She was one of the wisest at Beth Messiah Congregation in …births, bar/bat mitzvahs, graduations, women I’ve ever known; her priorities Norfolk, Virginia. Frances is married engagements, weddings, anniversaries, lead- were always in line with God’s.” A to Messianic Rabbi Larry Feldman ership transitions, obituaries, etc. to editor. funeral service was held on March 26 of Shuvah Yisrael Congregation [email protected]. Milestones must in the chapel at the Village in Rockville. in Irvine, California. Michael, a be sent as an attachment, accompanied by a She is survived by her daughter Muriel pharmacist, lives in Virginia Beach high-resolution image (300 dpi, actual size) and son-in-law Edward A. Hopkins of with his wife and 3 children. Elsie is and should include a 120-word description. Baltimore, and many loving relatives in active at Shuvah Yisrael Congregation, This is a courtesy of the Messianic Times as a Pennsylvania. and loves sharing her faith, reading free service to the community. The Messianic God’s Word, praying, and helping Times reserves the right to be selective in its everyone—especially her family. choice of milestones and to edit submissions. Anniversary $ Congregation Beth Hallel Birmingham celebrated its fifth anniversary on February THE 10th with a concert by Marty Goetz and a message from Ari Sorko-Ram from MAOZ, Tel Aviv. Over 650 people attended the erev Shabbat and Shabbat morning services. The celebration included the unveiling of two handmade menorahs, designed and Messianic Times built by Dan Katz, a Messianic Jewish craftsman from Chattanooga, Tennessee. Serving the International Messianic Jewish Community SUBSCRIPTION REQUEST FORM (US & CANADA) Full name______(Please indicate your full name—no initials) Address______City______State/Prov_____ Zip/PO Code______Country______Phone______E-mail______

Subscription Details q I wish to subscribe to the Messianic Times for 1 year at $29.99. q I wish to subscribe to the Messianic Times for 1 year at $29.99. q I wish to subscribe or renew my subscription to the Messianic Times for 2 years at the special rate of $49.99 (a $10 savings!) q I would like an e-subscription at the introductory rate of $9.99. q I would like to send a gift subscription at the special rate of $21.99. Recipient’s Full name______continued… Address______What’s in a Name4Continued from page 12 City______State/Prov_____ Zip/PO Code______Country______negative political baggage of the day attached to Azzopardi in the United States. It Phone______E-mail______has been only recently that many of the Waling family have discovered their hidden For multiple gift subscriptions, please list recipient information on a separate page. Jewish ancestry. The stories of Conversos in Spain and Mexico are becoming more widely known. Payment Information Under significant government pressure (an alternative to death), Jews converted to Catholicism and their Hebrew names disappeared. Many became Crypto-Jews, q Payment is enclosed. Check #______. or marranos, those who secretly continued to practice Judaism, yet outwardly q Please charge my payment to my credit card as indicated: pretended to be Catholic. These people did not enjoy equality, becoming targets of q Visa q MasterCard q American Express (U.S. only) occasional pogroms, and subject to the Spanish and Portuguese inquisitions of the th th 14 and 15 centuries. “It is almost certain when Columbus discovered America Card number______Expiration date ______and the Spanish started populating the western hemisphere,” Mokotoff expresses, “they were Jews!” Cardholder name______Mokotoff encourages those who want to discover their ancestry. He explains Signature______Date______that the two most common remarks he hears are that not enough details are remembered, and that records have been destroyed due to the Holocaust. V22#2 Please be sure to include this form with your remittance! Nevertheless, his emphatic response is, “It’s do-able!” He suggests pulling out family photos that may trigger memories, and looking through birth and death records, ship manifests, and naturalization papers. Please send this completed form to: In Canada: Throughout pogroms, inquisitions, and holocausts, the Jewish people have Messianic Times______Messianic Times been dispersed across inconceivable distances. With the aid of modern technology 23811 Washington Ave, C-110-384 ______PO Box 4010 and scientific DNA testing, many are just now discovering their Jewish roots. MT Murrieta, CA 92562______St Catharines. ON L2R 7S3

May/June 2012 The Messianic Times 27