In early May, ICEJ Germany hosted a Yom Hatzmaut (Independence Day) celebration to stand in solidarity with Israel which was attended by over 600 people. The event was filled with worship, prayer, and messages from Jerusalem.
As the Christian Embassy’s first international branch, ICEJ-Germany has a long history of pro-Israel rallies and other supportive activities. Many German Christians have felt a deep personal connection to Israel through the ICEJ, including those at the recent Independence Day gathering.
ICEJ-Germany national director Gottfried Bühler presided over the event and also led the worship team as they sought to entreat the presence of the Lord. The voices all came together with one heart, even offering worship songs in Hebrew, while flags were waved overhead.
Then came a beautifully choreographed arrangement by Profildance, led by Katja Bühler, which was dedicated to the return of the hostages. As the dance team performed, images of those still missing filled the screen behind them. This was followed by a time of prayer, with audience members embracing each other in groups and declaring freedom for the hostages, many with tears in their eyes.
Gottfried Bühler then delivered a clear message that Germany has a choice. He discussed the Church’s complicity during the Holocaust, and how even the Pope of that time stood with the Nazis. He also posed the question: “Whose side are we on? It’s time for Germany to reject rising antisemitism and to boldly stand with Israel.”
Gottfried recalled Germany’s recovery after the war, a recovery nothing short of a miracle. But with that prosperity, he said, comes responsibility. It is time to give back to Israel, to restore what was broken, and to show that this generation stands with Israel.
Nicole Yoder, ICEJ’s VP of Aid and Aliyah, came from Jerusalem to share about the ICEJ’s multi-faceted response since the October 7 attacks in 2023. From recovery and rebuilding efforts in Be’eri, Nir Oz, and Kfar Aza, to providing trauma therapy, placing bomb shelters, and aiding an agri-tech high school in the Gaza envelope, ICEJ’s support has been far-reaching. Nicole expressed her deep appreciation for Germany’s support during such times of crisis, thanking the audience for making these initiatives possible.
Nicole also shared the story of Bracha, a mother from Nir Oz who lost her husband and son and her home in the October 7 massacre. ICEJ helped her buy basic items for her new home, as small comforts can go a long way after losing everything. Nicole said Bracha’s resilience, and that of others like her, inspires hope that Israel will press on towards better days.
The gathering also heard from Yair, a paratrooper in the IDF. He had served for many months in reserve duty following the October 7 attacks, often without knowing when he would return to his wife and children. He shared about the horrors of war, the toll of separation from loved ones, and the weight of responsibility on every soldier. Yet through it all, he said, faith sustained him. Early on, he began sharing his experiences on social media, not for attention, but to tell the truth. His audience has since grown to over 27,000 followers, people seeking clarity on why Israel fights and who it fights for. “Never again means never again!” he insisted.
When it was my turn to speak, I reflected on what it means to be a true friend of Israel. I shared my own experiences post-October 7, including a story of a young girl who hid from responders until they answered her question, “Are you friendly?” This question, I believe, is one Israel is now asking the world. I also spoke about my training as a first responder, where I learned that real help must address both physical and emotional wounds. This is where ICEJ excels, not only by offering aid but listening, responding with care, and building deep trust within the Israeli communities we impact.
ICEJ-Germany’s recent Independence Day celebration was a powerful expression of solidarity, worship, prayer and shared purpose. From teachings to testimonies of resilience from the front lines, the atmosphere was one of deep compassion and support for Israel. As prayers were prayed, tears shed, and stories shared, I saw that one truth was clear: the connection between Israel and its Christian friends worldwide is alive and growing stronger.
A number of other ICEJ branch offices recently marked Israel’s 77th Independence Day with solidarity events in their respective countries around the world. In a time when Israelis face unprecedented challenges, gatherings like these serve as a reminder that they are not alone, and there is still great hope, strength and friendship to be found around the world.
Please consider blessing Israel by giving to the work and ministry of the Christian Embassy as we continue to build and mobilise support for Israel around the globe.
