Showing Up For the Jewish Community
On May 21, 2025, we were in Washington, DC when two young Jewish people were horribly murdered. Eleven days later, there was a brutal attack in Boulder, Colorado on innocent Jewish people gathered to peacefully protest for the release of the Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
Both attacks were perpetrated by deranged individuals who hate Israel and the Jewish people. Their goal...the extermination of the Jews.
The Jewish community is scared and on edge. They need us more than ever. Recently Murray was at an event where a question was asked: what can we do for the Jewish community right now? As a ministry we want to help you DO something for the Jewish community during such trying and scary times.
If you live in a Jewish neighborhood, have Jewish friends or coworkers, or frequently pass by a synagogue (or know someone who does) here are a few ideas:
If you live near a synagogue, go buy a card of sympathy and take it to them. Taking them flowers would also be appropriate. Just call ahead to let the receptionist know you plan to stop by. Please do not use New Testament references, "Christianese" terms, or evangelical language of any kind. No crosses or Christian symbols. Old Testament verses are fine.
If you have Jewish friends or associates, ask them how they’re doing. Just being available to sit and listen means a lot. Many Jewish people are feeling incredibly anxious in light of recent events.
If you live near a Jewish community center, stop in and say hello. Let them know that you’re a Christian who loves and supports the Jewish people. Jewish community centers also have special events on a regular basis. See what's going on and join them!
Go to events. In Atlanta, there’s the Jewish Film Festival, Kosher BBQ event, Holocaust remembrance days, tours of historic Jewish sites, and celebrations for the Jewish holy days. Look for these things in your city.
Join us at the Breman Museum for a tour of their Holocaust exhibit- The Absence of Humanity. If you have a group of 15 or more, reach out to Mariah to schedule a tour and hear a Holocaust survivor speak. mariah@lightofmessiah.org
Come to one of our prayer walks. This is a chance to walk alongside and pray for the orthodox Jewish community in Toco Hills as they head to Shabbat services.
Recently, Mariah had lunch with her friend Edith, an older Jewish woman that she has become close with. Mariah asked how she was feeling in light of the recent antisemitic attacks. Edith doesn’t even want to watch the news. Every time she turns on the TV, she worries about what she may see next.
Her grandson is growing up in a world where antisemitism is on the rise. Her mother is a Holocaust survivor. Watching this unfold all over again is deeply traumatic for her. Edith said it meant a lot to know that Christians care about what is happening in the Jewish community.
Now is the time to show up for the Jewish people! If you have and questions please reach out to our ministry. We're here to help!
Jewish people around the world are in massive need of prayer, support, and love. Most importantly they need the peace and comfort that only Jesus can bring.
By Mariah Charnock
Community Engagement Coordinator