We all want to make a difference here!

Making a difference is the purpose and focus of the Ebenezer office in Jerusalem. Your prayers and financial support enable us to reach out to those who have made aliyah (immigrated to Israel) and are starting a new life in the Land.

From the Jerusalem office we reach out to those in need. Many who come to our office seeking advice reveal the miracle of aliyah and the determination of olim (immigrants) to become true citizens of Israel.

We assist the olim in practical ways, such as providing emergency food parcels, helping to pay utility bills, and handling other needs. The latter includes purchasing Svetlana’s prosthesis; buying blankets for Luda, who has not been able to leave her apartment for seven years because of illness; and obtaining a walking aid for 12-year-old Valeriy, who has mobility difficulties.

Moreover, we also put people in touch with the social services, which have the relevant expertise and resources to give longer-term assistance.

Knowing the challenges that these olim face in settling in the Land, I always use Deuteronomy 31:6 (NKJV) as a prayer: “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”

Praise the Lord for the Jewish Agency’s recently introduced Red Carpet aliyah program, which assists new arrivals from some countries! Recently, at our office we were visited by a couple who had come to Israel about two weeks previously on one of the United Kingdom aliyah flights sponsored by Ebenezer. They thanked us for being involved in this program, which had helped them with everything that they had needed to get started. So they were ready to start ulpan (Hebrew-language study).

What a privilege it is to be on this side of the aliyah process: to be an instrument in welcoming, assisting, comforting, and making a difference as Jewish people are absorbed and rooted in their true homeland!

Aliyah and absorption can be filled with surprises, challenges, tears, and joy. Therefore, it is wonderful to be here in Jerusalem to help whenever needed.

Would you consider financially supporting our vital work in Israel?

Please contact me via e-mail: Shirley Lawrenson