Dear CUFI Supporters. Building Support for Israel from Coast to Coast

Transcription

1 FEBRUARY 2012 Building Support for Israel from Coast to Coast Dear CUFI Supporters February was a busy, productive month for CUFI. In this short month we held 37 pro-israel events in towns and cities across the country. We educated our members about ancient history and rapidly changing current events. And we called them to action on Israel s behalf. Among our February highlights was the exponential growth of our efforts in the state of Georgia. Towards the close of 2011, we sent 35 pastors from Georgia to visit Israel on our first CUFI state pastors tour. This trip was a life changing experience for our Georgia band of brothers, and they returned home determined to make Georgia the most pro-israel state in the nation. We held a full 12 events in the state of Georgia in February, and many more are still ahead. our members a chance to speak out on the crucial issue of U.S. policy towards Iran. Our latest action alert asked our members to write to their senators and ask them to support Senate Resolution 380, which states clearly and unequivocally that America s policy must be to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapons capability and that we cannot contain a nuclear Iran. The day we launched our action alert, S. Res 380 had 35 co-sponsors. A week later, it had 45 co-sponsors. With our continued efforts, this important clarification of our policy towards Iran will pass the U.S. Senate and send a clear signal to the Administration, Israel and Iran. Given the way in which our Georgia pastors trip is transforming that state, we re looking to replicate this experience in the remaining 49 states. If you know anyone interested in helping us fund a CUFI Israel trip for pastors from your state, please let us know. We are convinced that these trips are the key to building the next generation of pro-israel Christian leaders and ensuring a pro-israel America for generations to come. February s headlines were dominated by stories about Iran s nuclear program and speculation about Israel s response. As February closed, we offered Pastor John Hagee Founder and National Chairman Christians United For Israel David Brog Executive Director Christians United For Israel

2 Overview of CUFI s February Events February 7, 2012 in Bloomfield, CT Approximately 700 people attended the Standing With Israel event on Tuesday, February 7 at The First Cathedral Church in Bloomfield, CT. People came as far away as Boston to New York to hear about the work of CUFI and the upcoming Night to Honor Israel on March 11 with keynote speaker, Pastor John Hagee and Senator Joseph Lieberman. Gospel recording artist, JJ Hairston brought the music for the evening and will be the special guest artist at the March 11th Night to Honor Israel in Bloomfield, CT. February 9, 2012 CUFI Español in College Park, MD On February 9th 75 Hispanic supporters attended the Standing with Israel event hosted by Casa de Oración Maranatha in Maryland. The event included great music and the enthusiastic crowd demonstrated their love and passion for Israel and the Jewish people. The keynote Speaker was Pastor Carlos Ortiz CUFI National Hispanic Coordinator and Pastor Jose Lopez, New Jersey CUFI Hispanic State Director who focused on the importance of blessing Israel and supporting the Jewish community in these difficult times. February 9, 2012 Event at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN CUFI Eastern Regional Coordinator Victor Styrsky paid a visit to Music City to speak to Christian students about the urgent importance of standing up for Israel at Vanderbilt University. The event was hosted by the CUFI on Campus chapter at Vanderbilt University, which is planning a Night to Honor Israel in April. The gripping presentation drew parallels between the 1930s and today, and ended with an urgent call to action for all Bible-believing Christians. Several high-level Christian campus leaders, as well as CUFI state leadership attended the event as well. February 9-12, 2012 CUFI at CPAC Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. Christians United for Israel made a big splash at the 2012 Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington, D.C. The three day conference which featured three of the four top Republican Presidential Candidates was attended by thousands of people. We launched our Defend America- Vote Israel campaign at CPAC. It was exciting to see people wearing our Defend America- Vote Israel buttons and carrying our bags. Many attending welcomed CUFI to the event by signing Israel Pledge cards and receiving information for the CUFI National Summit in Washington, D.C. on July CUFI was privileged to host two separate breakout sessions at the conservative conference, the first focusing on the increasing level of anti-israel, anti-semitic rhetoric surrounding our college campuses in America. David Walker, CUFI Eastern Regional Campus Field Organizer and John Winchester, CUFI Western Regional Campus Field Organizer spoke to a crowded room sharing with them the many success stories CUFI has had on both secular and religious college campuses all over the country. Christians United for Israel Executive Director David Brog spoke to a large crowd on the last day of the conference discussing why real conservatives support Israel. Many supporters, both Christians and Jews attended the event and spoke highly of the work of CUFI afterward. February 12, 2012 CUFI Español in Severna Park, MD Over 150 Hispanics participated in the Standing With Israel event hosted at Casa de Bendiciones in Annapolis, MD. The event was opened with beautiful music and dancing and as well as the blowing of the shofars and songs signifying the past and the present and future support for Israel. Pastor Adolfo Cano spoke to the church about the importance of supporting Israel and he promised to organize a trip to Israel with his congregation. Pastor Carlos Ortiz CUFI National Hispanic Coordinator was the guest speaker. February 13, 2012 Event at University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, MN The University of Minnesota Twin Cities held its first ever CUFI event on February 13. Israel Defense Force Sgt. Benjamin Anthony spoke to a group of students and was well received, aside from the students who came to protest the event by staging a walk out. Student Liaison Cheyenne Richardson organized the event and was pleased with the turnout. She and her chapter plan to hold further events that will continue to educate fellow students on Israel and the Middle East with the help of her pastor, CUFI Executive Board Member and Region 8 Director Mac Hammond. February 14, 2012 African American Pastor & Ministry Leaders Luncheon in Seattle, WA The Pastors and Leaders Luncheon in Seattle, Washington was a great success that fully exceeded all of our expectations! Approximately 30 senior pastors and executive church leaders filled the moderate size conference room to hear about the unique and unprecedented relationship between Israel and the African-American community. Based on the stated relationship, a strong motivation and emphasis was given to why Israel and the Jewish community must be fully supported by the Christian church. Pastors and leaders expressed an overwhelming appreciation for the connection and commitment made when hearing the personal and passionate testimony of the African-American Outreach Coordinator, Pastor Michael A. Stevens and his love for Israel and the Jewish people. Pledge Cards were signed, an offering was received and many made the commitment to attend the 2012 Washington Summit on July February 15, 2012 in Columbus, GA Over 200 very enthusiastic people came out to the North Highland Assembly of God church in Columbus, GA to hear CUFI Eastern Regional Coordinator, Pastor Victor Styrsky speak on how Christians can become more active in supporting the nation of Israel and the Jewish people. The crowd stood to their feet at the end of the evening and many new members were added to Christians United For Israel. A large group of the new CUFI members stayed afterwards to discuss plans on attending the 7th Annual CUFI Washington Summit on July 16 18, February 15, 2012 Event in Columbus, GA The Collision and The Solid Rock college groups from two different churches in Columbus, GA came together to hear Pastor Victor Styrsky, CUFI Eastern Regional Coordinator give a timely message on the destiny of this generation to be known as the new Christians of this world. Pastor Styrsky exhorted the 30 college students in the room stating, All anti-semitism is sin and we must be outraged any time we see or hear it! Many of them signed up to become CUFI members and work toward starting CUFI on Campus chapters in the area. February 15, 2012 CUFI on Campus Event with Irving Roth at Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI Michigan State University in Lansing, MI kicked off their CUFI on Campus chapter with Holocaust Survivor Irving Roth. There were 75 attendees eager to hear the once-in-alifetime eyewitness account from Auschwitz and Buchenwald. Irving Roth told his inspiring and courageous story of survival which really resonated with the audience. The event garnered huge support from MI State Hillel and the Jewish Studies department.

3 Overview of CUFI s February Events February 15, 2012 African American Pastor & Ministry Leaders Luncheon in Portland, OR The Pastor and Ministry Leaders Luncheon in Portland, Oregon was a very significant event that furthered the objective of plowing and cultivating a very challenging area of our country. It is commonly realized that Oregon today is one of the most nonreligious states in the Union. For the second year in a row, the CUFI African-American Outreach program has conducted a Pastors Luncheon for area pastors and leaders. Senior pastors and ministry leaders who attended the meeting learned about the unique and unprecedented relationship between Israel and the African-American community. Several pastors expressed their fond appreciation for the enlightened presentation that was made. There were several key relationships that were strengthened with senior local pastors that were highly regarded as key players in the Portland area. Israel Pledge Cards were signed by those in attendance and an offering was received and many made the commitment to attend the 2012 D.C. Summit on July February 16, 2012 Pastors and Ministry Leaders Luncheon Meeting in Douglasville, GA Senior Pastors from over 25 churches gathered for the Georgia CUFI Israel Tour Reunion Dinner at The Church at Chapel Hill in Douglasville, GA. Former student body president at the University of Detroit and CUFI on Campus Field Organizer, David Walker, shared the strategies of Christians United For Israel planting numerous campus chapters throughout the state of Georgia. Eastern Regional Coordinator, Pastor and Author Victor Styrsky also spoke on how CUFI will be bringing the Biblical message of standing with Israel to their congregations and the other leaders within the cities they represent. It was very exciting to see these pastors realize the importance of educating on the Biblical mandate to stand and pray for Israel and the Jewish people. February 16, 2012 Pastors and Ministry Leaders Luncheon Meeting in Snellville, GA Senior Pastors from nine different churches came together at Evangel Community Church in Snellville, GA for a CUFI Pastors Luncheon and Middle East Briefing. Pastor Victor Styrsky presented a message, Its 1938 Again - and We Must Not Be Silent. These regional pastors are now working to bring members of their congregations to the 7th Annual CUFI Washington, D.C. Summit July and join in the CUFI Georgia Israel Trip in The attendees were delighted to join CUFI in support of Israel and the Jewish people. February 16, 2012 in Snellville, GA Thanks to our CUFI Georgia Pastor s Israel Trip, a Bible study of approximately 50 people from several churches in the Snellville, GA and surrounding communities opened their doors on February 16, to a CUFI Standing With Israel presentation focusing on the necessity of making our voices heard in Washington, D.C. this July Many of the attendees stayed after the event for further discussion regarding the vision of CUFI and how they could become more active in our work. February 16, 2012 in Amarillo, TX A standing with Israel event was hosted at the Amarillo home of long-time CUFI member, Mike Isley. Fifty people from the Amarillo area gathered in his beautiful home to hear John Somerville speak about the critical times for both Israel and the United States. This is why God has raised up this movement at this time in history. It is high time for the church to wake up, realize, find its voice and take action in being a blessing and supporting Israel. Not only is it a Godly injunction to do it, but it is even in our nation s own best interest. I m waking up finally! said one of the attendees as they left the event. Mike Isley observed, I don t have to feel like the Lone Ranger anymore in Amarillo. This turnout in my hometown is confirmation that God must fulfill His Word and bring a blessing on our community. This is only the start of something big. February 19, 2012 in Zebulon, GA The Sunday morning crowd at Pike County Assembly in Zebulon, GA gathered from as far away as Tallahassee, FL to hear the Biblical message of Standing With Israel from CUFI Eastern Regional Coordinator, Pastor and Author Victor Styrsky. Senior Pastor Tommy White s sent later in the afternoon sums up the Sunday morning sermon: Victor, Thank you so much for coming to Pike Assembly this morning. I am sitting in my office waiting to start a meeting this afternoon and can t help but rejoice over the favor of God. Your message has started a buzz of interest in reaching out to the Nation of Israel. You did such a great job in painting the picture of Israel in living color. This is the first time we have done anything quite like this, and I have a number of commitments to take the July trip to the 2012 CUFI Washington Summit and make our voices heard by our government to do what is right for Israel. February 19, 2012 in Davis, CA People from across northern California filled the sanctuary of Congregation Bet Haverim in Davis, CA for CUFI s first Standing With Israel event at the University City. CUFI Western Regional Coordinator, Randy Neal, presented CUFI s goals, objectives and motives to the mostly Jewish audience, and was overwhelmed by the support and positive response that we received. February 19, 2012 CUFI on Campus Event with Irving Roth in Lenoir, NC On a snowy evening in Lenoir, NC about 200 parishioners from the Whitnel Pentecostal Holiness Church gathered to hear Holocaust Survivor Irving Roth and CUFI on Campus Eastern Regional Organizer David Walker share about the work of CUFI. From two different perspectives both speakers shared insight on how critical the work that CUFI and CUFI on Campus is doing across the nation. Those in attendance were greatly inspired by both speakers. Concluding the evening s presentation, the Pastor took up an offering to assist CUFI on Campus in its efforts with building more chapters across the nation. February 20, 2012 CUFI on Campus Event with Irving Roth in Montreat College in Montreat, NC For many people in the mountains of North Carolina, hearing Irving Roth was a dream come true. After many attempts to stir up support for CUFI in the Mountains of Montreat to no avail, Monday night proved that the tide has turned. Approximately 150 people from the Montreat and Black Mountain community came out to hear Holocaust Survivor Irving Roth and CUFI on Campus East Coast Organizer David Walker. The crowd was totally engaged throughout the entire event. Many left the event informed not only regarding the events of the Holocaust but also on the growing anti-semitism and threat looming from the Middle East and, the work that CUFI is doing to bring Christians of all denominations together to support Israel. Special thanks to CUFI Congregational Representatives Jennie Barrett and Sharron Lewis for organizing this event. February 20, 2012 Event at Cleveland Community College in Shelby, NC Holocaust Survivor Irving Roth and CUFI on Campus Eastern Regional Organizer David Walker spoke to a crowd of 400 people at Cleveland Community College in Shelby, NC. The Humanitarian Department sponsored the event that also featured singing from the Word of Faith Youth choir and art pieces from the church s Holocaust Museum. continued

4 Overview of CUFI s February Events The Humanitarian Department was even gracious enough to present Mr. Irving Roth with a painting that renders the cover of his biography. At the conclusion of the event students walked away with a new awareness of the events of the Holocaust, the political unrest in the Middle East, and the work that CUFI on Campus is doing across the nation. It truly was great CUFI on Campus event! February 20, 2012 in New York, NY The Standing with Israel Event in New York, NY was a great success. Pastor Torres and his wife encouraged the young Elim Pentecostal Church to celebrate the opportunity to stand with and support Israel. This was their first official CUFI event. Approximately 75 people including several visiting pastors and ministry leaders attended the meeting to learn about the unique and unprecedented relationship between Christians and the Jewish community. Several key relationships were established among the leaders and commitments were made to host follow up events in the New York area. The attendees signed the Israel Pledge Cards. An offering for CUFI was received to help support our work. Many made the commitment to attend the 2012 Washington, D.C. Summit July February 21, 2012 Event at University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC On the campus of the University of South Carolina, students, faculty, staff and, several members from the Jewish Federation of South Carolina gathered for a CUFI on Campus event. Holocaust Survivor Irving Roth and CUFI on Campus Eastern Field Organizer David Walker both spoke to the audience. David s presentation was on the National efforts of CUFI and CUFI on Campus citing the critical importance of securing support for Israel through the next generation. Irving Roth followed by giving his inspirational testimony of how he survived the Holocaust. Following Irving s speech, 30 minutes were was allowed for questions & discussions. There were approximately 85 very enthusiastic people in attendance for this event. February 22, 2012 CUFI Español in Los Angeles, CA Over 50 energetic Hispanic Israel supporters attended the Standing with Israel event hosted by Iglesia el Eden in Los Angeles. The event was organized by Eliseo Ruedas and had great music and dancing. Pastor Jose Aquino, California s Hispanic State Director, was the keynote speaker and spoke to the crowd the importance of blessing and supporting The Jewish State. February 24, 2012 CUFI Español in San Francisco, CA On February 24th, 40 very enthusiastic Hispanic Theology students were hungry to learn about CUFI at the Standing with Israel event hosted by Kingsway Christian Center in San Francisco, CA. The guest speaker was Pastor Jessie Gutierrez, CUFI Washington Hispanic State Director, who traveled from Seattle to support this event. Pastor Carlos Ortiz, CUFI National Hispanic Coordinator, was the keynote speaker and spoke on the importance of the Biblical mandate to stand with Israel and the importance of attending the Washington, D.C. Summit this July February 25, 2012 in Valley View, OH CUFI Central Regional Coordinator spoke to more than 125 enthusiastic attendees at the Valley View campus of the Church on the North Coast in northern Ohio. The group was very interested in all the latest news about Israel and the increasing nuclear threats coming from Iran. Tim Callahan said, This was a very illuminating view of the situation and it has helped me understand not only the geo-political ramifications, but also the Biblical truths that override the present facts. Thanks, CUFI for opening our understanding to a higher level. February 25, 2012 CUFI Español Pastors Luncheon Meeting in San Francisco, CA Saturday, February 25th, was a historic day for San Francisco. Over 40 Pastors from all over San Francisco Bay Area attended the first CUFI Español Pastors lunch in San Francisco organized by Pastor Victor Bianco, CUFI Hispanic City Director. Mr. Gideon Lustig, Deputy Consul General of Israel for the Pacific Northwest Region was the guest speaker for this event. He told the energetic crowd We need the Hispanic Christian support more than ever. CUFI National Hispanic Coordinator, Pastor Carlos Ortiz, was the keynote speaker and encouraged the Pastors to unite for Israel and stated the moment to have mercy of Zion is now. The attendees were encouraged to attend the Washington, D.C. Summit this July and the importance of showing our elected representatives how important it is to support Israel now more than ever before. in Augusta, GA On Sunday, February 26, The Sanctuary Church in Augusta, GA turned over both of their Sunday morning services to CUFI Eastern Regional Coordinator Pastor Victor Styrsky. There were over 800 enthusiastic people in attendance for the two services with many of them becoming members of Christians United For Israel for the first time. A very generous offering was received to help with the work of CUFI on Campus in Georgia. Many of those in attendance are now planning on attending the CUFI Washington, D.C. Summit this July One of the participants said of the event, I have stood with Israel for years as a Pastor in Front Royal, VA. I was thrilled to see my Pastor and Church in Evans, GA holding this standing with Israel Event. Ron from Evans, GA. in Columbiana, OH Father Miller of Christ the King Anglican Church in Columbiana, Ohio welcomed 25 parishioners to a Sunday brunch. The topic of the meeting was the Holocaust Heroes who risked all while saving Jews from certain death. Their stories highlighted the fact that these heroes were only common people who immediately rose to the occasion, without hesitating or counting the cost. They were favorably compared with the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11. CUFI Español in San Francisco, CA Over 50 passionate Hispanic Israel supporters attended the Standing with Israel event hosted by Iglesia Fuente de Vida in San Francisco Bay Area, one of the oldest churches in San Francisco. The event had great music and Pastor Jessie Gutierrez, CUFI Washington State Director was the guest speaker. CUFI National Hispanic Coordinator, Pastor Carlos Ortiz, emphasized in the importance of solidarity with the Jewish community in these difficult times. CUFI Español in Youngstown, OH Reverend Juan Rivera of The New Life Church in Poland, Ohio greeted the 200 congregants on Sunday evening who had assembled for the first CUFI Stand With Israel meeting at their beautiful sanctuary. The guests were treated to an in-depth briefing on the current situation covering the entire Middle East and in particular the increasing existential threat to Israel. The good and great news is that God s Word stands and He will not forget His People or His Land. He will protect and defend His Inheritance. The attendees were enlightened on the great importance of standing with Israel in this critical time in history. Christians United for Israel in Augusta, GA Multiple CUFI events took place within the city of Augusta, GA on February 26th and 27th. The city may never be the same in its relationship to Standing with Israel! Three separate gatherings took place sponsored by LifePoint Church and The Sanctuary Church. New CUFI City Director,

5 Overview of CUFI s February Events Pastor Bryan Cockrell opened up The Sanctuary to both local members and congregants from all over Georgia. People also drove in from South Carolina to take part in the CUFI Standing With Israel events and learn more about the Biblical mandate of supporting the nation of Israel. The Sanctuary Church live streams all of their services and the final Monday night, Standing With Israel event brought in over three times the number of viewers from the largest audience they have ever recorded. (The previous largest viewership was the Sunday morning CUFI Standing With Israel service!) A special emphasis was placed on the crucial work of CUFI on Campus and a generous offering was made to Christians United For Israel toward supporting our college campus work. The weekend apparently lit a fire in the hearts of the many students in attendance as Facebook posts exploded with excitement concerning available CUFI on Campus scholarships to be part of the upcoming 2012 CUFI Washington Summit. February 27, 2012 Pastors and Ministry Leaders Luncheon Meeting in Augusta, GA CUFI hosted a Pastors Luncheon and Middle East Briefing in beautiful Augusta, GA with over 25 pastors from local churches in attendance. CUFI Eastern Regional Coordinator Pastor Victor Styrsky presented the Biblical mandate for standing with Israel, including an emphasis on the work of CUFI on Campus. Many of those in attendance showed strong interest in attending the Washington, D.C. Summit this July 16 18, as well as bringing CUFI to their congregations. February 27, 2012 in Augusta, GA The Sanctuary Church in Augusta, GA held a Standing With Israel event to an enthusiastic crowd. The event was open to churches all throughout the city and surrounding communities. Approximately 200 people came from as far away as South Carolina to show their solidarity for Israel and learn more about how to put action to their faith in keeping our nation standing with Israel. The live streaming of the event brought in three times the number of viewers of any other event they have ever held. February 27, 2012 in Oklahoma City, OK Mr. Charlie Meadows, President of the Oklahoma City Conservative Action Committee, was among the over 150 people who assembled for lunch and their first SWI meeting. Roberta Roberts, a long time CUFI member remarked, Although this was a politically oriented group, I was so amazed and pleased at how positively they all responded to the Biblical implications and the importance of our nation standing strong with Israel. February 29, 2012 African American Pastor & Ministry Leaders Luncheon in Los Angeles, CA On an unusually cold afternoon in the greater Los Angeles area, two very significant pro-israel events were held by CUFI. On February 29th, the Pastors and Leaders Luncheon was conducted for a group of key church and ministry leaders. Luncheon attendees heard about the importance of Christians understanding the biblical mandate to pray and stand with Israel and the Jewish community. Participants also realized the unique commonality and parallel between Israel and the African-American community and why it was essential that the two communities stand together in solidarity for success. Ministry leaders expressed an overwhelming appreciation for the connection made when hearing the personal and passionate testimony of the African-American Outreach Coordinator, Pastor Michael A. Stevens and his love for Israel and the Jewish people. Pledge Cards were signed, an offering was received and many made the commitment to attend the 2012 D.C. Summit. The second event of the day was a Jewish Leaders reception and briefing held at the Young Israel Of Century City where Rabbi Elazar Muskin is the spiritual leader. Several Rabbis and Christian Pastors came together to be informed of a historic Night To Honor Israel celebration event being planned for the southern California area. Conversation among the leaders included the ongoing promotion of respect and understanding between Christians and Jews with emphasis that the beliefs they hold in common are far greater than the differences they have allowed separating them. Attendees included guests from the Consulate General s office of greater Los Angeles. There are a limited number of Student Summit Scholarships available for full-time college students between the ages of 18 and 26. These scholarships will cover the cost of registration, lodging at a CUFI hotel and reimbursement for travel (up to $300). All students must complete an online application form to be accepted. To apply, please visit The deadline for scholarship applications is May 31, 2012.

6 Christians, pastors show support for Israel From the Ledger-Enquirer 7th Annual Washington Summit July 16-18, 2012 Pastor Jay Bailey of Solid Rock Church in Columbus is concerned about Israel and the Jewish people. We are living in a very urgent time, he said this week. Antisemitism is growing everywhere, especially on college campuses. We saw growth in the 30s and 40s. It culminated in the Holocaust and six million Jews died. Of Israel, he said, It has a population of about eight million and is surrounded by 600 million Arabs, many of whom, are hostile toward Israel. He called it a tense situation. Bailey has made three visits to Israel, his latest was in December on a trip organized by Christians United for Israel, the largest pro- Israel organization in the United States. The mission of the organization, founded by John Hagee, is providing a national association through which every pro-israel church, parachurch organization, ministry or individual in America can speak and act with one voice in support of Israel. Bailey said in six years the organization has grown to about a million members. The growth, he said, is almost supernatural. Bailey, 48, a native of Jamaica and graduate of the University of Georgia, is in his ninth year at Solid Rock and his third year as director for Christians United for Israel in Georgia. On his latest trip, Bailey and 34 Georgia pastors visited religious and historic sites, studied scripture with a rabbi in Jerusalem and delivered more than 20,000 letters of support to Israeli soldiers guarding the country s northern border. Many of the pastors had never been to Israel before, but each one of us was reminded of the importance of standing with Israel and the Jewish people, Bailey said. The pastors, he said, needed to experience Israel and its people personally. Israelis live under constant threats and daily pressures and we must do all that we can, with all the strength that we have, and for as long as it takes, to support Israel and her people, Bailey said Dennis Lacy, pastor at North Highland Church in Columbus, was among the pastors on the trip. It was his sixth visit to what he calls a magical place, the land of the Bible. This trip, though, was different. It was not the typical tour where you just see the sights, Lacy said. We got to interface with soldiers and go into Israeli homes including that of a renowned rabbi. We met with Palestinians too. It was really a behind the scenes look. Bailey said as a Christian he feels morally bound to support Israel. All of us have a deep, deep love and appreciation for Israel and the Jewish people, Bailey said. My love is motivated by an understanding of God s covenant with the Jewish people. I have a keen sense of the biblical mandate to bless the nation of Israel. In the Bible, it says those who bless Israel will be blessed. God loves Israel and I should love it as well. My love of Israel is a way of honoring God. Lacy mentioned the same covenant when explaining his support. While it might seem strange to some for Christians to embrace a Jewish State, Bailey said there are many sites in Israel special to the hearts of Christians. He added, The Jewish people are very responsive to the faiths of others. Bailey disputed the idea that some support for Israel might come because of fear of Muslims taking control. Bailey said, That is not true at all. Lacy remarked, I have always been pro-israel. That does not mean I am anti-arab or anti-palestinian. He said his church supports many Arab missions. Bailey said politically Israel is important to the United States. One reason is Israel purchases much of its military wares from this country. The other is that Israel is the bastion of democracy in the middle east. Each year, a summit is held in Washington where Christians United for Israel supporters go to talk to members of Congress. We have found a lot of support on both sides of the aisle, Bailey said. The reaction Bailey received from other religious leaders on his latest Israeli adventure was that it was overwhelming and they were emotionally, intellectually and spiritually challenged and touched by the experience. We re going back to Washington, D.C. July 16 through July 18, 2012 for CUFI s 7th Annual Washington Summit and we need you to come with us! This is a political season, but Israel s getting left out of the debate. We can t allow this to happen. If support for Israel isn t stressed in the campaign; it will not be a priority after the election. Our elected officials need to hear that the American people want them to stand with Israel now more than ever. We must remind our elected officials that Israel is a bastion of freedom and democracy in a despotic Middle East. We must stress that Israel is our first line of defense against enemies devoted to attacking America and killing Americans. When Israel battles Hezbollah and Hamas, its battling Iranian-backed terrorist groups which have American blood on their hands. When Israel sounds the alarm about Iran, it s focusing our attention on the greatest strategic threat to America and the West. If we want our elected officials to honor the U.S.-Israel relationship, then we need to put it back on their radar! If we don t speak out, Israel will be overlooked in this busy political season. We will miss an important opportunity to impact our next president. The time to speak out for Israel is now! Your children can now experience the CUFI Washington Summit! Participate in exciting games, interactive teachings and activities that will teach them how to love and bless Israel! For families, the CUFI Washington Summit is truly a vacation with a purpose! The entire 2-day Camp CUFI is centered around teaching the future generation how to love and bless Israel. Camp CUFI is a children s educational experience held during the CUFI Washington D.C. Summit July 16-18, 2012 for all children ages During morning, afternoon and evening sessions, children will participate in hands on learning including games, crafts, dances, puppets, and interactive teachings. Visit for more information.

7 Registration Join thousands of other Christians in Washington, D.C., July 16-18, 2012 as we stand united in support of Israel. We have no doubt that CUFI was created for such a time as this. We have no doubt that together we can take a stand for Israel that will make a difference for years to come. Registration Fees Per Registrant: Member Non-Member Now - April 30th, 2012 $ $ May 1, July 2, 2012 $ $ After July 2, 2012/At the door $ $ Name 1: $ Name 2: $ Name 3: $ Name 4: $ Physical Address: No P.O. Boxes. Physical Address is needed to make Congressional Appointments City: State: 9 Digit Zip: Cell Phone: Do you want to receive text notifications? Yes No This will help us notify you of changes while in Washington, D.C. Standard text messaging rates apply Daytime Phone: Billing Address: If different from physical address. City: State: 9 Digit Zip: Camp CUFI Registration Fees Per Registrant: $175 Non-Member/$158 Member Now July 2 Yes, my child/children will be attending Camp CUFI Note: Full registration is required for each child. Please make copies if necessary. Child s Name: Age: Child s Name: Age: Child s Name: Age: Parent s Name: Parent s Cell: Bring your CUFI Membership card to the Summit and receive special member discounts! Registration for 2012 Summit $ per Member X = $ $ per Non-Member X = $ Scan this QR code with your quickcode reader to register online today! Card Type: Credit Card No.: Print all digits. Expiration Date / Verification Code: Print Name: As it appears on card I,, Signature Required authorize Christians United for Israel to charge my credit card for the Washington/Israel Summit registration. If paying by check, make checks payable to: Christians United for Israel P.O. Box 1307, San Antonio, TX For more information call (877) cancellation policy: A Cancellation notice by fax, , or letter is required if cancelling a registration. Due to contractual agreements (guaranteed payment) refunds will be issued with a $35 processing fee per registrant and will not be issued after June 15, IMPORTANT NOTE: limited space available. This form does not book travel or hotel rooms.

8 Christians United For Israel P.O. Box 1307 San Antonio, TX Love is not what you say, love is what you do. Pastor John Hagee HELP SUPPORT CUFI Receive a beautiful Defend America Vote Israel Lapel Pin with your gift of $20 or more. For an additional $5 gift, you can become a Torchbearer member of CUFI. Complete this form or go online at CUFI Annual Membership Torchbearer...q $2.09 Monthly q $25.00 Annually Watchman... q $4.17 Monthly q $50.00 Annually Star Of David... q $12.50 Monthly q $ Annually Lion Of Judah... q $30.42 Monthly q $ Annually Chairman Club... q $83.33 Monthly q $1,000 Annually Solomon s Circle... q $ Monthly q $5,000 Annually Ambassador Club... q $2, Monthly q $25,000 Annually Membership benefits will be mailed out upon fulfillment of your annual membership dues. Mail this form to: CUFI - P.O. Box 1307 San Antonio, TX You can donate online at: You can donate over the phone at: q Enclosed is my ONE TIME GIFT of $ to Christians United for Israel. Receive a beautiful Defend America Vote Israel Pin with your gift of $20 or more. For an additional $5 gift, you can become a Torchbearer member of CUFI. q Mr. q Mrs. q Ms. q Pastor Name Address City State Zip q Check or money order enclosed. Please make checks payable to CUFI q Please place a gift of $ on my credit card q Automatically deduct $ amount from my credit card q Monthly q One time Account # Exp. Date / Sec. # Print Name Signature