Christians stand in solidarity with Israel on Oct 7

While Israel held solemn ceremonies to mark the passing of a year since the Oct. 7 massacre, many Christians around the world held vigils, times of prayer, and ceremonies in solidarity with the Jewish state. 

On behalf of the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), President and CEO Troy Miller issued a statement of remembrance, condolence and support. 

“Today, we remember the lives that were tragically cut short by Hamas’ acts of terrorism and brutality against innocent Israeli men, women, and children on October 7, 2023. In the days following the October 7 massacre, Christian broadcasters and NRB members reported the situation in Israel to the world out of journalistic responsibility and as an expression of Evangelical Christians’ commitment to standing with Israel," Miller said.

"The 141 million Americans who watch or listen to Christian broadcasting every month have been informed by their efforts. Since that time, Christian communicators have passionately made the case for continued Evangelical Christian support for Israel.”

He continued: “This afternoon, I will join a historic gathering of Christians, Jews, and leaders standing in solidarity with Israel on the National Mall in remembrance of the victims of Hamas’ terror on October 7. As we remember the lives taken on October 7 and the plight of every hostage still being held by Hamas, we will march to the White House as a powerful show of awareness and unity by all those who love Israel. NRB is honored to be part of the American Christian Leaders for Israel (ACLI) coalition of Evangelical Christians who support the nation of Israel and the Jewish people. 

Representing over 1,100 different NRB member broadcasters, Miller encouraged Israelis and Jewish people worldwide that they are not alone and that many Christians joined their pain and sorrow.

“Evangelical Christians and NRB members are united in prayer for God’s protection on the people of Israel, the return of all hostages, the unconditional surrender of Hamas, and a future of peace, prosperity, and hope in the Middle East.”

A large coalition of Christian organizations also joined together to stand with Israel, holding events and praying particularly during the anniversary of Oct. 7.

They called on all Christians to “observe Monday 7 October a day of fasting and prayer for the return of all hostages and all evacuees to their homes, for the defeat of terrorism and renewal of peace in the region, and for God’s light and truth to be seen over the Jewish people worldwide.”  

New versions of Israeli songs were arranged to commemorate the date, with Christian Lebanese singer Carine Bassili releasing “October Rain” in Arabic, the first song in Arabic dedicated to the Jewish people.

In South Africa, a country described by Israel as “serving as the legal arm of the Hamas terrorist organization,” children sang a translated version of the Israeli song, “One day”, praying for a new day of hope and peace.