10th Annual Israel Solidarity Event
May 6, 2011 - On Friday, May 6th the Embassy of Israel hosted their 10th Annual Israel Solidarity Event that honored Christian leaders from throughout the US for their continued and steadfast support of Israel. The IIACF served for the third consecutive year as part of the Host Committee along with fourteen other distinguished Christian leaders. Willem Griffioen introduced the Host Committee to the 150 attendees.
The crowd was honored to be addressed by Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren who spoke on the many obstacles and trials that Israel would face in the coming months. From the new Turkish flotilla headed for Gaza to the crumbling peace process and Palestinian attempts to unilaterally declare independence via the UN this September, Ambassador Oren painted an earnest and realistic picture of the coming year. He then reiterated the grave importance of the Christian leaders’ involvement at this crucial time. His remarks were followed with an address by Dr. Mark Rutland, president of Oral Roberts University, and Rev. William Sutter, Executive Director of Friends of Israel. Following the morning program, the afternoon events included a panel discussion on the delegitimization of Israel.
The attendees not only enjoyed a day of insightful speeches and discussions, but a unique time of fellowship. The Christian leaders expressed and showed an unwavering spirit of support for Israel – support that will be vital in the months to come.