Christian leaders journey to ancient Shiloh, pledging unwavering advocacy for Israel against rising global hostility.
More than 1,000 American Christian leaders and influencers arrived in Israel last week for what organizers described as the largest public-diplomacy mission in Israel’s history—a bold show of solidarity at a time when Israel confronts Islamist aggression and relentless international campaigns to delegitimize its existence.
Their flagship stop was the ancient city of Shiloh, where the Tabernacle once stood and where Jewish spiritual identity took shape long before any Palestinian political narrative existed. Coming in dozens of buses under the banner of Dr. Mike Evans and the Friends of Zion organization—together with Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Binyamin Regional Council—the participants gathered to pray for Israel, bless the nation, and stand firmly beside it.
Pastors described the experience as deeply moving, calling Shiloh “holy ground,” “beautiful,” and “filled with living history.” One participant, representing the thousands who came in unity, said the gathering brought together “a thousand pastors from across America” with “a heart of love for Israel.” Another expressed gratitude for the opportunity to show support firsthand, declaring: “We stand with Israel. We love you. Your hospitality has been incredible.”
For many, this was their first time in Shiloh—even among those who had visited Israel repeatedly. One pastor who has traveled to Israel nearly a dozen times said seeing a new part of the land strengthened his ability to “defend Israel” more forcefully back home, particularly against the flood of misinformation spread by anti-Israel activists and pro-Hamas sympathizers.
Others described the visit as “life-changing,” noting the peace-loving spirit of the Israeli people in contrast to the violence and hatred promoted by Hamas and its regional backers. Several emphasized that their mission now is to return home as strengthened advocates—to counter false narratives, challenge anti-Israel hostility in American communities, and ensure the truth is heard.
Some first-time visitors spoke emotionally about encountering the warmth of Israelis, describing them as “loving, kind, and full of faith.” Standing on biblical soil, one participant proclaimed: “Hashem has blessed Israel,” offering prayers for continued peace and prosperity.
Many pledged that this journey marked not the end of their support but the beginning of louder, more committed advocacy. “Our hearts are for this land and this people,” one pastor said. Participants vowed they “will not be silent,” promising to take their firsthand experiences back to their congregations and reaffirm America’s moral duty to keep Israel safe, strong, and secure.
