ENHANCE - 2nd Quarter 2024

2 nd Quarter 2024 • No 219
Christian Friends of Israel
United Kingdom
“You who are the hope of
Israel, its Saviour in times
of distress” Jeremiah 14:8
INSIDE: EDITORIAL – Preserved for a purpose • Spring Harvest Report • HEBREW WORD FOCUS – The Guardian of Israel • HMD24
Prayer Conference Report • Out & About • Hidden Treasures - Curaçao • Seven Churches Tour • Events • RESOURCES

Editorial
Christian Friends of Israel
United Kingdom
Preserved for
a purpose
About us
CFI UK seeks to bless Israel through
practical and moral support, and serve
the Church in teaching about God’s
purposes for Israel and the Hebrew
heritage of our faith.
CFI UK also produce a monthly prayer
letter and a weekly Middle East report.
Please contact us for full details of
projects in Israel and the teaching
resources available.
As an educational charity, we carry a
variety of resources relevant to our
purpose. We do not necessarily endorse
every view expressed by our guest
writers or authors.
Encouraging understanding in the
Church of Israel in context of the
Bible, history and today.
Challenging prejudice against Israel
and antisemitism alongside the Jewish
community in the UK.
Assisting cross-culturally in Israel
with charitable projects - medical,
educational and social.
What’s in a name?
ENHANCE means to increase, or further
improve the quality, value, or extent
of, in our instance, Christian friendship
of Israel. It also emphasises that when
God’s faithfulness to Israel is included and
understood by the wider Church, it truly is
‘faith enhancing.’
ENHANCE Magazine
Published by:
CFI Charitable Trust, PO Box 2687
Eastbourne BN22 7LZ
Tel: 01323 410 810
Email: info@cfi.org.uk
www.cfi.org.uk
Registered Charity, No. 1101899
Registered Office c/o
Caladine, Chantry House, 22 Upperton Road
Eastbourne, BN21 1BF
Company No: 04984515
VAT Registration No: GB678780275
Front cover photo:
David’s Tower, Jerusalem.
Adobe Stock
2 ENHANCE • 2 nd Quarter 2024
Jacob Vince
As the Bible story
unfolds, we discover
that the tribe of Judah
was chosen by God to bring
his future king and Messiah to
earth. Alongside the tribe of
Judah is the tribe of Benjamin,
the second son of Rachel.
It is worth noting, then, the
contribution and parallel progress
of the tribe of Benjamin as the
narrative unfolds through the
three-part order Jesus used of Law,
Prophets, and Psalms (see Luke
24:44), followed by the fourth part,
the Apostles’ teaching, to which the
early church devoted themselves,
alongside fellowship, prayer and
breaking bread (see Acts 2:42).
In the Law we see Benjamin born
at the loss of his mother Rachel
at Ephrathah, when approaching
Bethlehem in Judea. During the
famine, on the brothers’ second
visit to Egypt, when Joseph wants
to hold on to his younger brother
Benjamin, Judah steps in and
is prepared to offer his life in
Benjamin’s place, already showing
traits of leadership and selfsacrifice.
He had earlier taken the
lead in persuading his father Jacob
of the need to go to Egypt.
In the Prophets, the book of
Judges ends with the tragic story
of the near wipeout of the tribe of
Benjamin. Thankfully, they were
preserved. Using the Jewish order
of the Scriptures, the Book of Judges
is followed by the book of the judge
and prophet Samuel. As the story
continues, we see another tragic
incident when Eli learns that his
sons were killed and the ark taken,
upon which he falls backwards
off his chair and dies. Here we
can note, perhaps with surprise,
it is a Benjamite who has the role
of bringing the sad message and
witnessing its outcome.
We continue through the book of
Samuel, who eventually appoints
Saul as king, from the tribe of
Benjamin, as God’s response to the
people’s cry. On learning of his
choosing, Saul answers, “But am I
not a Benjamite, from the smallest tribe
of Israel, and is not my clan the least of
all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin?”
(1 Samuel 9:21). Indeed, to begin
with Saul makes good progress in
defeating the enemy, ably assisted
by his son Jonathan who has great
valour and courage. Yet, as the
story unfolds, we see Jonathan,
who would have been expected to
follow in the kingly line, prepared
to decrease so that his friend and
companion David, from the tribe
of Judah, can increase. This in
some ways prefigures John, son of
Zechariah the priest from the tribe
of Levi, who with a mother from the
daughters of Aaron could have been
High Priest, yet he defers to Jesus,
like Jonathan to David.
Having just completed the season
of Purim, as we move into the
third part of the Bible, the Psalms,
we find the book of Esther. Here
we note Esther’s uncle Mordechai
is a Benjamite Jew, which would
suggest that his niece Esther herself
might also be a Benjamite Jew.
Mordechai and Esther are used by
God to rescue the Jews across the
127 provinces of the Persian Empire.
There are links to the story of Saul,
where he does not fully defeat
king Agag, and his descendant,
Mordechai’s enemy Haman an
Agagite, is eventually defeated.
How important, then, that the tribe
of Benjamin had been preserved for
this purpose. But there is more.
As we arrive at the Apostles’
teaching, the fourth part of the
Bible we use, there is one further
prominent Benjamite, the apostle
Paul, who is chosen by Jesus to
spread the gospel to the Gentiles.
How interesting that he sees himself
as the least of the apostles, not

Event Report
Spring Harvest 2024
Despite it being Bank holiday
Monday and April Fools’ Day
it was a swift car journey from
Eastbourne, so that Jacob, Steve and
Robin were in good time to set up the
CFI UK Resources Stall.
At this first festival of the year for Christian
Friends of Israel UK, on display in the
Butlin’s Skyline venue, our stall had a very
wide selection of resources to inspire all
those attending this year at Spring Harvest,
Skegness. The bracing wind forced away
early clouds and the sunshine broke through
to greet the thousands of visitors from
around the UK. The first evening was quiet
but still some gave positive feedback and
new enquirers asked, as expected, questions
about the situation in Gaza.
Out of a fresh new morning all the activities
sprang into action with big crowds flowing
into the Skyline mid-morning. There
was great interest in the Rose Publishing
pamphlets and the books that explain the
biblical, historical and ongoing importance
of Israel to the Church. Conversations and
discussion especially on current affairs
were lively, but friendly.
Wednesday was a slightly slower day,
perhaps the sunshine drew people to the
beach or water world. Even so there were
some good discussions and resources were
provided to those enquiring.
The weather became damp, but spirits
were high as Thursday launched into
action. Everyone kept smiling and praising
the Lord and our team of three were again
ready to answer any questions and make
connections. The crowds soon emerged
from the seminars and some paid us a
visit again discussing the current conflict
and how to discover more about our
Hebrew heritage. Our books, booklets and
pamphlets helped to meet the needs of
new-enquirers. It was also encouraging to
see many supporters and we are grateful
for their prayers.
In this final day we had lots of support and
encouragement, so thanks to all those who
paid us a visit during these challenging
times.
The days were long, but the exhibition
was eminently worthwhile. We moved
on to Spring Harvest Minehead the week
following, then pick up our next exhibition
at the end of May. These engagements
with the wider Church are so important
as we seek to encourage understanding
of Israel in context – biblically, historically
and today.
unlike King Saul from the least of
the tribes. In similar manner that
God chose Saul, “Do you see the man
God the Lord has chosen” (Samuel
10:24), Jesus chooses Paul, “The
Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man
is my chosen instrument to proclaim
my name to the Gentiles and their
kings and to the people of Israel” (Acts
9:15). Sadly, Saul the Benjamite,
who began so well, ended badly. In
contrast, his namesake Paul started
badly but ended well.
Reflecting on the wider purpose
for the preservation of the tribe of
Benjamin, we see how important
it was for the tribe of Benjamin to
survive, both for purpose of saving
the Jews in exile during the time of
Esther and later enabling the gospel
to reach the Gentiles during the
time of Paul.
2 nd Quarter 2024 • ENHANCE 3

HEBREW WORD FOCUS
Melissa Briggs MA
Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Melissa is an experienced Hebrew
teacher with a desire to make the
rich language of the Scriptures
accessible to Christians.
Visit: www.explorehebrew.co.uk
The Guardian
of Israel
‏ְׁשֹוֵמֵ‏ ר
Shomer
Where was God on the 7 th October
2023? Why would God allow so much
bloodshed? Why does he sometimes
permit evil to befall the innocent?
I have wrestled with these questions through tears.
My heart is heavy as I grieve with my friends in Israel
and pray for the Lord to have mercy and bring healing.
A special, comforting title for God, “Shomer Yisrael” is
found in the Psalms,
He will not let your foot slip—
He who watches (shamar) over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who is the Guardian (Shomer) of Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches (shamar) over you ….
The Lord will keep you from all harm—
He will watch over your life;
the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore. (Psalm 121:3-8)
Shamar is the Hebrew verb meaning to “keep, watch,
preserve or guard”. The active participle form of this
verb is shomer, meaning “one who keeps or watches
over, a watchman, a guardian”.
“Shomer” is also the term used today
for a security guard who protects the
entrance to a village, or those checking
bags outside Israeli shops and
restaurants. And a person who ‘keeps’
the sabbath or ‘keeps’ kosher – he is
labelled “shomer shabbat” or “shomer kashrut”.
Some of the other words from the same family of
words, all sharing the same root letters, include:
ִ ‏ְׁשׁ‏ ‏ָמָ‏ ר
(noun) shmira - security/guarding/preserving ‏-ְׁשׁ‏ ‏ִמִ‏ י רָ‏ ה
‏ִנִ‏ ‏ְׁשׁ‏ ‏ַמַ‏ ר
(noun) - mishmar - a guard/watch ‏ִמ
(verb) shimmer - he preserved ‏-ִׁשֵּׁמּ‏ ר
- nishmar - he was kept (verb)
(adjective) - shamur - guarded /kept/preserved ‏ְׁשָ‏ ‏ָמּור
If God ‘watches’ over Israel – seeing all that happens
to her – then why doesn’t he always deal with evil
quickly?
Perhaps the apostle Peter’s second letter sheds some
light onto God’s perspective of “timing”:
“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the
Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years
are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise,
as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with
you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to
repentance... You ought to live holy and godly lives as you
look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That
day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire…
But in keeping with his promise, we are looking forward to a
I have posted
watchmen on
your walls
new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.”
(2 Peter 3:8-13)
One day all wars will cease, and Jesus the Messiah will
reign in shalom as King in Jerusalem. His redemption
plan has already been set into motion. The existence of
evil does not negate the goodness of God.
We can see God’s hand of restraint, holding evil back
in both miraculous ways and through the divine order
he put into place. May we be ready and available to
do our part to stand firmly for God and his purposes
for Israel and the Nations.
The atrocities committed by Hamas are crimes against
humanity and an affront to the creator God. He will
have the final say. He will bring justice, and will
always keep his promises, “The Lord guards/keeps/
watches over (shomer) all those who love him, but he
destroys all the wicked.” (Psalm 145:20)
As advanced as we humans can proudly think we are,
our lives are actually so fragile. We are completely
dependent on the Lord for every breath and every
function of our bodies. Is God still the Shomer
(Guardian) of Israel, and of all who are grafted into
“the Commonwealth of Israel” (see
Romans 11:17 plus Ephesians 2:12)
by grace through faith in Jesus the
Messiah? Yes! The word of the Lord
stands forever. Every day God guards
us in countless ways that we are rarely
aware of and thank him for.
This side of eternity, we will never know all that the
Lord has quietly done to preserve Israel as a nation,
and to preserve the Church too. Why does the Lord
not stop all acts of terror and brutality? I do not dare
to give a simple answer. I mourn with those who
mourn and ask the Lord to comfort as only he can.
I do believe Satan intended to do much more harm on
7 th October than God allowed him to do. God’s hand
of protection was and is upon his land and people.
God is watching as a Shomer – he sees and will hold
everyone accountable for their actions. He also calls
us, as believers, to be “Guardians/Watchmen” for
Israel, “I have posted watchmen (the plural of “shomer”) on
your walls, Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night.
You who call on the Lord, give yourselves no rest, and give
him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem and makes her the
praise of the earth.” (Isaiah 62:6-7)
May we heed the call of Jesus to be found vigilant,
sober, watchful, and prayerful (see Matthew 26:41).
MELISSA’S NEW LEVEL 2 VIDEO COURSE IS NOW AVAILABLE! If
you are interested in learning Biblical or Modern Hebrew, please
contact Melissa for more details at: www.explorehebrew.co.uk
4 ENHANCE • 2 nd Quarter 2024

Memorial Day
Julia Soakell
Events bring Holocaust
education across the UK
Holocaust Memorial Day
in 2024 was unique for
many reasons. Watching
or listening to the news in the
UK around that time we were
already used to a bombardment
of pictures and upsetting images
following the Hamas massacre of
7 th October.
Some will not have known such a long
and tense conflict in their lifetimes, but
one of the most concerning elements of
the Israel-Hamas war was the terrifying
increase of antisemitism throughout
the nations, like that recorded in
the rise to power of the Nazis. The
Jewish communities in the UK were
on heightened alert, with schools and
synagogues needing protection by Police.
We will remember
So, it was more pertinent and necessary
than usual for those who love and
stand with Israel and the Jewish people
to host sensitive, educational events
around Holocaust Memorial Day. For
decades the cry had been, “Never Again”
and “We will remember”, but now the
news headlines were showing “Never
Again” has happened.
Stoke Holocaust Memorial
David and Julia Soakell from CFI UK’s
Northern office were invited to speak
at the Stoke Holocaust Memorial
event, hosted by Jennifer Nevill on
25 th January 2024. It was attended
by the local mayor and a leader from
the synagogue but also people who
had travelled from as far as Wales
to commemorate the date in such a
difficult season.
The evening’s theme was ‘Helen’s
Stoke Holocaust Memorial event, with
Jennifer Nevill
Brentwood hosted Natalie and the Fiddle
Story’, a professional exhibition now
used widely for such events. Time was
taken to highlight the increasing threat
of hatred toward Israel and the Jewish
communities around the world, and the
need to stand with the families of the
hostages and those killed or maimed by
the barbaric acts of 7 th October. Prayers
were said and two minutes of silence
held.
Llandudno school visits
Another event was held in Llandudno,
hosted by Roy Thurley who was assisted
by Sharn Asbridge, a CFI UK regional link,
who together also coordinated several
Holocaust survivor visits to schools.
West Midlands service
David Walker, CFI UK regional link
in the West Midlands, led a service
where many Christian groups were
represented. David often teaches
courses on the Judeo-Christian heritage
of our faith in this region. He has good
relationships with the local rabbi and
Jewish community, who had also been
affected by a rise in tension and hatred
in the area.
Brentwood show famous Fiddle
CFI UK regional link Moira Dare Edwards
hosted a well attended HMD event in
Brentwood, Essex, where Robin Lane
assisted with a CFI UK resources stall,
allowing people to buy some of the
books we sell on the subject, thus
helping to promote understanding of
the Holocaust. Toward the end of the
evening, a young student from the
Yehudi Menuhin School played some
poignant renditions of classic tunes on
the famous Fiddle, which survived the
Concentration Camps.
Scottish Borders library event
In the borders of Scotland, Philip
Aitchison coordinated with Hawick
library the use of CFI UK exhibitions
and film footage of the camps to
help 60 students and 4 teachers,
on various visits, gain much needed
insights to the horrors of the
Holocaust. The local librarian himself
has a real heart to assist education
on the subject and is keen to extend
the work they have done over several
years now.
Saltburn, Ormesby, and Eston
Helen’s Story was exhibited in Saltburn,
Ormesby and Eston libraries over many
weeks and it was heartening to hear of
librarians keen to host the personal and
touching story, which continues as the
legacy of a survivor who lived in the
northeast until the early 2000s.
Saltburn event showing Helen’s Story
CFI online focus
Online, CFI UK commemorated the
date with a special ‘CFI Focus: Never
again has happened’ and we heard
from Olga Kopilova direct from the
CFI Jerusalem office about Holocaust
survivors, some of whom had even
been caught up with terrorists on the
morning of the massacre at their homes
in southern Israel. Those attending
were deeply moved by Olga’s testimony
and the meeting was able to pray for
those affected and for the team as
they planned to double their size. They
continue to visit these precious survivors
in their final years.
Church Links touch London
Other venues in London heard from CFI
UK church and prayer links who shared
on the work of CFI Jerusalem in Israel
and how we can support Israel in prayer
at this time.
2 nd Quarter 2024 • ENHANCE 5

Special Report
Christian Friends of Israel UK
PRAYER
CONFERENCE
Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a sceptre of
justice will be the sceptre of your kingdom. (Psalm 45:6)
Touching
the Sceptre
‘As in the days ... of Esther’
Julia Soakell
Prayer Encouragement
Conference host
David Soakell
UK Liaison Officer
Led sung worship
Within the CFI UK year,
our Residential Prayer
Conference is a regular
and much-appreciated event,
which David and I are blessed
to host each year, following
in the footsteps of some great
intercessors and role models.
Because of the horrors and
consequences of 7 th October,
this year’s event was even more
David Linnell
Chairman
Shared the priorities of
praying for Israel & CFI
Jacob Vince
Chief Executive
Spoke on the heart of
Christian friendship
I am the Lord and there is no other; apart from me
there is no God. I will strengthen you, though you
have not acknowledged me, so that from the rising
of the sun to the place of its setting people may
know there is none besides me. (Isaiah 45:5-6)
Julia introducing David Linnell who shared his
heart for CFI UK in 2024
important, for us to continue our
prayer support for Israel, Jewish
communities around the world, and
the great team in CFI Jerusalem.
We had the largest number of
attendees for many years. It was a
very special and anointed time of
prayer, fellowship and updating.
The Lord showed why he directed
our theme to be ‘As in the days ...
of Esther’. The parallels between
the message seen in the ‘Scroll of
Esther’ and today’s situation in the
Middle East were startling. We were
all blessed to search the chapters
and find hidden treasure in the
narrative. A short video showed the
supernatural element of ‘teshuvah’
– God bringing in miraculous
reversals.
There were many points at which we
were blessed as we gathered. The
70 plus supporters who came this
year represented a variety of ages
and levels of understanding. It was
lovely to hear that several who hadn’t
even considered a prayer conference
before felt a clear call from the Lord
to come, being drawn ‘magnetically’
and challenged about increasing their
support of Israel at this crucial time.
Anne Linnell
Bible meditation
in Isaiah
Sandra Greer
Bible meditation
in Habakkuk
We were delighted to have many
Day Visitors on the Wednesday
and to catch up with our friends,
Sister Glory and Sister Thekla from
the Evangelical Sisters of Mary,
who loved the times of update and
fellowship. Several representatives of
Lydia International regions came too,
continuing to pray for and support
Israel as their mandate states.
We were also really blessed
when our friend, Amber Sutter,
the CFI Germany International
Representative, said she had been
led to attend to support CFI UK.
Her first ever visit to the UK was
so greatly appreciated. She shared
in accompanying some sessions of
sung worship with David, revealing
a beautiful and incredibly anointed
gifting, alongside bringing prayerful
insights, the blessing of which was
felt by all present.
David Linnell, new chairman of the
CFI UK board of trustees, and Jacob
Vince our chief executive, shared
their heart and prayer priorities for
the year ahead.
We heard about the threats that
have continued in the spirit of
Haman, through Hitler and now
Hamas. We were led through some
great morning Bible meditations by
Sandra Greer and Anne Linnell on
Habakkuk 1 and Isaiah 45. Due to
the ongoing conflict, we concentrated
some prayer on the ‘influencers’ in
the media at this time, whether for
good or for harm, and we noted in
6 ENHANCE • 2 nd Quarter 2024

“Its just so good to be in fellowship and
pray with people who love Israel”
“We really entered into the Holy of
Holies and touched his throne of grace”
Your Conference Feedback
“Truly blessed by all the aspects
of the conference”
“Never experienced anything like
it – loved it ... so glad we came”
“Over the years I have seen
that CFI UK has become
much deeper, perhaps there
isn’t much time left to stand
with Israel before the Lord
returns”
“An amazing time and such a privilege to pray for each other and to cover the team with such glorious
anointing. It felt like you were all covered in God’s armour, no gaps around you but covered in his Chappah
Amber Sutter
CFI Germany
Ministered in song
Interceding for Israel,
the Church and CFI
Tristan Hall
Executive Director
CFI Jerusalem
Fellowship at meal times
David Linnell sharing on the
heart of God for prayer
Enthralled by Nicky’s Family –
a true life docudrama film
the social media rhetoric that several
Arabs and celebrities are supportive,
having an understanding of Israel’s
situation.
We were truly blessed and
appreciative of the personal video
message sent by Tristan Hall, director
of CFI Jerusalem Israel, recorded
especially for the occasion. He
thanked CFI UK and our supporters
for their prayer support and
donations given to the work in Israel
and their team, especially sharing
the impact on the ministry and staff
since the massacre. He updated
us on specific projects and divine
opportunities they had been given to
serve in the days since the war began.
We prayed for the hostages and their
families, as well as the huge increase
in numbers affected by trauma and
displaced lives. We prayed for the
team, the many roles still needing
to be filled and some particular
people they had been led to support,
whether Holocaust survivors
affected in the massacre or families of
hostages who have needed financial
support because of the economic
downturn. They try to function
in the uncertainty that faces them
each day, not knowing where loved
ones are. It was amazing to hear
the wholehearted prayers offered in
small groups stirred to pray over the
work in Israel, and for Tristan’s goals
in the short and long term.
In the later session on Wednesday
evening, we were enthralled by
Nicky’s Family – a docudrama on the
life and legacy of Nicholas Winton
and the Kindertransport immediately
prior to the Second World War.
Many children were rescued by his
campaign to get Jewish children out
of Czechoslovakia as the Nazis began
to fill the concentration camps of the
Holocaust. Information about the
DVD is in Resources, page 12.
The whole conference was blessed
and anointed as we surrendered
agendas before the Lord for the
leading of the Holy Spirit. We give
thanks and honour for the faithful
kindness of his presence and the
impact he will continue to have in the
lives of each of us who attended.
Thank you for praying for this
important event.
2 nd Quarter 2024 • ENHANCE 7

Out & About
Showing the Jewish Community the
love of Christian Friends
As you will be aware, the three main areas of
Christian Friends of Israel (CFI) activity in the UK
are ‘Encouraging Understanding’ amongst the
wider church, of Israel in context biblically,
historically and today; ‘Challenging
Prejudice’ and antisemitism alongside
the UK Jewish community, and
‘Assisting Community’ in Israel
itself, through the work of CFI
Jerusalem and direct support
of various humanitarian
charities there.
A few weeks ago, CFI UK’s
David and Julia Soakell had
the opportunity to speak at a
northern synagogue Shabbat
dinner, having been invited
to share the heart of the work
CFI have been doing since the
horrific 7 th October attack by
Hamas on Israel. (We have not
named the synagogue or town for
security reasons).
The Jewish community that met on that
Shabbat numbered around 70, many of them young
families.
Students curious about
Christian views on Israel
They were very welcoming, open, and appreciative
of our representing CFI there, and the feedback since
has been heartwarming. Many shared how difficult
it is living their normal lives in the UK today
with the rise in antisemitism and the ‘Jewhatred
marches’ on the UK streets.
Many of them fear for their future.
One young Jewish mother of two
children stated, “It is very hard
living here knowing that the
whole world hates you.”
Leah, the Rabbi’s wife
with whom we made the
arrangements, emailed after
the event stating, “We could
not have asked for better
or kinder friends from the
Christian community to address
our crowd! Julia and you should
be blessed in the wonderful
work you do, and in your personal
lives! We cannot thank you enough
for joining on us Friday night and look
forward to connecting again.”
Please do remember to pray for the UK Jewish
community.
Jacob Vince spoke to around 16 students at the University of
Southampton on 7 th March, his audience including Jews and
Christians. The talk outlined a range of perspectives on Israel
among Christians, the tragic antisemitism
of the Crusades, the Christians who
petitioned Oliver Cromwell to
readmit Jews to England after
they were expelled in 1290, the
involvement of Christians ahead
of the 1917 Balfour Declaration, and
inter-faith relations in Israel today.
The Southampton Friends of Israel Society, which hosted the event, is
engaging students about Israel’s history and culture as an alternative
to a growing Palestine solidarity group.
Politics student Rachel Cary said, “Everyone learned something
new. The audience asked lots of questions on topics such as Israel and
Bible prophecy, replacement theology, and how Israeli and Palestinian
Christians should relate to each other. Many Christian students are
unaware that modern Israel holds a special place in God’s heart, so this
was an important first step in encouraging them to think further. The campus
security team were really helpful, and happily no safety incidents occurred.”
8 ENHANCE • 2 nd Quarter 2024

Feature
Hidden Treasures - Hope of Curaçao
Curaçao (/ˈkjʊərəsaʊ, -soʊ/ KURE-əss-ow, - oh, Dutch: [kyraːˈsʌu]) is a liqueur flavoured with the
dried peel of the bitter orange laraha, a citrus fruit grown on the Caribbean island of Curaçao.
When Columbus sailed
the ocean blue in 1492,
little did he know he
was ending up in the Caribbean, as
opposed to India. When another
Spanish expedition headed for the
Caribbean in 1499, this time settling
the “undiscovered” island of Curaçao,
little did commander Alonso de Ojeda
and his crew know that they were
laying the foundation for the world’s
most famous blue liqueur.
Among the Spanish plans for the island was
an attempt to cultivate Seville oranges,
with records showing that seeds were
brought ashore at least as far back as
1527. However, the juicy, scurvy-fighting
orange struggled under the island’s harsh
equatorial sun, arid climate, and infertile
soil, changing into a small, bitter, and
inedible green citrus. Small orchards of
the trees remained, though the fruits went
unused.
After the Spanish, the Dutch set out on a
conquest of Curaçao in 1634. Joining them
on that very first mission, and on others to
follow, were a contingent of Jewish families.
One of them on the initial voyage was a
Jewish translator, Samuel Cohen, followed
notably in 1651 by a Portuguese Jewish
group led by Joao d’Ylan, who brought a
dozen settlers with him. They founded
Beth Haim Bleinheim, a Jewish cemetery,
in the same year. Further groups followed,
predominantly those of Portuguese and
Spanish Jewish descent, including a large
contingent in 1659.
In 1732, the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel
synagogue was founded to support the
growing community. Mikvé, meaning
hope, is the oldest synagogue in continuous
use in the Americas. The Jewish people
never stopped worshiping there in
Curaçao, no matter the internal or external
circumstances.
That Spain-to-Holland-to-Curaçao pipeline
for Jewish settlers can be exemplified by
one family in particular, the Seniors. And
here’s another lovely ironic touch: a Jewish
family founded a global business making
use of the too-bitter-to-eat oranges the
Spanish initially brought to the island.
Mordechai Senior was born in Amsterdam in
1620 to a family that had escaped Spanish
persecution, and several of his descendants
made their way to Curaçao. Many
generations later, it was Edgar Senior, along
with his partner Haim Mendes Chumaceiro
– himself the son of a prominent rabbi of
Curaçao, Aron Mendes Chumaceiro – who
founded Senior & Co. in 1896.
Sometime over the years, it was discovered
that the dried peels of those bitter oranges
could be stepped on or cracked to release
an enticing fragrance. The oranges, now
known as Laraha oranges, also known as
the bitter orange, became the basis for the
island’s eponymous liqueur. Today, Senior
& Co. presents it as “The Genuine Curaçao
Liqueur” and receives special allowance
from the U.S. Tax and Trade Bureau to use
the word “genuine” or “authentic” on its
labels.
The Jewish history and culture can still
be felt on the island today. Mikvé Israel-
Emanuel remains operational and can be
visited by the public, as can that original
cemetery, Beth Haim Bleinheim; with many
historical national buildings, also found in
the World Heritage list, as visible evidence
of the impressive Jewish presence in
Curaçao.
The Beth Haim Bleinheim cemetery is
the confusing scene of hybrid Jewish-
Portuguese names carved into ancient,
above-ground tombs found in the
Caribbean. The Jewish community has had
a big impact on the growth of the island
and its cultural heritage.
Many centuries of immigration and
agricultural failure, of Spanish,
Portuguese, Dutch, Jewish
and Caribbean influence,
eventually brought this
famed liqueur to life.
To life. L’chaim, in this case.
Based on an article by Jake Emen a freelance drinks,
food and travel journalist based in San Diego
2 nd Quarter 2024 • ENHANCE 9

Tour review
With tours unable to
take place in Israel,
in March a tour
company that CFI UK have
used diversified by arranging
a leaders’ tour of the seven
churches in Revelation across
western Turkey, which Jacob
joined with his wife Kate.
Churches of
Revelation
Tour
From Istanbul via Troas and Izmir (Ephesus)
The Sophia Mosque, Istanbul, converted
from the original Eastern Orthodox church
Troas from where the gospel went to Europe
Most present had led tours to Israel
and it was special to learn together.
One pastor from Cornwall had
conducted the wedding for Tristan
and Galya who we contacted
whilst in Turkey, receiving the
reply, ‘No way’!
1. Ephesian high street
Each leader prepared a talk at the
various locations. Jacob spoke at
Troas when we stopped enroute,
from where the gospel went to
Europe (see Acts 16:8-12) and Paul
was used to raise Eutychus from
the dead (see Acts 20:7-12).
From Istanbul to Izmir, we saw
Greek orthodox, Roman, Ottoman
5b. Sardis the Gymnasium
6. Philadelphia
The Leaders Group seen here in Ephesus
It was a full itinerary with many
miles travelled by coach, plus five
hotels in the seven days.
Roman amphitheatre in Ephesus
2. Smyrna waters 3. Pergamos ruins
4. Thyatira old and new
5a. Sardis Synagogue
7. Laodicea, lukewarm waters still
and modern-day Turkey. It was
fascinating to see and learn how
the Bible-times and ancient history
plus geographical settings matched
the letters written to the seven
churches, showing the letters were
not random but written for their
day as well as later generations of
churches to learn from.
There were some interesting
comparisons to make between
Turkey and Israel. The learning,
fellowship and comparing of notes
with likeminded believers was
greatly refreshing.
We are considering linking with
another Israel-related ministry
arranging a tour later this year, so
contact us if interested.
10 ENHANCE • 2 nd Quarter 2024

UK Events
CFI UK plan to exhibit at the following live events in 2024
Mon 22 nd July — Thur 25 th July 2024
Gordon Castle Estate Fochabers Village
Aberdeenshire, Scotland, IV32 7PQ
1 – 4 August 2024
Royal Cornwall Events Centre, Wadebridge
Grange-de-Lings,
Lincoln, LN2 2NA
Visit the CFI UK resources stall,
encouraging understanding of Israel
CRE Milton Keynes 9–10 October 2024
Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes
SAVE
THE
DATE
Featuring
CFI UK Annual Conference 2024
September Friday 27 th (6-9pm) & Saturday 28 th (9am-6pm)
Jesus and the land of Israel
“We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law and
about whom the prophets also wrote” (John 1:45)
Steven Notley Professor of New
Testament and Christian Origins at
Nyack College New York City and
theological advisor at Bethsaida Julius
Galilee archaeological excavation.
Programme includes...
Jesus and the Passover
Bethsaida home of the Apostles
Jesus in the land
Venue: Suncoast Church, Eastbourne BN22 8TR
Contact: CFI Communications, PO Box 2687, Eastbourne, BN22 7LZ
Tel: 01323 410810 Email: info@cfi.org.uk Web: www.cfi.org.uk
further speaker to be announced
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2 nd Quarter 2024 • ENHANCE 11

Resources www.cfi.org.uk/shop.php
THE RIDDLE OF ONE SAMUEL – DAVID PENNANT
Is it possible to discern central concerns of the Hebrew text of the Old Testament by noting possible
wordplays there? Ancient Hebrew, which is a different kind of language, may contain hints of just this kind,
particularly in relation to the proper names.
By explaining everything carefully with the use of simple diagrams, this book is easily accessible to non-
Hebraists as well as those who read Hebrew.
B545 // 160 PAGES // £7.50 (INCL. UK P&P)
For resources call: 01323 410 810
Postal savings on multiple items
ONE LIFE – BARBARA WINTON
This book was first published in 2014 as ‘If It’s Not Impossible... The Life of Sir Nicholas Winton’
Sir Nicholas Winton rescued 669 children from Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia at the brink of World War II.
Most never saw their parents again; nearly all left behind were murdered. This is his story. In 1938 29-yearold
‘Nicky’ cancelled a ski holiday and instead spent nine months masterminding a seemingly impossible
plan to rescue hundreds of Jewish children and find them homes in the UK. Over 6,000 people are alive
today because of his efforts.
B544 // 282 PAGES // £13.00 (INCL. UK P&P)
NICKY’S FAMILY – JOE SCHLESINGER
Just before the outbreak of WW2, Sir Nicholas Winton saved 669 Jewish children from the Nazis. Dubbed
the ‘British Schindler’ for his heroism, this award-winning documentary tells his story through dramatic reenactments
narrated by those he rescued and Sir Nicholas himself. Rare archival footage and interviews
with Joe Schlesinger, a CBC reporter and one of the rescued children, documents not only how Winton’s act
changed the lives of those he rescued, but also how it continues to influence the lives of thousands worldwide.
D123 // DVD 97 MINS // £9.50 (INCL. UK P&P)
HAS GOD FINISHED WITH ISRAEL? – ROB RICHARDS
2023 (Re-Print). Much has been written and spoken by Christians on the issue of Israel. This book is one
man’s journey to take a close and deep look at the place of Israel within the purposes of God. It contains the
key to understanding God’s continued purposes for both the Jewish people and the Church and answers key
questions such as are Jewish people still the ‘chosen people’ and how do events in Israel today fit in with
biblical prophecy?
B41 // 219 PAGES // £12.50 (INCL. UK P&P)
ESTHER – ROSE PUBLISHING – 14 panel (7 double-sided) foldout glossy pamphlet
A summary of the story of Esther; includes a map of the Persian Empire; time line; the feast of Purim’s
historical background; comparison charts on the key people; Hebrew/Persian meanings of their names; and
spiritual insights between the two banquets.
The story of Queen Esther answers the question: Where is God
when things go wrong? Her story brings a message of hope to all
who face trouble by showing how God works even through the
fears and dangers. There are happy endings in perilous times!
BT74 // 14 PANELS // £5.50 (INCL. UK P&P)
LIVE AT THE TOWER OF DAVID – JOSHUA AARON (2019)
Recorded live within the walls of the Old City in Jerusalem, ‘Live at the Tower of David’ features
among others Aaron Shust, Chief RiverWind and some of the finest musicians from Israel and the
nations. 14 Songs • 1 hour and 1 minute.
MC60 // MUSIC CD // £13.50 (INCL. UK P&P)
Contact: CFI Communications, PO Box 2687, Eastbourne, BN22 7LZ
Tel: 01323 410810 Email: info@cfi.org.uk Web: www.cfi.org.uk
@christianfriendsofisrael_uk
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facebook.com/cfiuk
youtube.com/cfiuk