By Karen Katulka

The renowned scholar and theologian C.S. Lewis once said, “Seek unity and you will find neither unity nor truth. Seek the light of truth, and you will find both unity and truth.”

In the greater Philadelphia area exists a community of Christians inspired by a passion for Scripture and united by compassion for the Jewish people worldwide. Since 1938, The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry (FOI) has been steadfast in its commitment to meeting the practical needs of Jewish communities, who have endured centuries of persecution and antisemitism. For 86 years, Christian men and women have remained steadfast in their dedication to supporting, standing with, and providing both physical and spiritual encouragement to these enduring people.

Born as a response to the persecution in Europe, FOI initially extended a warm welcome to Jewish men, women, and children fleeing their homes, offering them clothing, blankets, and supplies to fill the void left by their displacement.

Ongoing Expansion and Impact

Today, FOI’s reach spans the globe, aiming to ignite a passion for God’s Word, teaching His plan for Israel, and helping Christians grasp the importance of showing compassion to His people in their daily lives. Locally, FOI’s teams of Bible teachers host tours to Israel, local conferences, and events to inspire Christians to study God’s Word with a deeper understanding of their Jewish Messiah. The Friends of Israel Today radio program broadcasts weekly, providing biblical teaching and insightful perspectives on news concerning Israel. The award-winning magazine, Israel My Glory, continues its bi-monthly global distribution, offering readers solid biblical doctrine and timely reports on the Middle East.

FOI’s global expansion includes compassionate teams in Poland, Ukraine, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, and Israel, with new locations added annually. In Buenos Aires, Argentina, FOI’s team of doctors provides free medical care to those who lack the financial means to access it. Recently, amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, our Polish team delivered truckloads of food and supplies to a city in need, with recipients expressing profound gratitude, stating, “I want to thank you, on behalf of my whole family, for this humanitarian help.” Partnering with relief organizations in Israel, FOI is deeply involved in providing tangible aid, including bomb shelters, medical supplies, Medicycles, and life-saving support. As some have remarked, the sun never sets on The Friends of Israel.

While true unity may elude us on this side of heaven, The Friends of Israel will remain dedicated to loving who God loves, guiding others toward truth, and encouraging everyone to pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

Download The Friends of Israel app today! Learn more at foi.org/foi-app.