Linga - Haifa
The Fellowship of Christian Students held their annual Spring Conference at the Beit Eil Hostel in Haifa. The event lasted two days, May 14-15 and was entitled “Those who sow in sadness will reap songs of joy.” Psalm 126:5
The conference began on Friday, May 14th at 3 PM with student registration.
The first meeting was at Beti Hasda church on Allenbi St. with about 100 attendees consisting of students and graduates. Zaher Haddad began the meeting with welcoming words for students, both Arab and Jewish believers, and announcing the 30th anniversary of the foundation of FCSI. He prayed for that God would be glorified in the meeting.
The worship time was unique, combining songs in both Hebrew and Arabic. The students united in praise and worship of Christ’s love that joined them together.
Lisa Loden, the chairman of the counseling committee of FCSI, shared a brief message about the importance of this new believing generation and the role of the older generation of students in supporting and encouraging them. She prayed that God will bless the ministry with wisdom and grace so that the students will be strong witnesses for the Lord.
Zaher Haddad shared a brief history of this ministry in Israel, showing pictures taken over the last thirty years.
Merick Beyezka shared a welcoming word on behalf of the International Evangelistic Fellowship of Students (IFES).
Azeez Daeem, the chairman of the Evangelical Council, was the main speaker during the first meeting and Raja Jeryes provided translation in Hebrew. Brother Azeez shared encouraging words about the influence of the ministry over 30 years, focusing on the importance of planting seeds and reaping with joy. He stressed the importance of the students belief in Jesus at their universities the continuation of the unifying meetings between Arab and Jewish believers.
The day ended with dinner at Even Elezer Garden followed by an evening of activities and fellowship.
The second day began with a devotional from the book of Job 1 & 2, meditating on the hard condition that Job experienced and his response to his circumstances.
The main meeting was held at Bethel Church and Yonatan Goldberg was the main speaker, followed by fellowship between groups. The conference ended on a high note with students from both sides establishing friendships and thanking the Lord for the opportunity to gather together.
