UPDATES AND NEWS FLASHES

 April 22, 2009

"The Greatest Honor Ever Bestowed..."

Christian broadcaster, Earl Cox, was among the specially invited guests to Yad Vahsem for this year's Yom HaShoah Remembrance Wreath Laying Ceremony paying honor and respect to those Jewish men, women and children who were murdered by Nazi Germans in their death camps during World War II.

      

“Tears will not bring six million Jews back or erase the horrific atrocities inflicted on a people by a warped and predacious anti-Semitic society but they just might keep us remembering our silence.  One of the greatest honors ever bestowed on me was the privilege of participating in this two day ceremony paying tribute to my Jewish brothers and sisters who were brutally murdered during the Holocaust."

April 20 and 21 marked the two day ceremony of Holocaust Martyrs’ and Heroes' Remembrance Day at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem, Israel.      

 

UPDATE FROM THE FRONT LINES AT SDEROT, ISRAEL  JANUARY 22,2009

MAYOR OF SDEROT, ISRAEL TELLS CHRISTIAN BROADCASTER EARL COX
HIS CITY AND PEOPLE WILL SURVIVE DESPITE HAMAS

 Sderot Mayor David Bouskila and Earl Cox

For a complete story click this link   http://www.vimeo.com/2908711
 NOTE:  If you have any difficulty when clicking on this link, simply copy and paste it into your browser and this should solve the problem. 

 

  

   

UPDATE FROM THE FRONT LINES AT SDEROT, ISRAEL  JANUARY 18,2009

One War -Two Fronts 
 Israel Versus Hamas AND the Liberal Media

Unlike other wars where the opposition is known, defined and tangible, Israel is at war with two enemies and, in reality, engaged in two separate but interconnected struggles.  Israel is battling Hamas terrorist thugs who want Israel’s land and they are battling the liberal media who want to win the hearts and minds of the general pubic around the world in order to force the tide of public opinion against Israel.  Hamas is using weaponry and artillery in their battle but they are also using the media who seems a willing accomplice. Hamas stages scenes of death and destruction thus feeding the media outright lies and half truths and the media seems all too ready to swallow with gusto Hamas’s poison propaganda and gleefully share it with the world.  Whatever happened to investigative journalism where getting at the truth and uncovering the facts mattered without regard to political correctness and where the "facts" were not slanted to reflect the political persuasion of the person writing or doing the reporting?

If the truth were to be reported, the world would know that Hamas terrorist thugs are waging their war against Israel from the very heart of populated Palestinian neighborhoods rather than a battlefield where strength and courage determine the outcome.  The liberal media use misleading words and phrases to deceive a largely lethargic world society into believing Israel is evil.  The people of Israel have defended themselves from far tougher opponents and will again emerge victorious.  The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is still in Israel’s corner.  He has never abandoned His people but has instead strengthened their resolve to prevail.  

On a recent evening after sunset as the night’s wintery cold began settling onto the desert of southern Israel,  the Christian humanitarian team from America known as Israel Always stood 60 meters from the fighting at the Gaza border with arms full of gifts of food and American flags.  They embraced the IDF troops leaving Israeli soil to defend their land and people against Hamas who are determined not to live in peace but rather to destroy Israel.

Earlier in the day the Israel Always team led by Christian columnist and broadcaster, Earl Cox, visited with government officials from the Negev Regional Council and the Sderot mayor's office to determine the areas in southern Israel where humanitarian assistance is most needed. The Deputy Mayor of Sderot, Amsalem Michael, praised the many people who unselfishly contributed to the manufacture and placement of fifty (50) transportable bomb shelters in and around Sderot stressing that these shelters provide a level of comfort as people have adapted to their situation by practically tethering their lives to places of safety such as these shelters never straying too far from the protection they provide.  Cox pledged to continue to raise monetary support to build additional shelters which are much needed at schools, in playgrounds, retirement homes and bus stops. “We in the Evangelical Christian community will never desert the people God Himself has chosen as His special people. This a promise,” said Cox.

Click on the following link to spend a few moments with IDF troops and IA volunteers as they offer support and encouragement to the troops.   http://www.vimeo.com/2843111

www.IsraelAlways.com

   

UPDATE FROM THE FRONT LINES AT SDEROT, ISRAEL  JANUARY 14,2009

                Your Support For Israel Keeping                        
 IDF  Encouraged and Warm 

Thanks to Israel Always supporters, many of Israel's IDF soldiers are a little warmer tonight because you helped us with some of the work undertaken by ISRAEL ALWAYS.

American Christian broadcaster, Earl Cox, and the Israel Always team of volunteers were at the Gaza border in southern Israel again today this time handing out 100 insulated undergarments and 3 liter water containers.  The IDF tank brigade shared tears and hugs with the Israel Always team and asked Earl to say a special THANK YOU to the many people who gave of their hard earned money to make their lives a little more comfortable and tolerable during these most difficult days.   The video below represent just a sampling of the joy and comfort the IA team was able to impart by this simple act and the appreciation is clearly reflected in the video.
 

                               To see and Video of the event click below. 

                           http://www.vimeo.com/2829364

   

UPDATE FROM THE FRONT LINES AT SDEROT, ISRAEL  JANUARY 14,2009

American ‘Israel Always’ Encourages IDF at Gaza Border 

The Israel Always team led by American Christian broadcaster, Earl Cox, was on the front lines near the Gaza border again today bringing encouragement to IDF troops.  After sharing treats and handing out American flags to the soldiers, Cox told an IDF tank brigade that they could rest with confidence knowing the vast majority of Evangelical Christians around the world stand with them in their war against radical Muslim Hamas terrorists.  Cox reiterated his earlier remarks made on Israel’s Channel One television network that "Israel is fighting cowards who embed themselves in densely populated Palestinian neighborhoods hoping for civilian casualties as a play for media attention to make Israel look like the aggressor rather than meeting the IDF face to face on the battlefield thus saving innocent lives. The Hamas do this," Cox said, "by launching their Kassam rocket attacks from schools, hospitals and the roof tops of houses and apartment complexes knowing that Israel has the technology to pinpoint rocket launch sites and that the only way to stop the Hamas from launching additional attacks is to strike back. The Hamas are to blame for Palestinian civilian casualties; not Israel.  This war with Gaza is a war of Israeli heroes against barbarian cowards who mask their faces and run for cover at the very sight of IDF soldiers."  Later in the day the Israel Always team journeyed throughout southern Israel visiting with IDF troops just back from Gaza.   Before sunset, the Israel Always team linked up with two Rabbis and a Jewish humanitarian group, Livnot Volunteers, and delivered nearly 100 pizzas and sodas to IDF troops readying to enter Gaza. Throughout the day 19 Kassam rockets were fired by Hamas into southern Israel from Gaza.   

For Video Coverage of events throughout the day click   http://www.vimeo.com/israelalways/videos

   

UPDATE FROM THE FRONT LINES AT SDEROT, ISRAEL  JANUARY 11,2009

Gaza War... 

"Heroes verses Cowards," says American Christian Broadcaster

Appearing on Israel's most watched television news program, "A Look at the World," American Christian Broadcaster, Earl Cox, called the Gaza war "a war of Israeli heroes verses radical Muslim terrorists who use innocent Palestinians as human shields."  Two days ago Cox himself narrowly escaped serious injury when a Kassam rocket exploded throwing him and one of his aides against the wall at the entrance to one of the 50 Operation LifeShield portable shelters he helped placed in Sderot, Israel.  Cox told Israel Channel 1 television host, Yaakov Ahimeir, "There are millions upon millions of Christians around the world who are proud of Israel for finally standing up against radical Hamas terrorist." Known as Israel's radio voice to America, Cox said that most of the civilized world has finally awakened and realized that what Israel has faced from Hamas in Gaza for the last three years will soon be at their thresholds if Hamas is victorious over Israel.  "Now that Israel has said to the leaders of Hamas "enough is enough," the world is watching to see if Israel is serious or bluffing. Anything less than Israel's pursuit of Hamas will not only be a disappointment to those who stand with Israel but it will send a message to the entire world that Israel lacks the resolve to do their part to bring down an enemy who is a threat to the entire world. The people who value freedom and democracy are depending on Israel to do their part in helping eradicate the evil and darkness of terrorism."  
 

When asked what he thought of the US abstaining from casting a vote in favor of Israel at the UN Security Council when they called for a vote condemning and chiding Israel for pursuing Hamas terrorists, Cox said that "the Bush administration's abstention does not, in any way, represent the views of Evangelical Christians whose numbers amount to tens of millions of people who firmly stand with and support Israel."  Cox went on to say, "It would be a travesty and an insult to God Himself for the government of Israel to back away from an enemy who is committed to the total destruction of Israel and her people.  The enemies of Israel are the enemies of the Almighty living God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
 

Click on this link to see the program   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChoI2ztTPAM 

   

UPDATE FROM THE FRONT LINES AT SDEROT, ISRAEL  JANUARY 18,2009

ALERT - ALERT - ALERT 

Kassam Bomb Blast Knocks American Christian Broadcaster off his feet in Sderot, Israel

- Blast Documented on Film -

SDEROT, ISRAEL --- International Christian broadcaster and columnist, Earl Cox, today lived through what Jews in southern Israel live through each day. Cox, who is known as "the voice of Israel to America," was in Sderot, an Israeli city on the Gaza border, identifying some of the many humanitarian needs of the people living in this area where warning sirens and rocket blasts are a part of everyday life.  Cox and his crew experienced a first hand taste of this terror today; not once but twice.  As he and his crew were preparing to film a video report when the siren sounded alerting everyone of incoming Kassam rockets.  All scrambled for cover.  The rocket landed so close to Cox and his crew that the shock waves from the blast threw him and one of his aids against the wall inside one of the 50 portable bomb shelters placed in and around Sderot by Israel Always and Operation LifeShield. Thanks to this shelter, Cox and his crew escaped serious injury.

Shortly after this first blast, Cox and others on his Israel Always team experienced a second rocket attack and had to scurry for shelter this time finding only an unprotected building. Fortunately they again escaped injury.

The Israel Always team will remain in southern Israel until the end of Israel's war with radical Hamas terrorists in Gaza.  Since beginning his campaign in support of Israel more than ten years ago, Cox and his organization have raised huge sums of money to help meet humanitarian needs in Israel.

 Within hours the film footage which captured this chaos will be able to be viewed on GodTube, Vimeo and YouTube and also on the website http://www.IsraelAlways.com.

 

FOLLOW UP VIDEO RED ALERT!

Kassam Rocket Blast Blows Christian Broadcaster, Earl Cox,
to the ground

Chaos captured on film.  Click on the link below to view the video.  If you have problems viewing this video, copy and paste this link into your browser.

http://www.vimeo.com/2765103 

   

  

       

TAKING A LOOK AT ISRAEL AND THE MIDDLE EAST FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF AN EVANGELICAL CHRISTIAN.

Pictured above is Earl Cox on the set of the Yaccov Ahimeir television show; Israel's most popular

weekly news magazine featuring a format similar to 60 Minutes or 20/20. This interview was conducted in October 2008 to discuss the US presidential elections from the perspective of an Evangelical Christian who, during his professional career, was a Washington D.C. insider having served in senior level positions in the administrations of four U.S. presidents.  As a private citizen, Earl Cox is currently devoting his time and resources promoting support for Israel and her people.

In addition to his international radio broadcast, Earl is a regular contributing writer to the Jerusalem Post; Israel's largest newspaper published in English.  Keep up with his articles by LOGGING ON TO www.JPost.com then clicking on the purple button marked
CHRISTIAN WORLD SECTION

 THERE IS NO GREATER GOOD THAN THE SAVING OF A LIFE

Pictured above from Left to Right: International Christian Broadcaster Earl Cox with Pastor John Hagee of
Christians United for Israel and Shep Alster, Co-Founder of Operation LifeShield

Since May 2007, international Christian broadcaster, Earl Cox, has been serving as the official spokesperson for Operation LifeShield; an emergency effort to provide transportable bus stop bomb shelters to areas of need in Israel. Speaking at two back to back Night to Honor Israel rallies in Atlanta and Charlotte this past Monday and Tuesday evenings, Cox called on each and every Christian and Jew in both audiences to step up in support of Israel by giving generously to the manufacture and placement of these shelters to help protect innocent Israelis living in southern Israel from incoming rockets launched daily by Hamas terrorists in Gaza. Joining Cox in this emergency campaign are his broadcast partner, Ben Kinchlow, and Pastor John Hagee of Christians United for Israel among others. The Monday night rally in Atlanta drew close to three thousand attendees. It was hosted at Trinity Chapel under the guidance of senior pastor Bishop Jim Bolin. The Atlanta and Charlotte rallies combined generated close to $60,000.00 to help support Operation LifeShield. To date, approximately twenty-five shelters have been deployed to southern Israel concentrating on the towns of Sderot and also Sha’ar Hanagev. “Depending on the size, Operation LifeShield transportable bomb shelters cost between $20,000.00 and $40,000.00 to manufacture, transport and place on site,” said Shep Alster, one of the two founders of Operation LifeShield. “While many shelters are already in place helping to save lives, many more are needed. Once adequate shelters have been placed in and near Israeli cities and towns bordering Gaza, our attention will shift to the north of Israel anticipating the need to help protect northern Israeli populations from the Hezbollah in Lebanon."


Trinity Chapel in Powder Springs, GA drew an audience estimated at close to 3000

For information on how YOU can become a LifeShielder,

please visit www.OperationLifeShield.com or www.IsraelAlways.org

 

ISRAEL ALWAYS NEWS UPDATE

For Release:  December 27, 2007

Contact:  IAmedia@IsraelAlways.org  


 

PRESS RELEASE

For Release:  AM Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Contact:  IAmedia@IsraelAlways.org  
 

     International Christian Broadcaster Calls for Prayer for Ariel Sharon

Having just returned from Jerusalem, Israel following his participation in the International Christian Embassy's annual Feast of Tabernacles celebration, American Christian broadcaster, Earl Cox, is calling on Christians worldwide to continue praying for Ariel Sharon; Israel’s fallen Prime Minister and war hero.   In a recent conversation with a Jerusalem Post reporter Cox said, “While some, including me, may not have agreed with all of Mr. Sharon’s decisions and policies, one cannot deny his greatness as a war hero whom God used on the front lines for Israel. It is important,” continued Cox, “to keep in mind that many of the former Prime Minister’s decisions were often largely related to international pressure which Israel is always under from leaders around the world.  As Christians in support of Israel, we must keep in mind that we do not have a say in the government of Israel as we are not Israeli citizens and we do not pay taxes in Israel. Our only mandate from God, as it relates to Israel, is to provide comfort and support and to pray for Israel and her people.  The government of Israel is responsible to God and the citizens of Israel, not to me.  God's hand is on Israel as it has always been.  I do not believe the God of the universe is yet through with Mr. Sharon."

Since the day Ariel Sharon fell to a stroke, Cox has been calling on Christians across America and around the world to pray for the former Prime Minister and his family.  During his frequent visits to Israel, Cox includes in his schedule visits to the hospital at Tel Hashomer where Sharon remains under medical care.  “Even though it appears,” Cox said, “that the world has forgotten this great leader who was and is beloved by many of his countrymen, I am persuaded there are many who continue to offer prayers for him. One thing is for certain, as long as I breathe, I will remind the world that Sharon still breaths.”  When asked by the Jerusalem Post reporter whether he felt Sharon was, indeed, still breathing, Cox replied, “I don’t pray and fast for dead people; only for the living.”


 

- NEWS UPDATE FROM JERUSALEM, ISRAEL -

FOR RELEASE AM October 8, 2007
CONTACT:  IAMedia@IsraelAlways.org

International Christian Broadcaster, Earl Cox, calls on Christians attending annual celebration in Jerusalem to support portable bomb shelter project for Sderot, Israel

ICEJ Feast of Tabernacles Celebration draws 7000 Christians representing 100 countries

Speaking to the annual International Christian Embassy Feast of Tabernacles celebration in Jerusalem, Earl Cox called on the delegates, the largest gathering ever in the history of the ICEJ, to support Operation LifeShield.  “Today,” Cox said, “we have the greatest opportunity to demonstrate Christian support for Israel and her people by providing portable bomb shelters to the towns of southern Israel near the Gaza border.  These people, the people of Sderot and other southern towns, live under the constant daily threat of incoming rockets.  We must act now.  If we, as Christians, believe as we claim, silence is not an option.  While we may not be able to stop the Kassams, we can help provide real safety and peace of mind.  Saving lives, the lives of people whom God Himself calls “the apple of His eye,” requires that we respond with a 100% commitment.”

According to Cox, in his eight years of coming to Israel, he has not witnessed greater enthusiasm for a project than what is being displayed in support of Operation LifeShield.  Cox and his broadcast partner, Ben Kinchlow, just returned from two weeks in the Holy Land representing Operation LifeShield at the Feast of Tabernacles.  Cox said, “I have talked with American and Israeli people from all walks of life, including officials at the highest levels of government.  All have pledged their wholehearted support for this humanitarian project.” 

Cox has been traveling America for the past four months speaking to groups to raise awareness of the need and the funds to provide portable bomb shelters to Sderot.  “The goal,” said Cox, “is to place a shelter at every bus stop in Sderot and in other areas which are also targets of Hamas.”  Cox believes that by the end of the year enough funds will have been secured to make that goal a reality.  “We have support and/or pledges from churches, synagogues, and many major Christian organizations including the International Christian Embassy, Christian Friends of Israel and Bridges of Peace,” said Cox.  “I cannot help but be encouraged by the outpouring of generosity I have experienced thus far.”

For additional information on Operation LifeShield and other Israel Always projects in support of Israel, log on to www.IsraelAlways.org. 

 

ARTICLE September 28th, 2007

The Atlanta Jewish Times online

SECURING ZION

    Sukkot crucial for bomb shelters

Michael Jacobs
 Managing Editor

 Christian Zionists from the United States will use the international Christian gathering of the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem in the next week to raise money for Operation LifeShield, a nonprofit operation that is building prefabricated 20- and 40-person bomb shelters for Israel. The smaller shelters, which cost $18,000 apiece, are for bus stops. The larger shelters cost $36,000 and are for places such as schools and retirement homes.

"It's one project for Jews and Christians that we can all agree on that's needed. You can't find faults. It's the humanitarian thing to do," said Israel Always leader Earl Cox, who has traveled across the South this summer to raise money for the shelters. Commitments to donate shelters have come from churches, synagogues and individuals. The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta is buying two shelters.

During a stop in Augusta, where a church pledged to buy two shelters, a wage-earner woman who saw Cox on TV contributed a check for $31,000. According to Cox, she said, "God said for me to give my total savings."

In Charleston, S.C., a woman who works two jobs for a living said she wanted to make a donation. He expected perhaps $100; he received $6,000.

It's that kind of excitement Cox hopes to tap during the Feast of Tabernacles, an annual Christian celebration of Sukkot organized by the 27-year-old International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, which claims to be the largest Christian Zionist organization in the world. It works to fulfill Isaiah 40:1 to comfort the Jewish people.

A crowd of 5,000 to 7,000 Christians is expected for the week, and they can view one of each kind of LifeShield shelter outside the convention center. Cox, fellow broadcaster Ben Kinchlow, and Atlanta-area Israel Always organizers Scott and Karen Allen will be among the American Christians promoting Operation LifeShield.

The Allens participated in an Israel Always mission to the front lines during the Second Lebanon War and had to huddle in a bathtub during a Katyusha missile attack, so they can share the experience of what it's like not to have a proper shelter.

Most of the Christians at the Feast will be from Europe, Cox said.

"Those people who come there may be of different denominations, but they're all there because of a love of Israel," Kinchlow said.

The Feast of Tabernacles observance, which the International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem has held for 27 years, is a source of controversy this year after a committee appointed by the Chief Rabbinate barred Jews from participating in the Sukkot parade or events at the convention center for fear that Christian missionaries would use the occasions to proselytize.

The Christian Embassy denied the charge. "The ICEJ has never conducted any missionary programs in Israel, and we clearly instruct our feast pilgrims against such activity during their stay here," said the Rev. Malcolm Hedding, the embassy's executive director.

"It's not a religious thing," Cox said. "They are there for Israel. ... They bring money. They bring help of all kinds." Feast pilgrims have already contributed $10,000 for shelters, and Cox is optimistic for a huge week of fundraising. "I don't want commitments," he said. "Commitments are great, and I know it takes time, but people who want to help need to stand up now."

He said the need is urgent in the south in Sderot and Ashkelon and across the north, but threats from Iran put all of Israel at risk.

"I feel so sorry for Israel and its people every day," said Cox, who will participate in a news conference for LifeShield this Sunday at the Feast of Tabernacles. "Israel will have protection for her people." [end]

ON THE ROAD RAISING FUNDS TO BUY PORTABLE BOMB SHELTERS FOR ISRAEL

Traveling throughout the Southeast talking to groups of pastors and other religious leaders concerning the need for portable bomb shelters in Israel, Earl stopped briefly in Augusta, Georgia where he met with Dr. Sandra Kennedy, senior pastor of Whole Life Ministries. After hearing of this need, Dr. Kennedy immediately purchased two bomb shelters and committed to at least one additional shelter. While in Augusta, Earl was a special guest on WBPI television, Channel 49. Dorothy Spaulding, host of the two hour television special, talked with Earl at length about Israel and Operation LifeShield. Breaking with tradition and in spite of her own fundraising needs, Mrs. Spaulding called upon her viewing audience to support this emergency campaign. Thanks to people like Sandra Kennedy and the congregation of Whole Life Ministries, and Dorothy Spaulding and the listeners of WBPI, untold numbers of Israelis will have a place to run for safety and comfort when their cities and towns come under attack.

Cox, along with his partner and fellow broadcaster, Ben Kinchlow, have set aside their regular schedules for the next six months to vigorously campaign for Operation LifeShield; perhaps the most important opportunity ever given to Christian and Jewish communities to help Israel in their war on terror. If you would like for Earl or Ben (or both) to come to your area to speak about this project, please email startwithme@gmail.com.

 

AMERICAN BROADCASTER HELPS LAUNCH PORTABLE AIR RAID SHELTERS IN ISRAEL

May 22, 2007 Joining Sderot’s Mayor Eli Moyal Sunday at a press conference at Jerusalem’s Teddy Stadium, international Christian broadcaster, Earl Cox, enthusiastically pledged his support for Sderot, Israel where Palestinians have bombarded them with Kassam rockets for the last five months.
                  
Traveling in Israel for the last two weeks, Cox came in contact with an organization called Operation LifeShield. Their mission is to provide air raid shelters to schools, sports fields, and all open public spaces where there is a danger of rocket and missile attacks from Gaza and Southern Lebanon. Mr. Cox pledged his support to Operation LifeShield and, once again, to Israel and the Jewish people. Since founding Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network, now international in scope, Cox has become a fixture of pro-Israel advocacy with officials in the State of Israel and the Jewish people welcome him with appreciation. Cox is asking the Christian community worldwide to join him in his quest to help create, maintain, and sustain a safe Israel. Since 2000, Cox has come to the aid of Israel and the Jewish people as they fight terrorism around the clock. Last summer when Hezbollah launched the unprovoked kidnappings of IDF soldiers instigating the Second Lebanon War, Cox organized a group of 27 volunteers who flew to Israel traveling to the northern border to demonstrate their support for Israel and her people.

Here are excerpts from his speech delivered at Teddy Stadium on Sunday:

“I cannot think of a place I would rather be today than at this ceremony to launch a campaign to raise funds for portable bomb shelters to protect innocent Israelis from barbaric attacks by radical Muslims. It is an honor for me to be among the first to make a contribution to this worthy endeavor. As the co-host of Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network, the most listened to radio network from Israel to America targeting Christian audiences, and the founder of Israel Always, I pledge to do all within my power to help Operation LifeShield accomplish their goal of providing 32 portable bomb shelters to Israel.”

“During the Second Lebanon War, I personally experienced how difficult it was for Israelis to live in hot, musty bomb shelters sometimes for weeks on end. These new portable bomb shelters will make it a little more bearable when Israelis come under attack and need safe shelter. Until Hamas, Fatah, Hezbollah, and other radical Muslim terrorist groups recognize Israel’s right to exist, the worldwide Evangelical Christian community will stand beside Israel.” Israel Always is a movement dedicated to strengthening ties between Christian and Jewish communities to stand strong with Israel.

Following the news conference at Teddy Stadium, Cox and Mayor Eli Moyal traveled to Sderot in southern Israel, located about a half mile from the Gaza border, where they officially unveiled a portable air raid shelter. Cox disclosed, "I had barely arrived in Sderot when the air raid sirens screamed out a warning. Twenty seconds later a Kassam rocket exploded about 100 yards from our van. Thirty minutes later the sirens warned of more incoming rockets which landed about a half mile from where I was meeting with citizens of Sderot. People scrambled to reach so-called ‘safe zones.’“ The situation is Sderot is so grave that the mayor has not slept for the past 36 hours. He said that he expects up to 15% of Sderot’s 24,000 residents to leave the area permanently due to the bombings. "Sderot’s economy,” he said, “is in serious decline. People cannot work. The stores are not open.” Moyal does not see an end to the Palestinian campaign any time soon. “It could be September before any light will be visible at the end of the tunnel."
 

Earl Cox, the “Voice of Israel to the World,” speaking at Launch of Operation LifeShield in Jerusalem

"I know from first-hand experience in my visit to Israel during the Second Lebanon War how vital these transportable bomb shelters are for Israeli kindergartens, classrooms, and senior citizen centers in high risk areas” Earl Cox , Founder, Israel Always


May 20, 2007   American Christian broadcaster Earl Cox, known as the “Voice of Israel to the World,” will encourage Jews and Christians alike to join together to save innocent lives in Israel by supporting Operation LifeShield at its official launch Sunday, May 20 in Jerusalem. All News Media are invited to cover the official launching of Operation LifeShield, a life saving program aimed at providing stand-alone transportable bomb shelters that have been approved by and carry the IDF Homefront Command seal. Operation LifeShield provides transportable above ground shelters to be donated for placement next to kindergartens, classrooms, youth clubs, golden age centers, synagogues and temporary structures that offer no protection from rocket attacks. At the Jerusalem launch, Eli Moyal, Mayor of Sderot, will discuss the need for the shelters in light of the situation in the South where villages are under constant threat of Hamas missile attacks. A shelter, loaded on a truck, will be available for photo ops just prior to its delivery to the Kalanit kindergarten in Sderot.

The above ground shelters are built offsite and transported to the area in need. Each shelter can hold up to 30 people during an air raid emergency and can be transported should security needs arise in another location. The shelters come standard with special armored steel door and window sets, exterior and interior lighting, electrical outlets, phone and cable outlets, and a generator hookup preparation. Upon certification, each shelter is strategically placed in areas where civilians are most vulnerable. To find out more about “Operation Lifeshield” shelters or to make a donation that will save the lives of innocent Israeli citizens, go to www.operationlifeshield.com.

When: Sunday, May 20th at 10-11:00 am

Where: Teddy Stadium parking lot (East side) in Jerusalem

What: Launching of Operation LifeShield

Why: To save lives during times of missile attacks in high risk areas

How: Donation of transportable bomb shelters

Who: Earl Cox, Sderot Mayor Eli Moyal

 

International Christian Broadcaster Renews Call for Christians and Jews to pray for Ariel Sharon 

Jerusalem - May 17, 2007  Leading a tour of Jews and Christians in Israel, American Christian broadcaster Earl Cox, known as the “Voice of Israel to the World,” has again called on Jews and Christians worldwide to frequently pray for the recovery of fallen Israeli warrior and leader, Ariel Sharon.  Cox, who regularly talks with the former Prime Minister’s son, dismisses suggestions that Sharon is deceased.  “I pray for the living, not the dead,” says Cox, “and every day I pray for God to open Mr. Sharon’s eyes.”

Earlier this week, Cox escorted the tour to an IDF military facility in northern Israel.  The group volunteered their time and talents performing support type work such as cleaning military equipment, painting barracks and general camp beautification.  Each volunteer “soldier” donned an official IDF uniform for the duration of their visit. To further demonstrate support for Israel, the tour collectively donated their blood to the Magen David Adom blood bank in Jerusalem which set up mobile units at the Jerusalem Gold Hotel. “Blood represents life,” said Cox, “and we gave ours as a token of respect for Mr. Sharon and also as a means of outwardly demonstrating our love for Israel and our desire to help save the lives of young Israelis who are constantly being forced to fight in defense of their country.”  This is the second time since Sharon went into a coma that Cox has brought Americans to Israel to give blood to the IDF. On two previous visits to Israel Cox asked for, and was granted, permission from the Sharon family to pray and fast near Sharon’s hospital room for extended periods of time. 

During Israel’s war with Lebanon in August 2006, Cox put out a call for Christians to join him on the front lines in Israel for the purpose of visiting IDF troops stationed on the Israeli/Lebanese border.  In less than a week, approximately 30 people answered the call and boarded planes for Tel Aviv.  Once the group hit the ground they divided in to two groups; half served on the intercessor prayer team while the other half traveled north to Metulla and the areas in and around Kiryat Shmona rendering encouragement and prayer support to soldiers as well as to citizens who could not flee for safer areas.  On a subsequent trip to the front lines, Cox visited with the Mayor of Kiryat Shmona to learn about the needs of his town which received the greatest number of Hezbollah missile strikes.  Cox and the three others who accompanied him were able to distribute food, money and support to Israeli and Arab families affected by the war.

 

                Rabbi Sirull and Earl Cox with two Magen David Adom lab technicians

 

 

At International Summit in Ukraine, Christian Broadcaster Calls for Muslims to Recognize Israel

 April 26, 2007    In a keynote speech today to the World Congress of Christians, Jews,  and Muslims, evangelical Christian broadcaster Earl Cox articulated to the interfaith group, “Our world is a beautiful tapestry of cultures yet there are those who want to rip the tapestry apart and remake it into one pattern, and one pattern only.  The time has come for the Muslim world to end its enmity toward Israel and recognize the Jewish state’s right to exist and embrace Israel as a fellow nation.”  Cox encouraged the summit participants to exhibit  “tolerance among faiths and intolerance toward evil.”   

The international gathering, hosted by Ukraine’s President Viktor Yushchenko, included 99 influential leaders in government, religion, economics, media, and business with 33 representatives each from the Muslim, Jewish, and Christian communities of faith.

 The Inaugural Summit on Peace and Tolerance met for two days at Ukraine’s Presidential Palace sponsored by Global Capital Associates and the Ukrainian Interfaith Association  in conjunction with  World Congress for Christians, Jews & Muslims and Global Foundation for  Democracy.  

 Among those attending were former Pakistani Prime Minister Bhutto, Israel's Chief Rabbi Yona Metzger, Tom Ridge, first Secretary of US Homeland Security, and Sheikh Hamdi Murad. 

 Cox, founder of Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network and Israel Always is a noted Middle East commentator whose radio program now spans the US and is broadcast across the world. He served four US Presidents in senior positions in Washington, DC before devoting his energies to creating Israel advocacy initiatives beginning in 2000. Ben Kinchlow, internationally known Christian TV personality, formerly with The 700 Club, joined Cox in 2004 as co-host of the radio program, now the most listened-to Christian broadcast emanating from Jerusalem.

SPEECH DELIVERED BY EARL COX, FOUNDER, ISRAEL ALWAYS & FRONT PAGE JERUSALEM GLOBAL RADIO NETWORK, TO THE INAUGURAL SUMMIT ON PEACE AND TOLERANCE, KIEV, UKRAINE.

The Summit, sponsored by Global Capital Associates & the Ukrainian Interfaith Association in conjunction with World Congress for Christians, Jews & Muslims and Global Foundation for Democracy, was hosted by Ukraine’s President Viktor Yushchenko. It included 99 influential leaders in government, religion, economics, media, & business with 33 representatives each from the Muslim, Jewish, & Christian communities of faith. 

April 26, 2007

Greetings, everybody, from America.  Today we have a challenge to condense a lifetime of learning about interpersonal and international relations into 10 minute speeches.  We are here for a very important purpose and at a critical point in human history.  We do not have the luxury of “waiting to see” what happens.  We must use time as a tool and act now.  Several years ago I left Washington D.C. having served 25 years in senior level positions in the administrations of 4 U.S. presidents.  I was planning to complete my service to my country hopefully with an Ambassadorial appointment but God had other plans which took me down a completely unexpected path.  In 2001, I stood on the ground in Netanya, Israel shortly after the Passover homicide bombing.  The carnage was unspeakable.  I looked down at my feet and saw the ground littered with case hardened nails which the terrorist had packed inside the  explosive device used in that attack.  I later learned that these nails are often coated in deadly poisons in order to maximize the degree of injury, pain, suffering and death.  From that moment on, I knew it was my destiny to do all within my power as an Evangelical Christian, with God’s help, to expose the hatred and evil behind such senseless acts of violence.   

We gather here today as Muslims, Jews and Christians seeking peace and healing for the betterment of mankind.   We are here today as a relatively small group with a big agenda and that being to take 3 different and often conflicting stories, the story of the Jew, the Muslim and the Christian, and perhaps create a 4th story, one which is not in conflict but rather one which is founded upon respect, peace and tolerance one for another.

To begin this process we must look at those attributes we have in common.  We all lay claim to Abraham as the father of our faiths.  However, there are 21st century people who have kidnapped Abraham’s greatness and smeared his ancient legacy with the blood of innocent people.  Their only contribution to the world is ethnic hatred, religious intolerance and the denial of basic human rights. Your presence at this conference shows that you recognize this disease.  Now we must collectively work to identify the cause and put forth a cure which will promote positive and peaceful relations on an international scale.  The spiritual power of faith is a mighty force which terrorists have recognized and harnessed for purposes of evil and destruction.  We, those of us in this room today, must harness this same energy for the good of the entire human race. We each have our own national and religious identity and we each believe with our whole hearts that our way is the right way.  Even so, we must learn to peacefully co-exist by respecting each other and our right to hold differing views and opinions and to maintain differing cultural and religious traditions.  We must welcome debate and not view it as a cause of division.  Healthy debates are a source of strength and not a cause of weakness. We must lay the foundation for tolerance by approaching it from a mature and thoughtful perspective rather than allow our emotions to lead the way.

Our world is a beautiful tapestry of cultures yet there are those who want to rip the tapestry apart and remake it into only one pattern. Those of us who live in relatively free societies must speak out against terrorism and the extremists who perpetrate acts of hatred and violence.  We must promote the sanctity of human life and religious reconciliation.  When we are faced with obstacles and struggles, we must learn to struggle with our minds and not with weapons of destruction.  Who and what we are in the world’s tapestry is not defined by how we look but rather by what is in our hearts.  The point of freedom is to use it.  The people of the civilized world must come together with a unified voice denouncing radicals and extremists who view human life as valueless and dispensable.  The people of the free world must speak out and act with courage.  The people of the unfree world are counting on us because they have been silenced by repressive regimes and lawless thugs.   

For peace to prevail, we must identify solid and willing partners to begin the reconciliation process.  We must create opportunities for open and honest dialogues building relationships based upon understanding and accepting that there will always be differences and that HOW we deal with our differences is what is important and not the mere fact that differences exist.  We are not part of a world made up of identical or even similar societies and for this we should be grateful.  Diversity is good provided it goes hand in hand with respect; a key ingredient in any peace process. Promoting positive and peaceful relations first requires that we take time to understand those who hold differing views and opinions.  We must define the common ground on which we stand acknowledging that all life regardless of cultural, religious or political differences, has meaning and value and that each people group is sacred. It is essential for us to agree that all people of the world are entitled to basic human rights and freedoms and we must see to it that our educational systems are teaching this to our children.  We must learn and also teach our children to esteem the value of every person in today’s world. 

This concept must be promoted in our families, in our churches, synagogues, temples and mosques.  Our children are the building blocks for a better world tomorrow and we each have a role to play in molding and shaping young minds for good and not for evil; for the preservation of life and not the destruction of life. Individuals and groups that call for the annihilation of any people or nation must be renounced and isolated.  I am referring to rogues such as the Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad who openly advocates the destruction of Israel and her people. 

The time has come for the moderate Muslim world to speak out loudly, clearly and strongly against the radicals in their midst.  Enmity toward Israel must cease.  Israel must be recognized as a legitimate state sanctioned by the United Nations.

The Muslim faith does make room for those of other persuasions and those who understand this must speak out against those who have shown the world a different face; the face of extremists who have kidnapped Islam and twisted it for their own hateful purposes.  Reconciliation between Christians, Jews and Muslims is possible but it first requires a dedicated and unselfish desire to put the good of others ahead of our own interests and agendas.  We must embrace the concept of tolerance but be intolerant of evil.  We must have the courage to stand for what is right even when it takes us out of

our own comfort zones and maybe even into danger zones. I know, first hand, that reconciliation is not just an empty dream but is a very real possibility. 

Until quite recently, evangelical Christians and American Jews were the two religious communities in the United States that seemed to have the least in common and a mutual distrust. And yet today, the two communities are talking to each other, inviting each other into our churches and synagogues and sometimes our homes, even working together politically when our values and interests converge.

How did this happen? Well, that is much too long of a story to tell here. I want to share with you a personal story that might illustrate what I have expressed. In 2002 I started visiting Israel regularly with the goal of establishing a radio broadcast of news and analysis from Israel to the United States. The seed for this radio network, which is now worldwide, was planted that day in Netanya I told you about earlier.  One of the people I regularly interviewed was Bret Stephens, who was then the editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post and who is now a columnist with the Wall Street Journal. I think—in fact, I know—that he initially viewed me, as a Christian broadcaster, with much doubt, thinking that I had some kind of hidden financial or religious agenda. But, with my motives being pure and transparent, eventually I won his trust and we became, and remain, good friends.  And one of the things he later said to me was, “Earl, the less you asked of me the more I was prepared to give you.” I think there are three lessons in this story for our discussions when we talk about the subject of  building bridges between different religious communities.

The first lesson is, too often we approach each other with big demands, big grievances and big expectations thinking that those demands should be settled first, before relationships can begin. But in interfaith dialogue, as in interpersonal dialogue, what often really counts are good manners, tact, modesty and truthfulness. The second lesson is to be pro-active: Don’t wait for an invitation to talk, but extend that invitation yourself. Take the first step. Demonstrate that you are serious about dialogue—and committed to it. The Jewish community did not come to me; I went to them. The third lesson is, before you come to conclusions about a different faith, or different people, try to learn something about that faith and about its people. My opinions about Israel and her people are based on my having visited the country countless times and having lived there continuously for over a year. We need to create opportunities to truly get to know one another, rather than relying on old prejudices and biased media reports and perceptions skewered by the political needs of the moment.

In closing, let us not use our resources to simply build our own communities, but let us always keep an open heart to using such resources to improve the basic living conditions for the worldwide community. It is up to our families and religious communities to begin the arduous task of teaching human value and tolerance. Here is where success or failure will either move forward or falter.  There is no substitute for understanding.  Now is the time for us to act by speaking out in favor of freedom, human rights and a democratic way of life.  The family of nations must not allow the world to be bullied into appeasing the terrorist agenda.  Someone once said, “Mercy toward evil is cruelty toward the innocent.” Let us be merciful toward the innocent by refusing to appease evil. Time will not heal our divisions. 

We must practice loving one another and praying for one another and we must all humble ourselves before the mystery of God.  Thank you.

"He Broadcasts a Love of Israel"
by Arlene Bridges-Samuels   Jerusalem Post  March 2006 - jpost.com

click here to view .pdf file

 

Cox & Kinchlow Attend Israeli Ambassador Farewell

Seven hundred Christians and Jews gathered on January 14 for a gala dinner celebration at the Capital Hilton Hotel in Washington, DC to bid farewell to Anne and Danny Ayalon, Israels Ambassador to the United States, and welcome Sallai and Noa Meridor, Ayalon’s successor. The gowns and glitter furnished a backdrop for shining moments throughout the evening with many streams flowing in a river of appreciation for the Ayalons’ five years of service and standing in unity for the state of Israel. Love of Israel and the Embassy of Israel sponsored the event with co-sponsors The International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, (ICEJ) Salem Communications (WAVA Radio), High Adventure Broadcasting, Capital City Church, and the Healing Rooms of DC.

The chatty crowd quieted as Rep. Tom Lantos (D-CA), spoke eloquently about the past and the present world climate of anti-Semitism. Lantos, the only Holocaust survivor serving in Congress, disclosed, "l assumed naively that the chapter [Holocaust] of human history would be a dark nightmare moment of the past but that is not the case." He continued, "We have a new dimension, a convergence of historic anti-Semitism coupled with Muslims and the intellectual elite. This makes for a powerful cocktail yet, we have a powerful antidote [for anti-Semitism]; the decent Christians who learned the lessons of the Holocaust. The antidote to Auschwitz is the Christian community in the United States. We cannot tell you how precious you are to us. We deeply love and respect you more than youll ever know because you represent the finest of civilization.”

Rep. Lantos then said, “All Christians, please stand."

Christians don't advocate for Israel to gain accolades, yet when we stood, the sustained applause from Jewish hands settled on us like a crown.  With a noticeable contingent of evangelicals, including ICEJ Executive Director Rev. Malcolm Hedding, Earl Cox, (founder- Israel Always) and Ben Kinchlow, Co-hosts of Front Page Jerusalem Radio, the historic moment culminated 25 years of work and relationship-building between evangelical Christians and the state of Israel, pioneered in part by the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem who planted a small seed of Christian Zionism in 1980. (Most world embassies had vacated Jerusalem in protest when modern day Israel declared Jerusalem as her eternal Capital).

Since then, Christian Zionism has grown exponentially with organizations and movements taking root all across the world. While the words "Christian Zionism" represent new terminology, the foundations of the movement are even older than the Western Wall beginning with Gods words in Genesis 12:3, "I will bless those who bless you..." The Old and New Covenants are peppered with Gods clarion call, which reminds non-Jews to stand with the "apple of His eye." The gala celebration represented a zenith in the mountain range of cooperation now rising between Jews and Evangelicals, significant among them, the Knesset’s Christian Allies Caucus.

Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD) the new US House Majority Whip, and Roy Blunt (R-MO) stood on the platform, each recognizing their personal friendship and Israel, one of their common causes. Hoyer noted, “Our support of Israel honors our own heritage.” Blunt, House Minority Whip, added, “I can always count on the US Congress to support Israel.” Blunt also referenced a medieval Jewish poet who wrote, “ My heart is in the East but I live in the West.”

Other speakers on the podium included Malcolm Hoenlein, Vice President of the Conference of Presidents of Major Jewish Organizations, television and church Pastor Paula White, and Gary Bauer, President of American Values. Bauer commented, “lsrael and the United States are joined at the heart. Our alliance is built on shared values not oil.”

President George W. Bush sent a letter of appreciation to Ambassador Ayalon along with video messages from Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, former Israeli Prime Ministers Peres, Netanyahu, and Barak and John Hagee, founder of Christians United for Israel. (CUFI).

In his speech, His Excellency Ayalon disclosed, "When I became Ambassador, Prime Minister Sharon said, Reach out to the Christians, they are our friends. I see after five years a true coalition of Christians and Jews working together. This is what I want our [wife Anne] legacy to be. We will be YOUR ambassadors now in Israel."

Unsurpassed artists including Israeli violinist and Grammy Award winner, Miri Ben Ari, Broadway performer, Dudu Fisher, and vocalist Robert Stearns, founder of Eagles Wings, filled the banquet hall with the beauty of music. In a symbolic gesture of unity, Robert Stearns and Miri Ben Ami performed the respective national anthems of the two nations. Ben Ami’s violin vibrated with an amazing stringed interpretation of “The Star Spangled Banner” while Stearns tied the bow on the historic evening with an inspiring vocal rendition of the Israeli National Anthem. The Israeli-born Ben Ami and the evangelical Stearns’ performances will long be remembered.

REPLACING HISTORY WITH A LIE IS LIKE LABELING IRANIAN DICTATOR AHMADINEJAD A PEACEMAKER

International Christian broadcaster is calling for Christians to pray and act.

FOR RELEASE AM, December 15, 2006

We must not remain silent!

"Replacing History With a Lie Is Like Labeling Iranian Dictator Ahmadinejad a Peacemaker," says international Christian broadcaster, Earl Cox. This week’s gathering of well-known hate mongers in Tehran fully documents the evil that lurks in the minds of barbarians bent on replacing truth with lies. Iranian despot Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, white supremacist David Duke and others like them represent the resurrection of Hitler's worldview and intentions. However, Ahmadinejad is potentially far more dangerous than Hitler. His hatred stems from deep-seated religious convictions, not misguided racial theories, and he is close to having what Hitler lacked – nuclear weapons. The denial of the Holocaust by this malevolent man and his drive to perpetrate a new one are tangible examples that there is indeed good and evil in this world.

"The dark world in which Ahmadinejad and Duke operate is the breeding ground for Satan’s lies. Unless Christians and the rest of the civilized world wake up and respond immediately with a loud outcry against the spread of this demonic movement, our world will be in serious trouble. Unless those in the pulpits who represent Light and Truth speak out against the deceitful spin being spewed from the mouths of those who embrace evil over good, the world is doomed to spiral rapidly downward into darkness," says Earl Cox.

Cox, co-host of the worldwide radio broadcast known as Front Page Jerusalem, is also founder of a Christian movement called Israel Always which focuses on bringing Christians and Jews together in support of Israel (israelalways.org). Cox, who additionally served in senior-level positions through four presidential administrations, says: “I trust and pray that Christian leaders will not let such appalling denial of the Holocaust go unanswered but rather will address it head on, with boldness and strength, affirming the painful truth and lessons of the Nazi atrocities perpetrated against God’s chosen people, the Jews.”

Cox emphasizes that whereas men like Duke and Ahmadinejad are willing to use deceit, violence and even mass murder to accomplish their purposes, Bible-believing Christians know that “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds" (2 Corinthians 10:4, KJV). “Therefore, I call on all those who follow Christ to pray and act,” says Cox. “Pray for Israel and against the resurgence of Hitlerism ... organize prayer gatherings ... write letters to your local newspaper ... and call your congressmen and senators.

“We have the power to stop evil men like Ahmadinejad, but it will take moral courage and unwavering determination,” says Cox. “There is no alternative. We must war in prayer and quickly pursue all lawful means to drive back this darkness.”

Convergence Summit Challenges Prescription for Peace in Middle East  "The key is education."

October 25, 2006   Cox and Kinchlow, the noted international Christian broadcasting team of Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network, joined a host of Israeli dignitaries at the inaugural gathering of the Convergence Summit held for three days in Savannah, GA. The summit, a brainchild of Orly Benny Davis of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, featured expert Jewish leaders and Israeli dignitaries focusing on developing strategies to confront terrorism in the United States, Israel and around the world.

When addressing the delegates, Earl Cox, founder of Front Page Jerusalem asserted, "Those who love freedom and democracy must stand with Israel spiritually and with action. Our words must translate into action-filled advocacy." Ben Kinchlow referred to the importance of Muslims joining Christians and Jews saying, "Every moderate Muslim must speak out against radical Islam if they truly believe that the radicals are ‘hijacking their religion.’” Kinchlow served as co-host of The 700 Club for 20 years prior to joining Cox at Front Page Jerusalem.

Other speakers at the summit included Dr. Ra’anan Gissin, MK Dr. Arieh Eldad, MK Limor Livnat, Rabbi Eliezer Ben Yehuda, and Dr. Yuval Stienitz. The distinguished delegates left the Convergence Summit re-energized to demand truth from the media. Delegates also plan to ask for positive action from the U.S. government to develop and institute educational programs aimed at combating the ever-growing disease of terrorism. Israeli MK Dr. Arieh Eldad suggested that governments around the world, including both Israel and the US, have misdiagnosed the spreading disease of terror. He pointed out, "We are therefore treating terrorism with the wrong medicine, the medicine of appeasement. Appeasement hasn't worked in the past and will not work in the future."

Cox and Kinchlow plan on continuing to organize Jewish and Christian rallies around the United States under the auspices of Israel Always, founded by Cox, as an advocacy movement of Christians to stand with Israel. Israel Always promotes a broad range of activities designed to unite Jews and Christians as they face their common enemy of terror. Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio is considered a fair and effective tool in educating audiences around the world by presenting the Israeli viewpoint thereby combating media bias that is often so prevalent against Israel. For additional information log on to www.IsraelAlways.org.

Pictured below are Earl Cox, SC Congressman Joe Wilson, Ben Kinchlow and from Israel, MK Dr. Arieh Eldad ick here for a link to YNet News-Yedioth Ahronoth-in Israel for an article penned by Earl Cox and published on Aug. 12, 2006

 http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3290018,00.html

 

Christian Broadcaster Encourages Prayer for Ariel Sharon

Cox says Prayer the Most Powerful Tool in the Christian Arsenal

October 15, 2006  Concluding a 12 day visit to the Holy Land, International Christian Broadcaster, Earl Cox, urges Christians worldwide to practice what they preach by praying for former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and the Sharon family. “Prayer is the Christian’s most powerful tool,” says Cox, “and it should be taken very seriously.” Last year Cox maintained an 8 hour daily prayer vigil at the Western Wall in Jerusalem for 365 consecutive days which concluded with a final prayer gathering in the courtyard entrance to Hadassah Hospital a few days after Sharon lapsed into the coma back in January. This most recent trip to Israel by Cox to pray for Ariel Sharon marks Cox’s second such prayer vigil since January. Back in March, Cox traveled to Israel specifically to pray for Ariel Sharon at Tel HaShomer Hospital in Tel Aviv where Sharon is being cared for my medical staff and his family. Cox fasted and prayed for 8 hours that day and was joined by Christians around the world who simultaneously prayed and fasted from their respective locations. Shortly before beginning this 3rd prayer vigil for Mr. Sharon, Cox talked with Sharon’s son, Omri, delivering a message of hope and encouragement to the Sharon family. Cox expressed to Omri that the fate of his father rests in God’s hands and that as long as there is breath, there is hope. Cox assured Omri and the family that he would continue to pray for Mr. Sharon and will encourage Christians around the world to do the same. Omri thanked Cox and expressed his sincere appreciation to all those who have stood by the Sharon family during this difficult time.

In addition to praying for Ariel Sharon on this recent trip to Israel, Cox also participated in the International Christian Embassy’s annual Feast of Tabernacles celebration which draws thousands of Christians to Israel each year from every continent. This celebration is the largest single tourist event in Israel. Cox, who founded Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network (FPJ) several years ago and donated it to the ICEJ, moderated a live panel discussion during the Feast which featured prominent Israeli newsmakers, commentators and government officials such as Isi Leibler, David Horovitz and Daniel Seaman.

A former thirty-year veteran of politics having served four US Presidents in Washington D.C., Earl Cox has dedicated the last six years to efforts benefiting the Jewish state. He and his partner, Ben Kinchlow, recognized internationally as the former co-host of the popular Christian television program known as The 700 Club, are currently organizing the first annual Christian / Jewish pilgrimage to Poland and Israel scheduled for May 2007.

Earlier this year, Cox launched a movement called Israel Always which promotes modern alliances and unity between Christians and Jews. Cox has become known as one of the most ardent and outspoken Christian supporters of Israel. To date, Cox and Kinchlow have held six Israel Always rallies in the U.S. with additional rallies being planned for 2007.

INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN BROADCASTERS, COX & KINCHLOW, ANNOUNCE

FIRST OF ITS KIND PILGRIMAGE TO ISRAEL

Jews and Christians to Join Hands in Solidarity Tour of Poland and Israel in May 2007

Middle East Christian commentators, Earl Cox and Ben Kinchlow, recently announced during their appearance on the Trinity Broadcast Network, an upcoming Christian pilgrimage tour to Poland and Israel. This tour, the first of its kind, will take place in May 2007 and include both Jews and Christians and represents another of the broadcasters’ efforts to unify the two communities. Cox and Kinchlow work closely together on several additional efforts in support of Israel which include Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network and their “Evening for Israel” rallies held in cities across the United States. Details of the unique May 2007 tour, which will include a stop in Poland on the way to Israel, will be released on Cox’s IsraelAlways.org website as they become available likely toward the middle of November.

While in Atlanta for the TBN television special, Cox and Kinchlow paid a visit to the Israeli Consulate to meet with Israel’s new Consul General to the Southeastern United States, Ambassador Reda Mansour. A Christian delegation, comprised of supporters of Israel from various locations around the Southeast, accompanied Cox and Kinchlow to the meeting. The purpose was to assure the Israeli dignitary of their ongoing commitment and support for Israel and the Jewish people.

During the Trinity Broadcasting Network program called “Praise the Lord,” Kinchlow introduced several special Jewish guests from among the studio audience who were there representing the Atlanta Jewish Federation. The studio audience was 300 strong; most of whom were Christians who claimed a God-inspired love for Israel and the Jewish people. “Praise the Lord” is broadcast to 600 cable providers across the US and to 80 nations worldwide via 47 satellites. The program theme focused on Jews and Christians uniting to support Israel. When asked why he supported the Jewish people Cox replied, “First, God loves them. They are the apple of His eye. The Bible tells us it’s the right thing to do as Christians.” Since 2000, Cox-a former high-level official serving four US Presidents in Washington, DC-has devoted himself to initiatives on behalf of the nation of Israel. He founded Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network as well as Israel Always; a movement dedicated to forging modern alliances between two peoples springing from the same ancient faith. Kinchlow is known across the world as the former popular co-host of The 700 Club as well as for his personal efforts on behalf of the people of Israel.

Each week Cox, Kinchlow and David Parsons of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, co-host the international radio broadcast known as Front Page Jerusalem. This unique program is a weekly news magazine featuring interviews with top Israeli leaders, along with information and commentary about current issues. The program has grown into the most listened-to Christian broadcast emanating from Jerusalem. It is produced in conjunction with the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, the largest Christian Zionist organization in the world.

INTERNATIONAL BROADCASTER CALLS FOR MODERATE MUSLIMS TO SPEAK OUT

"We must all take a stand against terrorism." Earl Cox

“If moderate Muslims think extremists are hijacking their religion, they need to speak out against it,” asserts international Christian broadcaster Earl Cox. The founder of Israel Always goes on to encourage Muslims to join Jews and Christians in rallying against terrorists. “These terrorists not only want to destroy the Christian and Jewish religions, it seems they are destroying Islam as well. We welcome peace-loving Muslims to stand in solidarity with us against these extremists. There are a billion Muslims in the world. Surely millions of moderate Muslims can speak out.”

Cox, who launched Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network (FPJ) in 2002, co-hosts the weekly broadcast with Ben Kinchlow in Virginia and David Parsons in Jerusalem. FPJ, a fast paced news magazine featuring Israel’s top movers and shakers, is now the most listened to Christian broadcast emanating from Jerusalem. Cox and Kinchlow (popular former 700 Club host), are leading the charge along with other Christian organizations to gather unified momentum against rising anti-Semitism. Cox and Kinchlow will appear this evening, Tuesday, September 19th, on Trinity Broadcasting Network between 10 PM and Midnight EST to offer their expert commentary and insights concerning Israel and the Christian biblical mandate to support the Jewish people.

These two Middle East commentators are inaugurating numerous initiatives on behalf of Israel. Along with the radio program, Cox and Kinchlow are staging Jewish / Christian rallies nationwide to emphasize the need for unity between the two communities. They will soon announce one of their newest initiatives which includes an upcoming special event which is certain to blossom into an annual pilgrimage to the Holy Land attracting thousands of participants. For additional information, log on to www.IsraelAlways.org.

Earl Cox Returns from 3-week Visit to Israel

Earl Cox returned August 22 from a three week visit to Israel where he and teams of Americans encouraged Israeli troops on the front lines, provided humanitarian aid to Israeli evacuees, and donated blood to the Israeli Red Cross.

 While In Israel, Channels 1 and 2 interviewed Cox, an international Christian broadcaster and founder of Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network and Israel Always, a pro-Israel advocacy group promoting unity between the Christian and Jewish communities. On Israeli television, Cox spoke a message of hope: “We are here as Christians to say that we stand with you in a time of war.”

 Yediot Ahronoth, a leading Israeli newspaper asked Cox to pen an Op-Ed article and Ha’aretz and the Jerusalem Post wrote articles about the Israel Always group who ventured up to the front lines during the Hezbollah-Hamas War launched against Israel.  

Cox, who launched his pro-Israel initiatives in 2000 from his home in Charleston, SC, is well known in Israel and welcomed into the halls of Knesset and the Prime Minister’s Offices. He has self financed all his initiatives which include the world wide radio program, Israel Always rallies, congressional visits to encourage support of Israel, and a year long prayer vigil at Jerusalem’s Western Wall in 2005.

 His work will continue as he states, “The Bible encourages Christians to bless the Jewish people, the “apple of God’s eye” and that’s what I intend to do. It is more important than ever, in this climate of world terror, that Christians and Jews unite to maintain the freedoms and joys that our ancient faiths provide.”

 Post from Kathleen Cox-Northern Israel August 17, 2006

      Here's a report on the recent trip Earl and I took to the far north of Israel to visit towns  and villages located right on the Lebanese border.  We were accompanied by two other people who also have a mandate from God to love the people – Jews and Arabs alike.  

As you know, Israel is now in a state of “cease fire” so this trip was significantly different from the trip a group of us took two weeks ago where rockets were literally flying over the road and we were the only vehicle on the road.  Even so, not one of us felt fearful except for our Israeli driver who probably thought we were all crazy or else we truly believed that God was in complete control.  I suspect he had to conclude it was the latter because of the manner in which we conducted ourselves in the face of such danger being determined to show love and support to the people and the soldiers.

The purpose of this recent trip was to visit with local officials and citizens to determine how we could be of real assistance as the people return to their homes and begin rebuilding their lives.  We left Jerusalem with a van loaded with food and household products and off we went prepared to meet some of the various needs we expected to encounter.  We felt the best way to determine the needs of each community was to talk with the local officials.  The Mayor of Kiryat Shmona, the town which took about 1/3 of all the Hezbollah rocket hits, talked about the coming severe economic impact on the local economy.  He tells the story of the two main factories in Kiryat Shmona having moved their equipment to Tel Aviv to prevent damage.  There is now fear that these factories may not return to Kiryat Shmona.  If this happens, how will the people who depended on their employment in these two factories make a living?  In addition, how will this depressed town possibly be able to rebuild the school in time for the first semester to begin in September?

 One leg of this journey took us into an Arab Bedouin village located high up on a mountain directly across the valley from Lebanon. Fortunately for us, the owner and driver of the van in which we were traveling holds a doctorate degree in ancient Semitic languages and happens to be fluent in Arabic. He also has a heart for the Arabs and especially the Bedouins so he understands how to work among these people.  Instead of seeking out the local “elected” town official, he proceeded to ask for the home of the local “sheik.”  We found this person and visited with him and his family for more than an hour.  We discovered that three people from his village had been killed by rocket fire but he also proudly shared with us pictures of his sons who are presently serving in the IDF.  This was quite an educational experience for me and also for Earl.   

 We all know the Israelis as a whole are very resilient people but still they are not superhuman.  They need the support of the Christian community now more than ever.  We must not allow the terrorists to stop us from traveling to the Holy Land.  All the people will suffer if this happens.  We must help undergird the Israeli economy by continuing to organize trips and tours to the Holy Land. Now is not the time to pull back.  Now is the time to push forward with determination knowing that God is in control and that HE will bless those who bless Israel.

 Below are several pictures that provide a flavor of our trip...

 


Visit with an Arab Bedouin family at the
local sheik’s house.


Interview with Mayor of Kiryat Shmona,
Haim Barbibay
   


Loading up supplies for trip to the north of Israel


Delivering supplies to a family in need.
   


Apt. building in
Kiryat Shmona
w/ bomb shelter


Rocket went through the roof of a house in Kiryat Shmona. Note the left hand corner
of the house
   


Damage done to a car hood from a Katyusha
rocket loaded with nails and ball bearings. 
 Imagine what this does to a human body
 if it can do this to metal.
   


Earl Cox picking up nails left on a playground from a rocket which had exploded which was still embedded in the ground.  Note the scorch marks around Earl.
 


Katyusha rocket exploded in playground in Israeli town near Lebanese border.
-


And life goes on…

AMERICAN CHRISTIANS RETURN SAFELY FROM SOLIDARITY TRIP TO ISRAELI WAR ZONE
International Christian Broadcaster Earl Cox asserts, "Christians must express solidarity now with our ally Israel."
A group of 27 Americans will return to US today after traveling to Israel to express Christian solidarity with the Nation of Israel. The group included representatives from Oregon, New Mexico, Colorado, Arkansas, Kentucky, Georgia, Florida and South Carolina. The group, led by international Christian broadcaster, Earl Cox, founder of Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network and Israel Always, carried this message to Israel: "You have friends in the evangelical Christian community in the US. We support your war against terror. We share a common goal to preserve our freedoms."
 
The group shared their message in many venues. At an Orthodox Jewish center, full of elderly widows, who escaped northern Israel, their eyes filled with tears of gratitude. Later, Benny Elon, a member of the Knesset, left an emergency meeting to brief the group. Elon stated, "I am amazed that you came to Israel at such a dangerous time. Thank you for standing with us." The Israel Always team also traveled north to Haifa to visit Rambam Hospital where rockets had landed nearby. At the bedsides of wounded civilians and Israeli soldiers, they shared their message of friendship and commitment. At a bomb shelter for about 100 children, the group distributed toys, smiles, and hugs. The Mayor of Haifa welcomed them as well in his offices with a briefing and reception. He expressed his heartfelt thanks stating, "Your presence is giving us strength in tough times."
 
After traveling to the deserted streets of Tiberias, stopping for a welcome by the Mayor's office, the group pressed on to visit Israeli soldiers manning tanks and artillery guns defending the towns of Kiryat Shemona and Metulla on the Lebanese border. As Katyusha rockets fell around them, they gave small American flags to the appreciative soldiers who proudly stuck them in their pockets. "Our purpose was to assure these embattled young soldiers that America stands with Israel, and that we care about them," said Cox. "We prayed for their protection in the Name of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob."
 
Hours before departing from Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, the group donated blood at Magen David Adom, Israel's Red Cross. As they return, the broadcaster and his group have another message they want to share with American Christians "Don't cancel your tours. Go to Israel to show your Christian support.  
You don't have to go to the front lines. Go to Jerusalem."

AMERICAN CHRISTIANS VISIT WAR ZONE 
 ENCOURAGE ISRAELI SOLDIERS AND CITIZENS
 POSTED FROM JERUSALEM, ISRAEL
 Braving barrages of Katyusha rocket fire near the front lines of the  war between the terrorist group Hezbollah and the nation of Israel, a  group of more than a dozen American Christians from across the United  States spent 24 hours near Israel's northern border with Lebanon  bringing a message of support to civilians and soldiers alike.
 Led by international broadcaster Earl Cox, founder of Front Page  Jerusalem and Israel Always, the group encouraged residents at  several kibbutzim and restaurants, interviewed top military and  police officials and met with Israel's national press director,  Daniel Seaman.
 But their most exciting — and enjoyable — venture was visiting  Israeli soldiers manning tanks and artillery guns to defend the towns  of Kiryat Shemona and Metulla.  "Our purpose was to assure these embattled young soldiers that  America stands with Israel, and that we care about them," said Cox.  "So we gave each one a miniature American flag and prayed for their  protection in the Name of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob."
 The unique outreach came to an end only when numerous Katyusha  rockets began raining down on the immediate area, whereupon the group  headed back to Jerusalem to rejoin the rest of their larger entourage.  All but Cox and his wife will return to the U.S. on Sunday. A second group arrives from the U.S. this coming week.

American Christians Donating Blood for Israel Defense Force

A group of 27 Americans from all across the U.S. arrived in Israel earlier this week to say to the nation at war, "You have friends in the Christian world." They are showing their commitment by donating blood the day they leave the beleaguered nation. The group, called Israel Always, is led by international Christian broadcaster Earl Cox, who also founded Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network.

Israel Always is responding to a shortage in the Israel blood bank due to the war launched against them by Hezbollah and Hamas three weeks ago. On Sunday, Aug. 6, in Jerusalem, the group will line up at Magen David Adom - Israel's Red Cross - to donate blood.

Cox explains, "It's time for Christians to stand with Israel and our Jewish brothers and sisters in the hard times. Donating our blood is one way we can make our friendship and commitment known."

Israel Always is working alongside the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem to send out a call to Christians in Israel and worldwide to stand with the nation. The blood drive is only one of many initiatives.

In the week leading up to the blood drive, Cox and his Israel Always team traveled from Jerusalem to Haifa to Tiberias. Their travels included Rambam Hospital in Haifa, where they visited wounded Israeli soldiers and gave out toys to children in a bomb shelter. The mayor of Haifa and the spokesperson for the mayor of Tiberias both welcomed the group and expressed their gratitude for the encouragement from the Christian group.

As Haifa's Mayor Yonah said, "You are helping our morale. The bombings have left us shocked. Eleven of our citizens have been killed."

Cox and his team also traveled to Kfar Blum in northern Israel, just a few miles from the heavily bombarded Kiryat Shmona. They visited IDF soldiers near the front lines, giving them small American flags and words of friendship and commitment.

The IDF Spokesman, Olivier Rafowicz, gave the group a briefing in Rosh Pina in the Hula Valley near the fighting. He expressed his appreciation for the group traveling so deep into northern Israel and commented, "Israel cannot lose a war or we are destroyed. We need peace for making freedom. We need Christians to be Israeli ambassadors abroad."

Lines from the Front
August 3, 2006   Filed by Arlene Bridges-Samuels, Israel Always


Our Israel Always team traveled north today. Rolling into Tiberias, located on the Sea of Galilee, we were all saddened to note the empty streets, the lifeless playgrounds, and the locked hotels. August usually finds the streets teeming with tourists eating St. Peter's fried fish and standing in awe a few miles away  at the Capernaum Synagogue where Rabbi Jesus taught. The Hezbollah war has caused almost a million Israelis to flee their cities for bomb shelters and cities in the central and southern Israel. Prior to a delicious lunch on the Sea of Galilee served by grateful waiters happy to see us, the Mayor of Tiberias sent his spokesperson Yael Eran Pinian, to thank us for our visit to the forlorn city. The Mayor was involved in an emergency food distribution effort to citizens remaining in his city. Eran presented us with Tiberias pins and a flag of the city.
After lunch, we traveled farther north to Rosh Pina, meeting very little traffic on the  highways. We stopped in the small town to meet with the Spokesman for the IDF, Oliver Rafowicz, who traveled from the front lines to brief us. It is clear from his remarks that Hezbollah is fighting to die, looking to die and wanting desperately to take every Israeli with them. The fact that Hezbollah is using their own civilians as human shields is impeding the Israeli forces as they strive to conduct the war in the most humane way possible.  The IDF Colonel pointed out, "Hezbollah is happy for war and violence. We want peace." During his briefing, air raid sirens cut through the beautiful summer afternoon causing us to go inside to seek shelter in a close-by restaurant. We heard the heavy thud of nearby bombs and managed to stay calm despite racing hearts and quick prayers 

After the IDF briefing, 13 members of the team, six of them from Charleston, SC, Earl Cox's hometown, pushed farther north via taxis, to Kfar Blum kibbutz, three short miles from Kiryat Shemona, one of the Israeli cities which has suffered the most intense bombardment. As I write tonight, the team is huddling in the kibbutz hotel listening to nearby artillery fire and rocket bombardments. Their sense of humor, prayers, and courage are intact as they pray in Kfar Blum and the other half of the team prays here.

We have talked to a good number of IDF soldiers today who have expressed heartfelt gratitude with tears in their eyes that we would come to express our support in such a visible way. The words used by many of them are, "Impressive." "You give us strength."  


Tomorrow, the team will  give small American flags to soldiers near Kiryat Shemona and return around mid-afternoon before Shabbat begins. The other half of our team, back in Jerusalem, continues our prayers for the IDF, Israel, and of course, our friends who are with them on this night. Several members of our Jerusalem team returned to the Western Wall tonight to offer those prayers. 
Yesterday, we spent many combined hours at the Western Wall with thousands of Israelis thronging there to participate in Tish B 'Av, the days of mourning. We heard many laments, scripture readings, and prayers as we participated with them silently. Each team member has more than one story to share of meaningful encounters with Israelis. Each encounter is filled with the gratitude and teary eyes of Jewish people who are first surprised, then grateful for our presence in their nation during time of war. The fact that we traveled here on purpose in time of war is making a clear statement of commitment.
We are grateful to report as well that Earl was interviewed on Israel's Channel 1 and Channel 2 on Wednesday. He clearly spoke his message, the same message we are spreading everywhere we can. "Evangelical Christians stand with the Jewish people. Terror against the Jewish nation is terror against Christians." Earl is also encouraging all Christians to come to Israel rather than cancel their tour plans. "Now is the time to come," is his clear exhortation.  
On Sunday, we will express our commitment in another way. Earl and our team of 27 has launched a blood drive with the help of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem to ask for blood donations for the IDF. We're encouraging other Christians in the city to join us. Israel Always is responding to a shortage in the Israel blood bank due to the war. The group will line up at Magen David Adom-Israel's Red Cross-to donate blood on Sunday, August 6 in Jerusalem.
Earl Cox explains, "It's time for Christians to stand with Israel and our Jewish brothers and sisters in the hard times. Donating our blood is one way we can make our friendship and commitment known." 
Since tomorrow is Shabbat, I may not post but I will do my best to do so on Saturday. Keep our team, Israel Always, and the Jewish people in your prayers.

 Lines from the Front  Aug. 3, 2006 

Filed by Carol Hubbard, from the Northern Border   KIRYAT SHMONA, Israel

 Thirty-five of us — both Israel Always team and staff from the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem- left Jerusalem this morning for a trip to the Galilee — and Tiberias, in particular.  After weeks of war, the usually bustling Tiberias (a very popular resort town right on the shores of the Lake of Galilee) was like a ghost town. A representative from the mayor's office greeted us. After updates and lunch (plus some shopping in the Galilee Experience to help them with their strained finances), we headed further north to meet with IDF Spokesman Col. Olivier Rafowicz at a small restaurant in the beautiful town of Rosh Pina founded by Russian Jewish émigrés in the early 1900s.  We waited in the small outside courtyard of the restaurant; but shortly after Col. Rafowicz arrived, air raid sirens went off and we had to move inside. We could hear the distant sounds of Israeli artillery fire as he spoke. He gave a moving and articulate explanation of why Israel must win this war — and why, indeed, this is a battle between a culture of life and a culture of death. 

As Col. Rafowicz and the two officers who accompanied him hurried off, Earl gathered all of us together quickly to say that he and other leaders felt that we were to head north to the front lines; but that due to the very real danger, no one should go unless they were certain that God was calling them to go. Fourteen of our group decided to go to the front lines and the remainder of the group returned to Jerusalem to be our prayer coverage there (and truly, this was an assignment they fulfilled admirably). Our bus driver was not willing to go further, so he and his bus rolled away with the entourage of Jerusalem-bound prayer warriors, while we waited at the restaurant to find out what transportation would be available. Our only option for going north was to find two taxis (or one large van) willing to take us, and only one or two people had brought an overnight bag with them.

 Seldom in my life have I felt such a profound and unshakable peace as I did at that point. The restaurant owner and her staff were deeply moved by our explanations as to why we were there. They were astonished at everyone's determination to pay far more for our beverages than what was owed. The owner shared during an interview Earl conducted with her for Front Page Jerusalem Radio, "I used to be part of the far left, until this [war]. Now I see that talking [with Hamas and Hezbollah] will not bring peace." Near the end of the interview, though, she broke down when speaking of her son, Yepta (Jepthah). "He called just a few minutes ago, before I sat down with you," she explained. "He wanted to let me know that he was headed over the border into Lebanon." Earl asked if we could pray for her and for Yepta. She agreed and we all gathered round her while Earl prayed. When he finished, her face was glowing — and as we walked out, all the employees were beaming at us. Then the taxis arrived at 6pm and we piled in.

 Talk about a wild ride: Those guys drove like crazy men. Fortunately, we only had to endure about a half-hour of that before arriving at Kfar Blum, a kibbutz guesthouse just southeast of Kiryat Shmona, managed by a childhood friend of Mark Cohen’s. (Mark is a Jewish friend who accompanied the group to Israel and came with us to Kfar Blum)

 All of us were prepared for the possibility of having to spend the night in bomb shelters or "wherever," but we walked into an incredibly lovely guesthouse where a number of the media were staying and where we enjoyed true European-style hospitality. We certainly are not suffering — other than not having clean clothes to change into. We were housed in sparkling clean rooms with coffee-tea service, bottled water and packages of dates — and the price also included a buffet dinner and a full breakfast. And was the food heavenly!

 And what a beautiful area … I fell in love with it. We were now in the ancient tribal lands of Naphtali and Manasseh. The best comparison I can think of is some of the inland areas of southern California (where I grew up): It's a mountainous area with broad valleys filled with orchards and agricultural crops, eucalyptus trees (all planted by the Jews in the last 50 years), rhododendron bushes and dairy cattle. The architecture of the buildings reminds me of Eastern Europe, with a little Spanish influence thrown in. Each of the three towns we visited was a delight — clean, beautifully (even artistically) designed, with very friendly residents. I had a real sense of deja-vu, perhaps because so much of it reminded me of certain California coastal towns.

 From this point on, though, it was clear that "Dorothy was no longer in Kansas." The boom of artillery was continual — and a few have been so powerful that the windows have rattled. The Israeli kibbutz staff seemed utterly unaffected by it all, although Cindy — an ICEJ staff member with us — kept trying to herd us (rather unsuccessfully) away from the windows. The fact is that never in my life have I been in a situation that was so dangerous (from a human perspective) and yet where I felt such a total absence of fear. Frankly, as silly as it sounds, once or twice I actually tried to feel afraid, as I knew it was the appropriate response to where we were and what was happening (especially the next day), but it was simply impossible.  As far as I could tell, it was the same for our entire group, from 17-year-old Julian (whose wireless laptop became invaluable to everyone) on up. We experienced God’s extraordinary grace.

 After breakfast, we headed to Kiryat Shmona and basically camped out for several hours in the lobby of a local restaurant/guesthouse. During our time there, the air raid sirens went off. When we stood in the lobby wondering what to do next, the owner shooed us, like a mother hen, down to the basement. We hadn't even gotten to the stairs before we could hear the Katyushas hitting. There, Daniel Seaman, Director of Israel’s Government Press Office and good friend of Earl Cox’s gave us a briefing. Afterwards, we attended an international press conference at a playground in Metulla (north of Kiryat Shmona) where a Katyusha rocket is embedded — and where the police had brought several cars demolished by rockets. (The deadliness of these rockets lies not just in the impact but in the thousands of nails and ball bearings that are deliberately packed in to shred human flesh and buildings alike.) 

The press conference was very nicely done: The police commander and his staff from the northern district provided tables of beautiful kibbutz-grown fruit, plus cookies, pastries and bottles of water, along with a tented area to shield the press from the blazing sun. Before the commander began his presentation, we walked around shooting photos of the cars and the embedded Katyusha — and a member of the foreign press interviewed Earl, and then interviewed Brig. Gen. Dov Lutsky. Let me tell you: there isn't any other nation on earth I'd want standing with America than Israel. The Israelis are a peace-loving, life-honoring people; but when they must fight, there are no warriors that can match them except for our own. The police basically gave a rundown of what Israel has experienced in the last 25 days or so: More than 2,000 rockets have hit the north (and even as far south as the southern Galilee), and the police have been going day-and-night.

 Finally, it was time for what all of us were most eager to do: Head to the front lines, just outside of Metulla, to hand out miniature American flags brought along by Rosa Lampkin, one of Israel Always’ long term prayer warriors. By this time, we had one taxi-van just large enough for all of us to crowd into, plus one brave (and undoubtedly financially strapped) Israeli taxi driver. As we headed to where the artillery and tank lines were, things were quiet. 

We stopped at two different locations — and what an incredible time we had! The soldiers looked astonished, then delighted, to see this group of American civilians waving flags and shouting greetings, jumping out of the taxi-van. All of them spoke enough English for us to make it clear why we were there. And they loved getting the little American flags. Each time, we asked the soldiers if we could pray for their protection and they agreed. It was a very moving time of committing them to the care of "the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob" (the God of the Bible — our God!). We also shot some photos with them.  However, just as we had concluded the prayer for the second group (a young tank commander and two of his men), a loud explosion shook us and it was clear it was time to leave. We raced back to Kfar Blum to collect Mark Cohen. By the time we arrived, some 15-20 minutes later, the booms of incoming Katyushas were regular.

 An ICEJ staff spoke to the elderly desk clerk to express her concern. "Madame," he said graciously, taking both of her hands in his, "please do not worry. We have lived with this for most of the past 35 years." While he exemplified the courage and resolve of all the Israelis, it was appalling to think that they've needed to fight for their survival on a regular basis since the U.N. officially recognized them as a nation in 1948.

 On Mark’s strong recommendation, we made the decision to forego the usual route back to Jerusalem (through the Galilee), as he feared it would be too dangerous. So, we took the longer route along the Mediterranean side of Israel (down to Tel Aviv and then east to Jerusalem). We left in a literal hailstorm of Katyushas. As our taxi van zipped down the winding roads, and I was doing my best to snap photos as the nearby hillsides erupted in flames and acrid-smelling smoke quickly filled the valley.

Several members of our group estimated that 30 or 40 Katyushas hit just during the 15 minutes or so that we were driving out of the Kiryat Shmona area. Amazingly, all but one hit only uncultivated areas — and the one building that was hit appeared to be some kind of storage shed, not a home.

 Lines from the Front        August 1, 2006

Filed by Arlene Bridges-Samuels, Israel Always

Today in Israel dawned bright and beautiful in Jerusalem as our Israel Always team boarded a bus to travel two hours to Haifa. We arrived to a calm city since a cease fire was in place to accommodate the delivery of humanitarian aid. Haifa sits on a crescent shaped bay on the Mediterranean where the waters sparkle blue and the beaches and sand dunes reflect the hot sun. While a haze hung over the water, the breeze blew fresh and cooled us a bit. 

 We first stopped at Rambam hospital where David Ratner, Director of Public Affairs for the hospital greeted us along with other staff. After a brief video and talk outlining the work of Rambam during the 20 day war, our group fanned out all over the hospital visiting civilians as well as soldiers wounded by Hezbollah. Rambam is a thousand bed hospital, the largest in Northern Israel serving over a million Israelis and famous for its high level of care and research. Two Nobel prize winners house their research there. 

 Earl Cox stopped in to a room where a 24 year old IDF soldier, Gidon Goldenberg, lay with wounds that thankfully have a positive prognosis. While weak, he was able to talk. Earl has worn a special "Lion of Judah" pin for 3-4 years given to him by Prime Minister Ehud Olmert when he was Mayor of Jerusalem. The soldier's face filled with surprise as Earl took the pin from his lapel and pinned it on the soldier saying, "Young man, you deserve this far more than I for fighting for your nation' s freedom." When we left the room, we carried with us the memory of the smiles of Gidon and his mother. Others on our team visited a recent Russian immigrant, a civilian severely wounded in one of the rocket attacks. Her leg was amputated due to the severity of the wounds. Her quote really touched us. "Galina said, "I'm thankful to live in Israel even in dangerous times."

 Our next stop took us to the Municipality of Haifa building. The mayor of Haifa and his staff ushered us into a meeting room with a table set with drinks, cookies, crackers, and fruit. Mayor Yona Yahav greeted our group saying, "We are happy you can be with us. It helps our morale. Many of our 300,000 people are still in shelters. Today is a little better but most businesses and factories are closed." He went on to tell us that Haifa had not experienced so many bombs since 1948. "It is shocking an difficult for us. We have a city where Jews, Muslim, and Christian Arabs have lived in harmony." He described the Katuysha rockets raining down on Haifa from Hezbollah only 10-15 miles away. "These rockets are armed with thousands of bullets. When they explode they send the bullets out as far as 100 meters. Eleven of our citizens have been killed. These rockets are armed like the suicide bombers." When asked what Haifa needs, Mayor Yahav replied, "We need to totally dismantle Hezbollah ."

Lines from the Front    July 31, 2006 

Filed by Arlene Bridges-Samuels, Israel Always

Our Israel Always team, under the leadership of international Christian broadcaster, Earl Cox,  landed in Israel 24 hours ago. We have 27 on the team from all over the US including Georgia, Kentucky, Oregon, Arkansas, Florida, Colorado, and South Carolina. The ages range from 17-84.

 We spent the day today in Jerusalem visiting those displaced by the war at Ezrat Avot, a Senior Citizen/Community Center. Looking into the faces of 60, 70, and 80 year old women who fled northern Israel with only the clothes on their backs, is a moving experience. Their eyes filled with tears as we shared with them through a translator our purpose for coming....not as tourists but as Christian friends. The International Christian Embassy Jerusalem welcomed us later, sharing their excellent work for the last 26 years on behalf of the Jewish people and the nation of Israel. 

 A visit to the Knesset came later where Benny Elon, a member of Knesset, stepped away from an emergency meeting at the Knesset to spend 10 minutes with our group thanking us and updating us on the grave situation that Israel is facing with almost a million displaced from northern Israel, either in bomb shelters or who have migrated into more southerly locations in Israel. MK Elon and Earl Cox are personal friends. In the evening, many members of our IA team took a bus across town to pray at the Western Wall. 

 Tomorrow, we travel by bus to Haifa to visit Rambam Hospital where skillful Israeli doctors are treating IDF soldiers wounded in battle. We will also visit bomb shelters to encourage civilians who have spent 19 days now in and out of shelters. We'll pass out toys purchased today in Jerusalem to children to encourage them. Afterwards, we are scheduled to meet with the Mayor of Haifa, then hold a Press Conference. Our message to Israelis is simple: "You have Christian friends who stand with you in your time of trouble."  It is Mr. Cox's hope that Christians from all over the world will come to Israel to stand with the Jewish people.

 We ask that you pray without ceasing for Israelis as well as all others in the region.

Christians Fly to Israel To Show Support

July 29, 2006  On Sunday July 30 a group of 27 Christians will land in Israel in a show of unity with the Jewish people.  International Christian broadcaster, Earl Cox from Charleston, SC is leading the team who will stay in Israel July 29-August 7. They will visit with soldiers, with the wounded in hospitals and those living in bomb shelters. Cox founded Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network and Israel Always to promote unity between Christians and Jews by emphasizing their ancient faiths, modern alliances, and common enemies. Israel Always is sending the team of Christians under Cox’s leadership.

Cox asserts, “The recent incursions of Hezbollah and Hamas into Israel’s sovereign territory are a continuation of six years of acts of barbarism against Israeli civilians.”  Cox goes on to say, “The terrorist war against Israel and the Jewish people is a terrorist war against Christians.”  The Israel Always team includes Christians and Jews from all over the United States including South Carolina, Oregon, and Georgia. 

Roberta Combs, President of the Christian Coalition of America, applauded Cox for his fervent stand for Israel and pledged her full support, along with the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, (ICEJ) the largest Christian Zionist organization in the world. The ICEJ partners with Cox, who along with former 700 Club host Ben Kinchlow, co-hosts the global radio network.  The Israel Always team will post “Lines from the Front” daily at www.IsraelAlways.org. 

Since 2000, Cox-a thirty-year veteran in high level Washington posts-has been one of Israel’s strongest supporters in the Christian community.  This week he called on Christians world wide to join him in sending a message to the terrorists that their aggression against Israel has solidified Christian-Jewish ties. Cox said those wishing to donate funds to help displaced families should make checks payable to the Jerusalem Assistance Fund, P.O. Box 774, Mt. Pleasant, SC  29465. All donations go in their entirety to their intended purpose.  No salaries are paid to anyone.  This is an all-volunteer project.

Hamas and Hezbollah Rockets Against Israel Solidify

Christian / Jewish Support

July 28, 2006  An enthusiastic crowd of Christians and Jews gathered today before television cameras and reporters in front of the Holocaust Memorial in Marion Square in downtown Charleston, S.C. today promising financial and moral support for Israel.  International Christian broadcaster, Earl Cox, and his partner, Ben Kinchlow who is the former co-host of the popular Christian television program The 700 Club, called the launching of rockets into Israel by the Hezbollah and Hamas “acts of barbarism.”
     Since 2000, Cox has been one of Israel’s strongest supporters in the Christian community. Today he called on Christians world wide to join him in sending a message to the terrorists  that their aggression against Israel has solidified Christian-Jewish ties. “The Hezbollah,” he said, “miscalculated the consequences when they kidnapped Israeli soldiers. That was the kiss of death to the terrorists.” Today’s rally and news conference was one of many organized by Cox throughout the Bible Belt states of America which took place simultaneously. Cox and representatives of the Christian community from Oregon to South Carolina will soon depart for Israel where they will visit with soldiers, with the wounded in hospitals and those living in bomb shelters. Thousands of Christians from around the world have answered Cox’s call for prayers for Israel.


Ben Kinchlow & Earl Cox Hold Press Conf. in Charleston, SC
 

Christian Coalition of America Endorses Prayer Mission

to Israel

July 27, 2006    While the US State Department is warning Americans to shy away from travel to Israel, a group of American Christians is trying to get to Israel as soon as possible. Roberta Combs, President of the Christian Coalition of America, has fully endorsed international Christian broadcaster Earl Cox’s efforts to mobilize Christians to fly to Israel ASAP.  Combs comments, “Earl Cox has been on the leading edge of initiatives to underpin the nation of Israel. Israelis and Americans stand on the same Judeo-Christian foundation. We must express our support now.” 

     Cox, founder of Israel Always asserts, “The Israeli war on terror is our fight too. The terrorists hate Christians as much as Jews.”  Cox will hold a Press Conference on Thursday, July 27 at 11:00 AM EST in his hometown, Charleston, SC where he has spearheaded numerous initiatives on behalf of Israel uniting the Jews and Christians in his city and beyond. 

     Cox envisions Christians praying at the Western Wall in Jerusalem, Judaism’s holiest site. Cox will feel right at home at the Western Wall. Last year he lived in Jerusalem and mobilized hundreds of Christians in a prayer effort that lasted 365 days for eight hours daily.  He describes the weeklong trip to Israel as a “no-frills prayer and work trip to the Holy Land.” He’s encouraging Christians to delay their summer plans and show their support for the Jewish people instead. “We are all volunteers,” Cox explains, “doing what we do for Israel from our own finances. Even the travel agents I am working with are not charging us for their services.”

      Once the group of Christians lands in Israel, they will wear special armbands identifying them as Christians who have come to comfort and pray for the Jewish people. In addition to giving first person news broadcasts on the radio program he founded in Jerusalem-Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network-Cox also hopes to visit hospitals and encourage the hundreds of Israelis who have been wounded in the Hezbollah-Hamas attacks. Visits to Israeli bomb shelters are in the works as well. Almost one million Israelis have evacuated from Northern Israel abandoning their homes and business to escape Hezbollah rockets.

 “If you are interested in traveling with us to Israel, we have special airline fares and hotel reservations,” explains Cox.

  “TERRORIST WAR AGAINST ISRAEL IS  TERRORIST WAR AGAINST CHRISTIANS”

International Broadcaster Earl Cox

 US State Department Says “No”, Christians Say “Yes”

July 25 2006   Christians who support Israel are mobilizing as Israel’s Hamas-Hezbollah war looms larger, even as the US State Department issues a travel warning for Israel.  International Christian Broadcaster, Earl Cox is urging Christians across America to join him in prayer at the Western Wall in Jerusalem beginning as early as Sunday, July 30.  He hopes the Arab media will hear his message: “The TERRORIST WAR AGAINST ISRAEL IS A TERRORIST WAR AGAINST CHRISTIANS. Truly Born Again Christians are flying to Israel to offer prayers and support for the Jewish people whom God calls the apple of His eye. We don’t hate Arab peoples, but we hate the evil perpetrated on all civilians by terrorists.”  In a news conference scheduled for Thursday, July 27 in his hometown of  Charleston, South Carolina, Cox will announce the arrangements for special flights and lodging for those who want to go. 

“Our Jewish brothers and sisters,” asserts Cox, “need friends now more than ever before since becoming a nation in 1948. Christians must put prayer boots on the ground in Israel to fight the spiritual war being waged against Israel while Israel fights the physical war.”  Cox added that Christians should lay aside their own plans and use their financial means to go or send someone else in their place. “This is one of our most important endeavors as Christians to uplift the leaders of Israel and pray for the peace of Jerusalem,” states Cox. He points out, “Many prayers will be offered for the Arab people too that they will choose and live in peace.”    

Cox is no stranger to prayer efforts. In 2005, he mobilized hundreds of Christians to spend a full year, eight hours a day, at the Western Wall praying for Israel.  In June Cox flew to Israel and sat outside Ariel Sharon’s hospital room at the Sheba Medical Center in Tel Aviv where he prayed for eight hours.  The thirty year veteran of Washington politics has-for the last six years- devoted his energies to supporting Israel. He is founder and co-host of Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio network, (www.FrontPageJerusalem.com). The radio program is now the most listened-to Christian broadcast emanating from Jerusalem.  He has launched numerous other initiatives including rallies for Israel in major US cities. 

War in Israel Brings Christians and Jews Together

                   Metro Atlanta Day Book    July 22, 2006

"An Evening for Israel" rally was held Thursday night to a packed house at the Atlanta Marriott Northwest Cobb Ballroom as Christians and Jews came together in a unprecedented show of solidarity from across the city to support Israel. The event was sponsored by Israel Always, an organization headed by Earl Cox and Ben Kinchlow, co-hosts of Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network, and is the sixth of such events thus far nationally. The ecumenical audience was honored to hear from Dr.Yossi Olmert, the brother of the Prime Minister of Israel as the keynote speaker, moving the capacity crowd with his insights on the current situation. “An Evening for Israel” received coverage by both Fox 5 and WXIA-TV, 11 Alive on their late night newscasts.

This meeting was the first time in the history of Atlanta that Jews and Christians have met together to do something for Israel. People from many different Christian and Jewish denominations bonded together in a miraculous way. A Rabbi and Pastor prayed together; greetings from Congressmen, Senators, and President Bush were announced; a proclamation from Governor Sonny Perdue supporting Israel was read; local and national Jewish and Christian leaders spoke; Holocaust survivors were honored; and a letter of apology was read for atrocities unjustly done to Jews in Atlanta and around the world. At the end of a wonderful evening of pageantry and moving speeches, dancers danced to music of peace and unity as they passed out olive branches to the audience.

Among the featured speakers were: Sam Olens, Chairman of the Cobb County Board of Commissioners, Shmuel Ben-Shmuel, Israel Consul General, Jeff Mendelsohn, Outreach Director for AIPAC, Bishop Jim Bolin of Trinity Chapel, and Rabbi Steven Lebow of Temple Kol Emeth.

Earl Cox, Founder of Israel Always called the event “a phenomena that has begun in the Southeast and is spreading nationally”. Other religious leaders praised the event as historic, bringing together Christians and Jews as one in support of Israel.

HEZBOLLAH AGGRESSION SOLIDIFIES JEWISH- CHRISTIAN SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL

INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN BROADCASTER ALERTS Arab Press OF MAJOR EVENT  

 TO BE UNVEILED NEXT WEEK

ISRAEL ALWAYS | Charleston, South Carolina | Jerusalem, Israel

July 22, 2006   For the first time ever in Atlanta, Georgia, almost 1000 Jews and Christians rallied to show solidarity for the nation of Israel.  Leaders from both communities pledged to work in unison to encourage U.S. lawmakers to call on President Bush to stand firm with Israel in the war to subdue Hamas and Hezbollah who attacked Israel across its sovereign borders, abducting and killing Israeli soldiers.   

International Christian broadcaster, Earl Cox, along with Dr. Yossi Olmert, brother of Israel’s Prime Minister, Ehud Olmert, called on the enthusiastic crowd to be active in standing with America’s only friend and ally in the Middle East, Israel.  The July 20th rally in Atlanta marked the 6th in an ongoing series of “Israel Always” events designed to heighten public awareness of the continued threat of terrorism to all who value freedom and democracy. Organizers hope the events will serve as a launching pad to bring Jews and Christians together emphasizing their ancient faiths, modern alliances, and common enemies.   

Olmert cautioned the audience about the consequences of remaining silent and complacent. "I am concerned that the lack of vocal support by the American people will send a message of weakness to Iran and others who support terrorism.”   Cox, who has become one of Israel’s most active and outspoken Christian supporters of Israel for the past six years stated, "By attacking Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah have united the Christian and Jewish communities all across America." In issuing this statement, Cox added that, “Terrorists around the world will soon know that nothing they do will dissuade Christian support for Israel.  The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob stands with Israel and Christians stand with THE Almighty God.”   

Speakers at the event included a representative from the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, Steven Rakitt, and AIPAC National Outreach Director, Jeff Mendelsohn.  Bishop James Bolin of Trinity Chapel who helped sponsor the event read a proclamation from Georgia Governor Perdue expressing the state's support for Israel. The audience was comprised of attendees from all walks of life including Israeli government officials and local and national level elected officials as well as prominent business men and women and local community leaders.

Christian / Jewish Rallies for Israel Producing “Standing Room Only” Audiences

AUGUSTA, GA July 17, 2006 – Unprecedented attendance at “An Evening for Israel” rally in Augusta, Georgia Monday July 17 sent organizers scrambling for seating to accommodate Christians and Jews who turned out to express support for the nation of Israel.  The “Evening for Israel” rally, the fifth in a series inaugurated across the Southeastern United States by international Christian broadcasters Earl Cox and Ben Kinchlow, brought together the Jewish and Christian communities to hear the latest news from the Holy Land.  The event attracted a long list of dignitaries including representatives from the Consul General of Israel for the Southeast, local area pastors and rabbis and numerous local civic and business leaders.  The Governor of Georgia sent a proclamation which declared Georgia’s support for Israel. A highlight of the event was a live telephone hook-up with Spokesperson for the nation of Israel, Daniel Seaman, Director of Israel's Government Press Office.  

The Augusta event was co-sponsored by the Jewish Federation and Whole Life Ministries  in cooperation with Israel Always, a pro-Israel Christian group calling for unity between Jews and Christians emphasizing ancient faiths and modern alliances.  The next rally is scheduled for Thursday evening, July 20th in Atlanta, Georgia  at the Marriott Atlanta Northwest. Advance reports indicate another sold out crowd is expected.   Dr. Yossi Olmert, brother of Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert  will join Cox and Kinchlow in Atlanta.

  Prayer May Be Answer for Ariel Sharon’s Improvements

July 5, 2006 One of Israel’s leading newspapers, Yedioth Ahronoth, reported on June 28  

that Ariel Sharon is showing signs of improvement. These observations come after 

 

a June 21 World Day of Prayer for Ariel Sharon launched by Christian broadcaster 

Earl Cox, founder and co-host of Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network, 

the most listened-to Christian broadcast out of Jerusalem.

 

Sharon’s family states in the newspaper headline, “Dad has started reacting to his  

name.” They also note that Sharon is moving his head, hands, and legs and  

spends time now sitting on a chair and seems aware of his surroundings.

 

 

 While Cox does not make exaggerated claims, he is encouraged because many, many  

 thousands of Christians around the world prayed simultaneously for Mr. Sharon on  

 June 21. Some churches also held a time of fasting. Cox launched the world day of prayer 

  remarking, “I dropped everything in my schedule to go to Israel specifically to pray for  

 Ariel Sharon in obedience to God’s directions. I leave whatever happens in His Hands.”  

  In light of the encouraging signs of improvement, Cox is encouraging Christians around  

 the world to continue in  "fervent prayer "  for former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon.

 

On June 21, Cox  sat outside Sharon’s hospital room at the Sheba Medical Center 

in Tel Aviv where he prayed for a full eight hours on Mr. Sharon’s behalf with his Bible  

open in front of him. Only medical personnel and family members are allowed in  

 

Mr. Sharon's room so that he is not be exposed to any outside deterrents to his health.

 

 

 Some Israelis are asking themselves if Cox’s time of prayer resulted in Ariel Sharon’s 

improvements.  Others toss it up to coincidence.  The Christian broadcaster, a thirty-year veteran of Washington politics who, for the past six years has been one of Israel's most  

ardent supporters, said he believes strongly in the power of prayer. He went on to say 

that one thing he does know for certain,  “The world may have forgotten about Mr.  

Sharon, but God has not.”    

 

Cox’s other initiatives on behalf of Israel may be found by logging  on to www.IsraelAlways.org.

 

 

Earl Cox prays outside Ariel Sharon's hospital room at Sheba Medical Center-Tel Aviv-on June 21 calling for Christians to pray worldwide.


Photo: Cindy Dyer/Jerusaelm

Thousands joined in Prayer with International Broadcaster for   World Day of Prayer for Ariel Sharon

June 22, 2006  International broadcaster Earl Cox arrived in Tel Aviv earlier this week to pray at the bedside of Israel’s former Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon.  Prior to his departure from the States, Cox received prayers via email from Christians around the United States.  These prayers were hand carried with Cox to the Sheba Medical Center in Tel Aviv where he was granted permission to pray just

outside the door to Mr. Sharon’s hospital room.  Mr. Sharon has been in a coma since early January.  Hospital policy only allows doctors, nurses and immediate family into Mr. Sharon’s room in order to keep his environment as sterile as possible. 

To the astonishment of guards and hospital staff, Cox steadily maintained the fast and prayer for eight straight hours this past Wednesday.  People from around the world prayed simultaneously with Cox who began his vigil at 3:00 PM Israel time concluding at 11:00 PM.  Those on the East Coast of the U.S. began at 8:00 AM concluding at 4:00 PM and other time zones adjusted accordingly.  Upon conclusion of the prayer vigil, emails from individuals, prayer intercessor networks and radio networks came in to Cox’s stateside office proclaiming that they, too, had engaged in the prayer vigil for Mr. Sharon.  Cox said, “God has called us to be a people of prayer.  I believe the Bible is the Word of God and it means exactly what it says and it says that we should ‘pray without ceasing.’”     

 Cox, co-host of Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network (www.frontpagejerusalem.com) founded the global radio network in 2002, after 30 years in Washington politics holding positions under Presidents Nixon, Ford, Carter, and Reagan. Front Page Jerusalem is now the most listened-to Christian broadcast emanating from Jerusalem.  Israel’s Prime Minister, Ehud Olmert, calls the program “the voice of Israel to the world.” The news magazine broadcasts lively interviews with Israel’s leaders and newsmakers weekly.

Christian Broadcaster Calls for June 21 DAY OF PRAYER for Ariel Sharon

“Speak against Israel's Enemies, not her Leaders,” Urges Earl Cox

Influential Christian broadcaster Earl Cox, who prayed in Jerusalem daily at the Western Wall throughout 2005, is returning to Israel on June 21 to lead an international prayer vigil for Israel’s former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and his family. 

Cox, who founded Front Page Jerusalem Global Radio Network- a program Ehud Olmert calls “the voice of Israel to the world”- explains, “The world may have forgotten Ariel Sharon but God has not. I invite Christians around the world to remember him in prayer on June 21, 2006.  

The broadcaster, a thirty-year veteran of Washington politics, has devoted his life since 2000 to launching initiatives on behalf of Israel. He points out, “Ariel Sharon’s service to the state of Israel is legendary. He cast a giant shadow on the landscape of Israel, the Middle East, and the world by meeting the challenges of history to ensure the survival of the Jewish state, whether in the trenches or in the halls of Knesset.” Cox says he is flying to Israel for one reason; to “pray for Mr. Sharon” where he lies in a coma at the Sheba Medical Center in Tel Aviv. Cox  will conduct a silent eight-hour prayer vigil  at the Sheba Center. He’s calling upon Christians and Christian leaders worldwide to join him wherever they are on June 21 to pray on behalf of Mr. Sharon. “I am not a healer and I have no agenda,” Cox explains, “I simply know that God has asked me to do this and I am obeying His directive.”

 Cox is also urging Christians to stop criticizing Israel’s leaders. He points out, “Truly, it is time for Christians to let Israel run Israel's affairs. Israel, a tiny democracy floating in a sea of Arab hatred, has enough challenges without having to justify themselves to Christians, who are called to be praying for the peace of Jerusalem - not trying to direct Israeli policy. After all, we are not Israeli citizens, nor do we serve in the IDF or pay Israeli taxes.” Cox believes Christians do have a right to express their opinions but he stops there. “Whatever Israel decides to do with their land or their policies is not my responsibility.  If they are wrong, God will take care of making whatever corrections He deems appropriate.”  If  God puts leaders into office, as the Bible says, then we in the Christian community must believe that he has a plan and is in control.” Cox is challenging Christians to speak out against Israel's enemies rather than Israel's leaders and their policies. He cites demands that Iran forgo their nuclear ambitions as a cause for Christians to push forward. .   

“If I adhere to God's Word, I will stand with Israel with a commitment to defend it against its enemies, which are also America's enemies,” Cox affirms. “Israel needs encouragement and support from Christians before Russia, the United Nations, Great Britain and the US insist that they implement the Quartet Road Map which, in my opinion, is a road map to disaster.” 

 Cox will hand-deliver written prayers to Sharon’s family, that are received through the website www.IsraelAlways.org

   Momentum Growing in Jewish/Christian Rallies in US 

 

May 4, 2006 Charleston, SC -- Another historic event comprised of Jewish rabbis, Christian pastors and enthusiastic members from their congregations gathered recently on the decommissioned aircraft carrier USS Yorktown in Charleston, S.C. to demonstrate unity in support of Israel.  The event, one of four such rallies held in the last three weeks in the U.S. including Tennessee, South Carolina and Ohio, has been lauded by key leaders in both the Jewish and Christian communities as an effective tool in combating rising anti-Semitism, prejudice and global terrorism.  

 

The "Evening for Israel" events are the brainchild of Earl Cox, a former political operative who switched from politics six years ago to a front line supporter of the nation of Israel.  Cox founded a global radio program, Front Page Jerusalem, produced by the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem which is now the most listened to Christian broadcast from Israel.  He asserts,  “It is imperative for Christian and Jews to put aside their centuries old, well founded distrust and unite in total support of the people of Israel.”   

 

Addressing an audience estimated by security officials at between 600 and 700, guest speakers included Daniel Seaman, Director General of the Israel Government Press Office, Office of the Prime Minister.  He noted the symbolism of the event’s venue aboard the USS Yorktown by stating, “Israel is YOUR aircraft carrier in the Middle East.”  Anne Ayalon, wife of Israel's Ambassador to the United States challenged Christians and Jews to speak out and unite in support of Israel.  An Hasidic Rabbi from Israel who has never before addressed an audience comprised of Christians and Jews, gave a message as well.  Award winning local television personality, Bill Sharpe, emceed the event while volunteers from churches and synagogues served in various functions to make the event a success. 

 

Following “Israel Always” in Charleston, Cox, Seaman and the Israeli Rabbi journeyed to Columbus and Cleveland, Ohio for two similar events.  The next scheduled "Evening for Israel" event will take place in mid-July in Augusta, Georgia followed a few days later by an event in Atlanta on July 20. 

 

Other Jewish/Christian events are being planned for various locations throughout the Bible belt and beyond in the USA.   For additional information on how you can be involved in rallies, bus tours to Washington D.C. and tours to Poland and Israel,  log on to www.IsraelAlways.org email frontpagejerusalem@juno.com. 

 Prayer vigil recruiting under way
by DAVE MUNDAY
The Post and Courier Staff  Charleston, SC

May 9, 2004 Isle of Palms native Earl Cox got a personal letter Wednesday from Israeli Vice Prime Minister Ahud Olmert. Olmert, former mayor of Jerusalem and second-in- command to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, expressed his support for Cox's latest plan to rally Americans to the defense of Israel. Cox is lining up Christians to pray at Jerusalem's West Wall, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in eight-hour shifts. He will announce the initiative May 20 at a press conference in Washington, D.C.

Cox met Olmert through Cox's weekly radio show, "Front Page Jerusalem," which is broadcast out of the Jerusalem Gold Hotel and edited in a studio in Charles-ton for national distribution. Cox also got the attention of the Israeli government when he put up billboards across Israel saying Christians in Charleston, S.C., support Israel's determination not to give up land in hopes of peace with Palestinian terrorist groups.

Cox will also announce a new network of Christian Zionists called the American Christian Reserve Israeli Defense Force. They will wage a war of minds to convince people that Israel should not give up any of its land. Cox is one of millions of evangelical Christians who believe it's their God-given duty to support the Israeli government's plans to define and secure its borders.

"The truly born-again Christian will never support Israel giving away anything," Cox said.
He was speaking by cell phone from Marion Square, where he spends every Thursday when he is in town praying for Israel. He was also praying for national leaders because it was the National Day of Prayer.

Hundreds more Christian Zionists will gather Tuesday in Washington for a prayer breakfast whose purpose is to "honor Israel and pray for the peace of Jerusalem." It's sponsored by the National Religious Roundtable.

Speakers include Israeli Knesset member Abraham Hirchson and former Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore, who became nationally famous in his fight to keep a monument with the Ten Commandments on public property. The Christian Coalition is also a strong supporter of Israeli policy. Christian Zionism is on the rise, and it worries Catholic and mainline Christians trying to tell the Israeli government that Palestinians should not be forced to live as second-class citizens.

More than 600 Christians from 32 countries, including the leader of the Anglican church in Jeru-salem and a representative of the archbishop of Canterbury, gathered April 14-18 in Jerusalem for a conference called "Challenging Christian Zionism: Theology, Politics, and the Palestine-Israel Conflict."

They released a statement saying "we categorically reject Christian Zionist doctrines as a false teaching that undermines the biblical message of love, mercy and justice." The statement affirmed that a just and lasting peace must be based on two sovereign states, Palestine and Israel, living in a confederation, possibly with neighboring countries, with Jerusalem serving as the federal capital. Cox dismisses the criticism. "The Jewish people have never denied Palestinians the right to live in their land," he said.

The Palestinians are being forced to live like second-class citizens because their leaders are committed to the destruction of Israel, he said. Measures like a security fence make life inconvenient for Palestinians, but Israel has to protect itself from suicide bombers, he said.

"What it all boils down to is they (the Palestinians) brought it on themselves" by tolerating leaders who support terrorism, he said. Cox will call the new prayer network Wall Warriors for Israel. They will start in the Jerusalem Gold Hotel watching a short video on proper behavior in Jewish territory. That includes not trying to convert Jews to Christianity.

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