January 2, 2012
An enthusiastic delegation from JH Ranch in California arrived in the City of Ariel, the Capital of the Shomron (Samaria) this weekend to demonstrate their support. During their visit they participated in the first PRAY WITH ISRAEL prayer launch program.
Avi Zimmerman (Avraham David), Executive Director of American Friends of Ariel, who narrates the online and radio-broadcast Weekly Prayer for Israel explained; “the inspiration for the Weekly Prayer for Israel began with a woman who attended the JH Ranch delegation to Ariel two years ago. She asked a simple question that so
many people ask. She wanted to know how she can pray for Israel. After much thought and considerable study PRAY WITH ISRAEL was born.”
The JH Ranch delegation gathered on Sunday, January first, inside the soon-to-be-dedicated Big Top Tent on the Ariel National Leadership Development Center grounds. Heather Johnston, who led the JH Ranch delegation to Ariel, and her husband Bruce Johnston, Director of the JH Ranch, have played a major role in the establishment of the Ariel National Leadership Development Center (ANLDC). The prayer at the Big Top brought many ongoing efforts full circle – both for the ANLDC site development and for the new PRAY WITH ISRAEL endeavor.
Heather Johnston shared about the importance of Christians joining with Israel in praying for G-d’s purposes and blessing on this country. Avi taught, read and prayed Tehillim (Psalms), chapter 117 and chapter 121.
Each year, the JH Ranch brings a delegation to Israel to tour and to experience life in Ariel. On Saturday night, December 31, during a special concert for the delegation Mayor Ron Nachman shared his vision for the ANLDC and his close friendship with Bruce and Heather Johnston.
One of the delegates from the US, David, a university student has been here six times with the JH Ranch Delegation and says that he loves Israel so much that he likes to come whenever possible. He said that visiting Ariel has enriched his life. Just before he departed he said, “Just for the record, I had a ball. I came to bless, but was blessed by the people of Ariel.”
By Frank Mecklenburg, freelance reporter.