June 3, 2013
The Faith Bible Chapel International “Singers & Dancers” (FBC Internationals) of Arvada, Colorado made its annual visit to Ariel with its crew of young performers, both newcomers and veteran guests. The FBC Internationals perform in Israel at IDF bases throughout the country for one month each summer in a tradition that has been going on for over 20 years.
The group of 30 breezed up the mountainous trail of the Ariel National Leadership Development Center to reach Ron Nachman’s gravesite overlooking the city. Dorith Nachman greeted the FBC Internationals, inspiring them with the story of Ron’s prophetic vision of a barren, rocky Ariel growing into a booming Samarian town.
Cheryl Morrison, Director of Israel Outreach at FBC, recalled her friendship with Ron and his we-can-do-it mentality, telling the group how “he would have been a character in the Bible.” Visibly saddened by Ron’s passing, Cheryl took comfort in the idea that “God never makes mistakes.”
It was a phrase that also came up at the Brenda Wygant Memorial Vineyard that FBC planted in southern Ariel to honor the memory of troupe participant, Brenda Wygant. Brenda, who lost her life to cancer, loved Ariel, and the vineyard is a realization of Jeremiah’s prophecy that “you shall yet plant vines on the mountains of Samaria.” Her widower, Scott, recalled how even while undergoing chemotherapy she made every effort to visit and perform in the city she loved.
The group toured the Or Zevulun religious day school, where they were greeted by a surprise mandolin performance by the students. They visited classrooms for special needs students, where a 3rd grade class presented to them their mini “nursery” selling bean and chia pet plants. The group took out their shekels and invested on the spot.
The FBC Internationals socialized over pasta and salads at the Café Café located inside the Sports and Recreation Complex before heading off to Jerusalem for an afternoon performance at a base for Israeli police. We thank them for their continued visits and for the love they consistently show for Ariel – the City of Samaria. See you next year!