Prime Minister to Establish Home Bible Study Group

Prime Minister Netanyahu is establishing a regular Bible study group in his residence for researchers, public officials and invited guests. Former Prime Ministers Ben Gurion and Begin also had regular studies. Netanyahu is starting the study in order to perpetuate the love of the Bible, saying, "The Bible is the mandate for the country. It is the wondrous story of the Jewish people; the unique spiritual, cultural and historical heritage of our people and the cornerstone of all of human culture." (Jerusalem Post)

Pray that the Lord will open the eyes of Netanyahu and his guests to the Jewish Messiah as revealed in the Scriptures.

Netanyahu To Visit Africa

In an effort to cut down on illegal immigration from Africa to Israel, Netanyahu will travel to Africa to discuss the matter with African leaders. There are already over 52,000 African migrants in Israel; most of them enter through the Sinai Peninsula, in search of work. Unfortunately, their presence strains the country’s economy, society, infrastructure, welfare and internal security. Israel will still care for those who are political refugees. (Haaretz)

Pray for a long-term solution to the issue of illegal immigration to Israel.

Israel Takes Gold in Sailing World Championships

Israeli windsurfer Lee Korzits won a gold medal at the Sailing World Championships in Perth, Australia. Israelis are world-renowned windsurfers; you can see the ocean's shores full of windsurfers when the wind and waves are right. (Haaretz)

Israel Sends New Ambassador To Egypt

Israel's new ambassador to Egypt will arrive in Cairo this week. The previous ambassador was evacuated after the September attacks on the Israeli embassy. The embassy will only resume normal activity once acceptable security arrangements are in place. Anti-Israel talk has been more prevalent after the revolution in Egypt.

Pray for the peace between Israel and Egypt to be maintained.

White House Hanukkah Reception

President Barack Obama hosted a large Hanukkah party for 550 people more than a week before the holiday. "We're extending the holiday spirit by stretching it out," said Obama. The party was attended by the President, the Vice President, and their wives, along with Jewish political, cultural, and community leaders. Obama reiterated his "unshakeable support" for Israel. (JTA)

Pray that the United States will continue its support of and friendship with Israel.

Israeli Author Kicked Off Panel

An Israeli author was kicked off a panel discussion in Marseilles, France, at the request of a Palestinian poet. The discussion was about the Arab Spring, and the Palestinian writer threatened to withdraw his participation in the conference if he would have to sit at round table discussions with the Israeli author. The situation became very controversial, as about half the crowd supported the Israeli and the other half supported the Palestinian. (JTA)

Hanukkah Treats: Baked Donuts Healthier than Fried Donuts

As Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, approaches (it begins the evening of December 20), it is time to enjoy all the festive foods! Latkes – a grated potato and onion mix fried golden brown like a pancake and eaten with apple sauce or sour cream – are one of the stables. Another popular treat are sufganiyot (donuts), which are usually deep fried and eaten with sweet fillings or toppings. These oily foods remind us of the miracle of the oil in the rededicated Temple which lasted for eight days – enough time to make more pure oil. These foods can add many calories to one's holiday diet, so dietitians are suggesting baking the donuts in muffin pans instead. (Jerusalem Post)

Weekly Benevolence Outreach Filled to Capacity

Staff member Brian S. reports that every seat has been filled at Chosen People Ministries' weekly soup kitchen and clothes distribution center. "We always strive to pray over the food and people before we feed them," Brian explains. "We also often have live worship in several languages, show the Jesus Film, do biblical drama and publicly read Scripture to enrich and stimulate their spiritual senses as we fulfill their physical needs." One woman recently expressed how much she and her family appreciate the generous assistance of Chosen People Ministries, saying, "We don't think we could make it through the week without your help."

Praise the Lord that this work is making an impact for eternity among needy people in Israel!