Evangelical leaders representing more than a quarter of a billion Christians worldwide marked the second anniversary of the October 7 massacre with recorded messages of solidarity for Israel, commitments to fight antisemitism, and plans for coordinated prayers this Sunday, according to a statement from the Friends of Zion Heritage Center (FOZ).
Invited by FOZ founder Dr. Mike Evans, pastors and ministry heads “from across the globe recorded and shared messages of solidarity with Israel, condemning the rise of antisemitism and reaffirming their long-term commitment to stand with the Jewish state,” the organization said.
“These leaders delivered messages of hope and strength to the people of Israel, expressing admiration for the nation’s resilience and faith amid ongoing challenges,” the statement added.
Participants included Pastor Jack Graham of Prestonwood Baptist Church; Clint Pressley, senior pastor of Hickory Grove Baptist Church and president of the Southern Baptist Convention; Doug Clay, general superintendent of the Assemblies of God; Skip Heitzig of Calvary Church; Max Lucado of Oak Hills Church; Dr. Jay Strack, founder of Student Leadership University; Erick Stakelbeck, host of The Watchman on TBN; Mat Staver, founder and chairman of Liberty Counsel; and Ralph Reed, founder and chairman of the Faith & Freedom Coalition, FOZ said.
Graham addressed his congregation “sharing what they have already done to help the people of Israel and praying in solidarity for the country,” FOZ noted. A special time of prayer is planned “this Sunday at churches around the world for the families of victims, the hostages, and the soldiers defending the country,” the statement said.
“We cannot be silent while evil rages,” said Evans, whom FOZ describes as a Nobel Peace Prize nominee and the founder of the Jerusalem Prayer Team as well as the visionary behind the Ambassadors for Israel Summit. “The pulpit must speak louder than the propaganda. We are calling on pastors across America to lift their voices against violence and antisemitism, and in biblical support of Israel.”
Evans also urged US pastors to pray for Israel during Sunday services on October 12 and to record their own video messages of support, according to the statement.
'One of the largest mobilizations of Christian leaders in modern history'
Looking ahead, FOZ said that, in partnership with the State of Israel, it will host the inaugural Ambassadors for Israel Summit in Jerusalem on December 1–8, 2025, describing it as “one of the largest mobilizations of Christian leaders in modern history.” While the 2025 delegation is at capacity, “registration is now open for 2026,” and pastors and ministry leaders may apply or enroll in an upcoming online Ambassadors Certification Program, FOZ added.
Founded in Jerusalem by Evans, the Friends of Zion Heritage Center “celebrates Israel’s allies, fights antisemitism, and builds enduring bridges of friendship between Christians and the Jewish people,” the statement said. “Dr. Evans has been a true friend to Israel for over 50 years,” said Rich Wilkerson, pastor of Peacemakers Trinity Church in Miami. “He has never turned away from struggle or strife. His dedication to Israel is unwavering.”