South African Pastors Join the ICEJ’s Annual Feast of Tabernacles in Israel

Sderot – More than 100 pastors from South Africa have traveled to Israel to participate in the annual Feast of Tabernacles gathering hosted by the International Christian Embassy of Jerusalem (ICEJ).

The South African Friends of Israel (SAFI) announced on Monday, 6 October 2025, that a group of 120 pastors has set off for Israel to take part in the ICEJ event.

This year’s feast, scheduled from 6–10 October 2025, is significant, bringing together over 1,500 Christians from more than 70 nations in Jerusalem for the largest solidarity mission to Israel since the war began two years ago, as reported by SAFI.

“Despite the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the delegation of Christian leaders remains dedicated to faith-based diplomacy,” stated SAFI.

“Their presence represents the steadfast support that Israel receives from Christians globally, standing with Israel during its times of crisis.”

With the theme “Ten From Every Nation” (Zechariah 8:23), pilgrims will start their visit by connecting with Israeli communities near the Gaza border, observing the resilience of citizens recovering from the devastating terrorist attacks on 7 October 2023.

“Today, the South African pastors will visit the Gaza Strip and towns such as Sderot,” noted SAFI.

“Delegates will attend a remembrance ceremony at Sapir College to honor the 1,200 Israelis lost and the 251 hostages taken during the attack, listening to firsthand accounts from survivors.”

SAFI further mentioned that the itinerary includes visits to critical sites of Hamas atrocities, including the Nova music festival grounds and the “car graveyard” near Tkuma, culminating with events in Jerusalem, such as the Jerusalem March and a solidarity evening featuring Israeli President Isaac Herzog, U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee, and Fijian Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka.

“The presence of 120 South African pastors in Jerusalem this week sends a powerful message: the church in South Africa stands united with Israel against antisemitism, terrorism, and those who seek to destroy it,” stated Bafana Modise, National Spokesperson for SAFI.

“As our government’s foreign policy shifts toward hostility, these pastors represent millions of South African Christians who affirm Israel’s biblical and moral right to defend itself and coexist in peace.”

ICEJ President, Dr. Jürgen Bühler, referred to the Feast as a “message of unwavering support for Israel,” highlighting the importance of large delegations from Western nations, including the UK, France, Norway, Canada, Ireland, and Australia.

SAFI commends these pastors for their courage and conviction in traveling to Israel during wartime, emphasizing that faith-based communities in South Africa continue to be a beacon of solidarity with the Jewish state.

In related news, Israel, facing accusations of genocide due to IDF actions that have reportedly resulted in over 60,000 Palestinian deaths—many of whom were women and children—appears to be yielding to international pressure to cease hostilities.

Negotiators are reportedly gathering in Egypt for talks aimed at resolving nearly two years of conflict in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli strikes on Gaza continue, with at least 24 Palestinians reportedly killed on Sunday.

Additionally, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on Israel to release South African and other nationals who were abducted during the interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla.

The Flotilla consists of over 50 humanitarian vessels intended to deliver aid to Gaza.

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