A Time to Unite in the Season of Light

Dear Friend,

Entering the season of Hanukkah, “The Feast of Lights”, and Christmas, the message we hear is of peace, love, and victory. A message of light fighting against the darkness. We are reminded of the shared values that bind us together, Jews and Christians.

During the feast of Hanukkah, many celebrate the victory of the Jews who fought against their enemies and won. Those who are celebrating the birth of Yeshua, the Jewish Messiah who brought salvation and hope to the world, are celebrating the light of the world. On the other hand, we also confront a harsh reality – the rise of global antisemitism, a threat to the very fabric of our shared humanity. The battle against those dark forces who are bringing hate and destruction.

The story of Yeshua, born in a humble manger in Bethlehem, resonates deeply with the Jewish experience, embodying the principles of humble beginnings, hope, love, and redemption. Yet, in these times, when hatred against Jewish communities is escalating, we are called to reaffirm our commitment to unity and understanding.

Vision for Israel’s work with Holocaust survivors like Leah, born in Romania, brings to light the devastating consequences of unchecked hatred and prejudice. During the war, Leah and her family first hid in their house, living in constant fear. Her father was forcibly taken, and the family had to flee, finding temporary refuge in a stable and later in the basement of a compassionate neighbour. This neighbour, later recognized as a Righteous Among the Nations, provided them with fake IDs and helped them escape to a remote village. Leah vividly recalls the harrowing experiences of hunger, thirst, and the loss of a normal childhood. These early traumas have left a profound mark, and her tears today are a testament to the enduring impact of those dark times.

After making Aliyah and settling in Tel Aviv, Leah's life continued to be shadowed by the past. She has faced years of crying, and major depression, and is recognized as having a mental disability due to her experiences. Now a widow, Leah recently suffered a stroke. Despite her physical and emotional challenges, she remains a symbol of resilience. Today, she is accompanied by a social worker and a volunteer who visits weekly, helping to alleviate her loneliness. Vision for Israel has been providing her with ongoing assistance, standing by her side through these later chapters of her life.

By standing with Vision for Israel, you contribute to a world where respect and empathy transcend divisions. Your support enables us to extend a helping hand to Holocaust survivors like Leah, offering them the dignity and care they deserve in their twilight years. These heroes, who have witnessed the worst of humanity, now deserve the best we can offer.

With your help, we can provide for special expenses like medical and dental care, and essential personal hygiene disposable products that are not included in their medical insurance. Your gift of £80 each month supports one Holocaust survivor by providing them with the care they need in their golden age.

Additionally, as we reflect on the values of this season, let us also remember the ongoing plight of terror survivors in Israel. Their stories, marked by pain yet defined by courage, remind us that the light of hope must never be extinguished.

In this time of giving, your ongoing monthly generosity can bring comfort, joy, and light to those who have suffered the most. Let us unite in the essence of this holiday season to light up the lives of Holocaust and terror survivors, embodying the message of peace and love that Yeshua taught.

As we celebrate this season, let’s embrace its true heart by standing in solidarity with those facing antisemitism and terror. Together, we can create a ripple of compassion that reaches every corner of the globe.


Shining the light with love and joy,
Barry & Batya