This weeks Prayer for Israel gathering, we were privileged to hear from Tony Sperandeo, a long-time friend of PFI and leader of Messianic congregation Kehilat Hamaayan Fellowship in Kfar Saba, northeast of Tel Aviv. Despite experiencing one of the most intense and traumatic conflicts in Israel’s modern history – a twelve-day war with Iran – Tony brought a message of resilience, thanksgiving, and hope rooted in Scripture and prayer.
Finding Strength in the Lord
Tony reminded us that in such turbulent times, we are called to “be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might” (Ephesians 6). Our strength must not come from media narratives, political leaders, or even military strength—though we remain grateful for the IDF’s protection—but from the Lord alone.
As Israel faces unprecedented challenges, believers are called to draw nearer to God, to put on His full armour, and to persevere in prayer. This is not a season to retreat spiritually, but to stand firm and intercede.
The War and Its Toll
Tony recounted the staggering impact of the recent war: 5,000 homes destroyed and over 20,000 people displaced. Though 28 lives were lost, Tony emphasized the mercy of God—given the scale of the ballistic attacks, the number could have been far higher. One story stood out: a missile obliterated a kindergarten in Petah Tikva—but it struck at 3 a.m., sparing 100 children who would have been there just hours later.
Throughout the conflict, families endured daily runs to bomb shelters, often in the dead of night, with only a minute or two to take cover. Many, including Tony’s own daughters, grandchildren, and even the family dog, took refuge in his home for the duration of the fighting.
Trauma and Healing
The people of Israel remain in a state of deep exhaustion and trauma. Though a ceasefire has been declared, uncertainty hangs in the air. As Tony stated, “This is not peace—it is merely a ceasefire.” Israel continues to face existential threats, especially from Iran, whose regime continues to vow the destruction of the Jewish state.
To bring healing in the midst of such darkness, Tony’s congregation runs a centre for emotional and spiritual healing through creativity. Survivors of trauma come to express themselves through art and are gently introduced to the comfort and hope found in Yeshua. This ministry has now been invited to offer workshops in kibbutzim near the Gaza border.
The Gospel in the Midst of War
Despite the pain, Tony testified to powerful moves of God across the region:
- In Iran, believers are witnessing the world’s fastest-growing underground church. Many imprisoned Christians were recently released, and prayers continue for a shift in that nation’s regime.
- In Gaza, despite the turmoil, Muslim-background believers are coming to faith in Yeshua. There are around 2,000 believers there—many of whom have been supernaturally protected through this war.
- In Syria, among the threatened Druze population, doors have opened for ministry and prayer. God is reaching across tribal and religious lines.
Tony shared that in 45 years of ministry, he has never seen such openness among Jews, Arabs, and Druze alike. “Let every missile that falls,” he said, “break down the walls of stone in people’s hearts.”
Prayer Points
Tony concluded with several key areas for prayer:
- For the Displaced – Thousands have lost homes and possessions. Pray for comfort, restoration, and provision.
- For the Hostages – Around 54 hostages remain, some confirmed dead. Pray for the return of remains, release of the living, and comfort for grieving families.
- For the Bereaved – Twenty IDF soldiers were killed in June alone. Pray for those mourning across the nation.
- For the Iranian Jewish Community – Over 850 Jews in Iran were recently detained and had their homes searched. Pray for protection and mercy.
- For the Body of Messiah in the Region – That Jewish, Arab, and Druze believers would be strengthened and emboldened to share the Good News.
- For Revival in Israel – With only around 20,000 believers in a population of 8 million, pray that hearts would be softened and turned to the Lord.
A Closing Word
God is not idle. He is moving in Israel, in Gaza, in Iran, and in Syria. Amidst bombs and sirens, hearts are opening. The Church is rising up in compassion and faith. Let us continue to stand together in prayer, believing that God will turn enemies into brothers, despair into hope, and mourning into praise.
We invite you to continue lifting up Israel and the surrounding nations. As Tony affirmed, “Your prayers are not in vain.”
“He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.”
— Psalm 121:4
Prayer for Israel remains committed to standing in intercession with and for Israel. Please share this message, and join us in praying for peace, salvation, and healing across the land.
