More than 240 people gathered in British Columbia’s capital city, Victoria on Tuesday evening to stand in solidarity with Israel. “Am Yisrael Chai:  A Jewish Community Gathering for Solidarity and Peace” was sponsored by Jewish Federation of Victoria and Vancouver Island and brought together members of the Jewish and Christian communities in the sanctuary of Canada’s oldest Synagogue—Congregation Emanu-El. 

In addition to speeches by Jewish community leaders, Pastor Bill Southward spoke passionately about Israel and the importance of Christian support for the Jewish state.  Prime Minister Stephen Harper and NDP MP Murray Rankin wrote remarks which were read out the event, in addition to prayers for fallen Israeli soldiers and for peace. Money was raised for Jewish Federation/UIA’s emergency Israel Relief Fund which provides support and relief to individuals and communities which have been under siege in Israel throughout this past summer.