Celebrating Rosh HaShanah 5786 and Twenty Years of King of Glory Jerusalem Congregation
On September 23, Jerusalem came alive with celebration as the “Trumpets on Zion” conference marked both Rosh HaShanah 5786 and the twentieth anniversary of King of Glory Jerusalem congregation. Believers traveled from across Israel and beyond to gather in thanksgiving, rejoicing in God’s faithfulness and sharing in an atmosphere rich with prayer and praise.
From the very first moments, joy was tangible and God’s presence unmistakable. The hosts welcomed everyone with heartfelt gratitude – thanking the Lord and acknowledging all who had poured their energy into making this day possible. Special recognition went to those who have walked alongside the congregation for years, working tirelessly to see God’s Kingdom established in Jerusalem.
The shofar blasts created an unforgettable moment. Their ancient sound rose as a spiritual declaration of renewal and hope – that timeless call to repentance and faith. As voices joined in worship, the entire hall seemed to pulse with strength and unity.
Pastor Oren Lev Ari reflected on the congregation’s twenty-year journey with deep thanksgiving. He remembered those early days when just a small circle of believers gathered to pray for God’s glory – and marveled at how that simple prayer continues to be answered. This anniversary stands as living proof that the Lord remains faithful, guiding His church through seasons of both joy and trial.
The day overflowed with songs of praise, including a special piece written two decades ago that was performed once again. This musical thread connected past and present, serving as a beautiful reminder of how the Lord has guided the congregation through the years. The worship became one of the purest expressions of gratitude and celebration.
Rabbi Kirt Schneider delivered a powerful message about God’s greatness and His intimate presence – how He actually dwells among His people. He emphasized the vital importance of personal relationship, divine revelation, and obedience to God’s will. True love for the Lord, he reminded everyone, shows itself in keeping His commandments. He quoted Jesus’ promise that both the Father and the Son make their home in the believer’s heart.
Rabbi Schneider also challenged the gathering not to live only in memories of what God has done. The Lord is alive and actively working today, which means we’re called to trust Him, break free from familiar thought patterns, and open our hearts fresh to the Holy Spirit. His message was a compelling invitation to seek not just information about God, but a genuine, life-transforming encounter with Him.
Pastor Ari Sorko-Ram brought additional insights from Scripture, emphasizing that God’s presence isn’t meant to be confined to special moments during church services – it’s available every single day. While the enemy tries to distract us with anxiety and busyness, believers are called to live in God’s peace and power. The key, he explained, is beautifully simple: trust God’s Word, listen to the Holy Spirit, and daily choose to surrender our will to His.
Pastor Sorko-Ram continued by addressing the renewal of our minds and the discipline required of our hearts. God has given us new hearts, but we bear the responsibility of filling them with His Word and strengthening our faith. He reminded everyone that the Lord is absolutely faithful to His promises and urged them to hold tight to those promises even when answers seem delayed.
The celebration concluded with extended prayer and worship, weaving together words of gratitude and dedication with hope for what lies ahead. During the fellowship time, people shared their joy with one another, reflecting on the journey already traveled while looking forward to the new season God is preparing.
This twentieth anniversary became far more than just a time of remembrance – it marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter. There was a clear call to pray for the future, support the ministry’s continued growth, and join as partners in advancing God’s Kingdom. Faith took deeper root in many hearts, with fresh confidence that the coming year will bring new fruit and that the Lord will open unprecedented doors for His church.
Though the Rosh HaShanah celebration has ended, the sound of those trumpets continues echoing within us. It calls us to renewal, faithfulness, and love. “Trumpets on Zion” served as both a thanksgiving celebration for twenty years of God’s mercy and a prayer for the future -that the Lord would be glorified in Jerusalem and to the very ends of the earth.
