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Stand With Israel in a Defining Hour

By Rev. Juan Rivera | NHCLC/HILC

In recent days, the escalating conflict in the Middle East — particularly threats from the Iranian regime toward Israel and U.S. forces — has reminded us that the spiritual and moral foundations of nations matter deeply. This is not merely geopolitical noise. It is a moment when believers are being called to stand with clarity, conviction, and compassion. The Church must rise — not in fear, but in informed, prayerful leadership.

As President of the Hispanic Israel Leadership Coalition (HILC) and on behalf of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC), I want to reaffirm our unwavering support for the State of Israel, her right to security, and the safety of all innocent civilians caught in conflict. We stand against terror and the existential threats facing Israel and pray for peace and protection throughout the region.

We also pray for the long-suffering people of Iran, many of whom long for peace and freedom in the midst of oppression. Our solidarity does not diminish our compassion — it strengthens it.

In response to these times, we want to highlight two key opportunities for NHCLC pastors and leaders to engage, pray, and equip their congregations in unity with the broader faith community.

1. “Never is Now” — ADL Summit | New York City | March 16–17, 2026

The Anti-Defamation League’s annual “Never is Now” summit is returning to New York City on March 16–17, 2026, focusing on combating antisemitism, strengthening interfaith alliance, and equipping faith leaders with practical tools to confront hatred and hate-driven ideologies head-on. NHCLC’s President Rev. Samuel Rodriguez will be speaking on the main stage, addressing Christian-Jewish partnership and moral clarity in times of rising hate. Registration is open, and NHCLC pastors can register for free using code NHCLC20 — a significant opportunity to bring your voice and leadership to this crucial gathering.

2. Israel Advocacy Day | Washington, D.C. | May 4–6, 2026

In partnership with Eagles’ Wings and the Israel Christian Nexus, the Israel Advocacy Day will take place May 4–6, 2026, bringing together hundreds of pastors, rabbis, and faith leaders for strategic engagement with members of the United States Congress on matters including U.S.–Israel relations, security assistance, combating antisemitism, and confronting threats such as Iran’s nuclear ambitions. This event builds on the historic turnout from recent years — where more than 300 pastors and rabbis united in Washington to advocate boldly for Israel and strengthen interfaith cooperation.

These events reinforce our call as NHCLC/HILC:
• To stand without apology for truth.
• To build bridges of unity with Jewish brothers and sisters.
• To confront hatred and antisemitism with both conviction and compassion.
• And to lead our congregations in prayer and action that reflects biblical moral clarity.

Registration details:

  • Never is Now (NYC, March 16–17) — use code NHCLC20 for free NHCLC pastor registration. 
  • Israel Advocacy Day (Washington, D.C., May 4–6) — registration open through Eagles’ Wings partners. 

In these defining times, NHCLC/HILC stands firmly with Israel, committed to biblical truth, and united with leaders of faith who refuse moral relativism and complacency. Together, we will continue to lift up prayer, partnership, and prophetic witness for peace and justice.