As we approach the end of 2017, it is amazing to look back and see how much was accomplished in Holocaust education and combatting anti-Semitism. We can never rest on our laurels, rather we need to continue and intensify our efforts in the year ahead. Regardless, it is good to look back and see what some of the key events were. We hosted countless visitors here at Yad Vashem but also participated in important conventions abroad. We are grateful for all of those who selflessly helped us and volunteered during events and conferences.

During February-March 2017, I, along with volunteers attended the NRB (National Religious Broadcasters) Convention where we met many important Christian media figures and leaders to discuss potential Yad Vashem visits and programming. Over the course of the year I was hosted for speaking engagements by churches across the USA, Italy, Switzerland, Serbia, and Finland. Several Yad Vashem travelling exhibitions were opened in numerous countries. Our annual Graduate Meeting in Washington DC was held in August.  This meeting is geared towards our former seminar participants and offers some additional learning and networking opportunities. The conference was generously sponsored by the Museum of the Bible.

Here in the Land we hosted international guests for Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day at the campus of Yad Vashem. During May the first-ever Christian Friends of Yad Vashem Prayer and Study Tour took place purposefully coinciding with Jerusalem's 50 year Jubilee celebrations. During the year we also arranged three tailor-made Christian Leadership seminars one of which was for young Christian leaders – a generation that needs the education more than ever. During Feast of Tabernacles organized by ICEJ (International Christian Embassy Jerusalem) in October, we hosted thousands of visitors on the Yad Vashem campus.

Everything we have been able to accomplish is only possible because of our supporters in the Christian world. We would love to partner with you and inform you of our projects and needs for 2018. If you are interested in being part of this amazing work, please, write to us: Christian.friends@yadvashem.org.il

You can also donate clicking on the link below and selecting the icon Christian Friends of Yad Vashem situated on the right hand side of the page.

Wishing you Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year 2018!

Susanna Kokkonen