MINISTRY UPDATE - JUNE 2026

In March I returned to the Central North Island together with our Australian intern Jordan Dorr for our "Meet at the Mountain" hosting initiative. Over four amazing weeks we welcomed more than 50 young Israelis. We shared meaningful conversations of faith and life over shared meals and helped them to/from the Tongariro Crossing.

God provided new accommodation for us at Blue Mountain Adventure Centre at Raurimu where we, and most importantly our special guests were warmly welcomed. The Israelis were amazed at the incredible facilities and great hospitality provided for them. One young guy from Samaria jumped from his van, and before we'd even exchanged pleasantries asked "why are you doing this?" He thought there was a catch, who would do this for them. Together with his wife they were amazed when we shared that this was a gift from people who love and stand with Israel. The reality that people care for the Jewish people was refreshing to this young couple in the face of such rampant antisemitism seen around the world. The Lord opened the door for deep spiritual conversations not only with this couple, but almost every guest who stayed with us.

FOI Executive Director Visit

Earlier in the year we were pleased to welcome FOI Executive Director Steve Conover and his wife, Beth to NZ and Australia. Their brief trip "down under" served as an orientation for Steve as he begins his leadership tenure of FOI's global mission.

Simon, together with Steve & Beth Conover and our Auckland office Administrator Cassy Vivian.

FOI-NZ Board Meeting

The FOI-NZ Board met on 2 Jun 2026 to evaluate and approve our Performance Report, which has been submitted to Charity Services as we do each each year. During this meeting, I provided an update on Gaze Burts Lawyers' review of our Trust Deeds, an important step in our commitment to the regular assessment of the Trust's governing documents and policies. The Board expressed great satisfaction with the operational efficiency of the New Zealand mission and confirmed that our financial position remains strong.

We continue to give thanks for Gods provision for the mission and the various projects and needs that support Israel and the Jewish people. We also give thanks for our growing number of supporters who faithfully give on a regular basis. While we are not a large mission in New Zealand, we are so thankful for the Lord's sustenance and continued incremental growth this past year.

Ongoing Ministry

Our prayers persist for God to provide the right workers, particularly a leader for our New Zealand mission who possesses a genuine heart for Israel and the Jewish people. Though we have interviewed numerous candidates, finding the right fit has proven challenging. While we held hope for certain individuals, some did not feel the necessary peace or passion for this specific calling, while theological differences prevented us moving forward with others. Nevertheless, we trust in our merciful God, approaching Him with confidence that His grace will sustain us and provide in His perfect timing.

Lord willing, I plan to return to New Zealand in late September to speak in churches and connect with our supporters and potential workers. Before that, in mid-July I will be attending our annual staff conference in Adelaide, which will be followed by a period of long service leave. Currently, my focus is on several key initiatives, specifically the digital systems for both the Australian and New Zealand missions to improve our online user experience and the launch of our new NZ website. This work is particularly important for the Australian mission in anticipation of the pending decision for Donee Status.

We are still hoping the door will open for our October tour to Israel, however while travel still remains impossible we continue to take registrations without financial commitment for those who can travel at relatively late notice. Obviously conditions need to improve significantly before the tour can proceed. If you're interested contact me directly. slawry@foi.org

Please continue to pray for Israel as the war with Iran and her proxies Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis continues to keep Israel and the whole Middle East in a state of uncertainty.

Praise God we can trust Him who keeps Israel and is faithful to His promises as revealed in the Scriptures.