Shabbat Morning – February 28, 2026
On Saturday, February 28, 2026, during our Shabbat morning service, Beth Israel Messianic Synagogue experienced a beautiful convergence of joy, courage, creativity, and calling. Our sanctuary was filled to capacity as we celebrated Purim together and held a very special Send Out Shabbat for three of our own young adults who are preparing to serve in Israel this summer.
It was a day marked by laughter, worship, prayer, generosity, and deep gratitude to the Lord.
Celebrating Purim with Joy
Purim reminds us that the Lord overturned the plans of Haman and preserved the Jewish people through the courage of Queen Esther. We celebrate not only a historical victory, but the enduring faithfulness of God to Israel.
This year’s celebration was vibrant and full of life.
We were blessed to watch an outstanding stop-motion LEGO retelling of the story of Esther, created by Brendan Roes. The video brought the Purim story to life in a creative and engaging way, reminding us of Esther’s bravery and the Lord’s sovereign hand at work behind the scenes.
The congregation entered into the joy of the holiday wholeheartedly. Many came dressed in wonderful and imaginative costumes, adding color and delight to the service. The atmosphere was festive yet reverent, joyful yet deeply meaningful.
After the service, we gathered for an exceptional Oneg in the Shalom Center. Tables were filled with:
- Traditional hamantaschen
- Creative hamantaschen-shaped empanadas
- Fresh, delicious salads
- Slushies and sweet treats
- Abundant fellowship and laughter
It was a packed house. Families, children, longtime members, and visitors all shared in the celebration together. It truly felt like mishpocha.
Sending the Next Generation to Israel
Woven beautifully into our Purim celebration was Send Out Shabbat, as we recognized and prayed over three young adults who will be traveling to Israel this summer on the Experience Israel ministry and service trip:
- Jhoanna Romero-Morquecho
- Audrey Roes
- Brendan Roes
Each of these young people has been raised in our congregation from infancy. We have watched them grow in faith, character, and love for the Jewish people. Now, as young adults, they sense the Lord’s calling to serve in the Land of Israel.
During the service, we heard from each of them personally. They shared Scriptures the Lord has spoken to their hearts, what they are praying for, and how they hope to serve. Their words reflected humility, sincerity, and a genuine desire to be a blessing.
This ministry trip, sponsored by the YMJA under the covering of the Messianic Jewish Alliance of America (MJAA) MJAA Statement of Faith and the International Alliance of Messianic Congregations and Synagogues (IAMCS) IAMCS Statement of Beliefs, will include:
- Serving with The Joseph Project
- Assisting Messianic congregations and synagogues in Israel
- Equipping bomb shelters
- Participating in outreach and hands-on service
- Building relationships with Messianic youth from the U.S. and Canada
As a congregation affiliated with these organizations BIMS Identity Statement, we rejoice to see our next generation stepping into active service.
From Esther’s Courage to Today’s Calling
It felt especially meaningful that Send Out Shabbat took place on Purim.
Esther said, “If I perish, I perish,” and stepped forward in obedience for the sake of her people. On this same day of remembrance and celebration, we watched three young adults step forward in their own season of calling.
After they shared, the congregation gathered around them. We laid hands on them, prayed blessings over them, and asked the Lord to go before them. It was a sacred and tender moment.
Just as Purim reminds us that God works through willing hearts, we are witnessing Him raise up a generation willing to serve.
Partnering in Prayer and Support
Each participant must raise $3,495 for the trip. All contributions given through Beth Israel will be divided equally among Jhoanna, Audrey, and Brendan.
The response during the service was immediate and heartfelt. As we celebrated God’s deliverance in the days of Esther, we also began sowing into what He is doing today.
If you would like to partner with them financially, you may give online:
→ [Give Here – Select “Experience Israel ministry trip” on the GivingFire platform]
Please choose “Experience Israel ministry trip” from the dropdown menu on the Giving Fire page.
Most importantly, we ask you to pray. Pray for provision. Pray for unity. Pray for divine appointments in Israel. Pray that their time in the Land would mark them for a lifetime of service.
Purim is a story of hidden providence, courageous obedience, and joyful victory.
Send Out Shabbat was a reminder that the story continues.
We are grateful to celebrate together. We are grateful to send together. And we are grateful to serve the God of Israel together.
Chag Purim Sameach from Beth Israel Messianic Synagogue.
