CHURCH IN TEXAS OPENS DOORS TO PROVIDE SUPPORT TO FAMILIES AFFECTED BY ISRAEL-HAMAS HOSTAGE CRISIS

By Samantha Kamman, Christian Post Reporter Sunday, February 04, 2024

Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas, played host to Liel Slifer, the cousin of Carmel Gat, and Dalia Cusnir, the sister-in-law of Eitan and Yair Horn, individuals held captive by Hamas. Last Sunday, the two women joined Pastor Jeremiah Johnston on stage to share their relatives' stories and advocate for continued support for the hostages.

As part of a delegation of hostage family members visiting Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, Slifer and Cusnir engaged with state legislators, businesses, and religious communities to raise awareness about the over 130 victims still held by Hamas.

Liel Slifer conveyed the ongoing struggle her family faces, emphasising that the impact of the October 7 attacks by Hamas continues to reverberate daily. She stressed that this issue transcends politics and religion, framing it as a battle between good and evil and urging the congregation to remain vocal and supportive.

On October 7, Hamas launched attacks against Israel, resulting in the deaths of at least 1,200 people, including civilians, and the abduction of around 240 individuals. Over 130 men, women, and children remain in captivity.

During her presentation at Prestonwood, Slifer shared personal details about her cousin, Carmel Gat, a 39-year-old occupational therapist who has been held captive since the attacks. While Gat wasn't among those released during a temporary ceasefire, children who were released alongside her shared that Gat had been held with them. Gat reportedly engaged in activities like yoga to help ease the minds of the children, assuring them that she was safe and healthy.

Dalia Cusnir, sister-in-law to Eitan and Yair Horn, spoke of the events leading to their capture. She recounted how the brothers had assured their safety during the initial attacks but later stopped responding to calls. The IDF informed Cusnir and her husband that the brothers were taken hostage, and their fate remains uncertain.

Both women emphasised that the situation requires global attention and urged Christians to actively engage in discussions about Israel and show support online. They stressed the need for continual advocacy, reinforcing that the impact extends beyond their families and resonates globally.

Reports suggest that Hamas leaders are considering a new ceasefire proposal, potentially leading to the release of more hostages. The ongoing efforts by families and the global community underscore the urgency of the situation and the need for concerted support.

News Sources : https://www.christianpost.com/news/texas-church-hosts-relatives-of-israeli-hostage-victims.html?clickType=link-topbar-news