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As tensions in Israel continue to escalate following a new round of missile attacks from Iran, a mother in Niverville, Man., is holding onto her faith as her son remains in the region, dedicated to his mission of service and spreading the good news of Jesus.
Denise Cornish’s 21-year-old son, Jonah, has been living in Israel for over a year, serving as part of the Zealous Project, a program run by Bridges for Peace. The Christian organization works to build relationships between Christians and Jews in Israel and around the world.
Jonah initially travelled to Israel in August 2023, intending to stay for 11 months. However, his plans changed when conflict erupted on October 7 of that year.
“We were visiting family in Saskatchewan for Thanksgiving when the first attacks happened,” Cornish said. “Jonah texted us saying they just saw the Iron Dome in action, and I immediately called him. As we spoke, the sirens went off again, and they had to take shelter. They went back and forth to the bomb shelter eight times that day.”
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Despite the fear and uncertainty, Jonah felt called to stay. “He told us he wanted to continue serving in Israel,” Cornish explained, “even though I really wanted him to come home.”
Since then, Jonah has remained in Israel, even returning to Manitoba for a brief visit before heading back in September to begin another 11 months of volunteer work. His decision to stay during this volatile time has been grounded in his faith.
Cornish shared that Jonah has found a community of like-minded individuals who pray constantly and offer spiritual support. “He has complete peace about being there,” Cornish said. “He feels he has found a purpose bigger than himself, and he is receiving strength from the Lord.”
"There are so many innocent people caught up in this conflict who don’t want to be part of it."
Earlier this week, as Iran launched 181 missiles toward Israel, Jonah once again found himself seeking refuge in bomb shelters. “This is becoming their reality,” Cornish said. “They have bags packed and water ready. They know what to do when the sirens go off.”
For Cornish, her son’s continued presence in a war-torn region has been a test of faith. “After the first attacks last year, I didn’t have peace for two weeks,” she said. “But I kept praying and felt God give me an image of Him holding Jonah as a newborn baby. It brought me so much peace, and I’ve held onto that ever since.”
As the conflict rages on, Cornish asks for continued prayers not only for her son but for the people of Israel and the surrounding nations. “Psalm 122 calls us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem,” she said. “There are so many innocent people caught up in this conflict who don’t want to be part of it. We need to pray for God’s protection and justice for everyone involved.”
Cornish hopes her story encourages others to pray for peace and seek God's guidance during these uncertain times.