Yisrael

Yisrael was born in Russia, he moved to Israel with his family at four years old. Life in Israel was largely secular, but as he grew older, Yisrael felt a deep pull to reconnect with his Jewish heritage. That pull led him to enroll in a Jewish seminary during his military service, embracing an Orthodox Jewish lifestyle. Yet, even with this commitment, something vital felt missing.

During his time in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Yisrael encountered the New Testament for the first time—in Hebrew. What he read amazed him. He saw profound connections between the Tanakh (Old Testament) and the promises fulfilled in Yeshua (Jesus). After years of searching, in 2014, Yisrael came to believe that Jesus is the Messiah of Israel. This truth transformed his life in ways he couldn’t have imagined.

For several years, Yisrael worked in the military industry while becoming an active member of a local community of believers. But over time, a deeper calling began to stir—a conviction that he was meant to serve the Kingdom in a more profound way. Trusting in God’s guidance, he stepped out in faith and made the decision to leave Israel and pursue formal seminary training in New York.

Today, Yisrael is working toward his Master of Divinity at the Charles L. Feinberg Center for Messianic Jewish Studies. He is refining his skills to teach, mentor, and build connections with people from all walks of life. Yisrael is not on this journey alone. He’s supported by Elise, his wife and partner in both life and ministry. Together, they are raising two lively boys—Yoav and Reuven—who fill their days with energy, joy, and endless lessons in patience.

At his core, Yisrael is passionate about building bridges: between Jewish and Gentile communities, between faith and culture, and between the wisdom of ancient texts and the challenges of modern life. He’s learned that faith isn’t about having all the answers but about seeking truth with humility and sharing it with openness. His journey reflects a life dedicated to growth, connection, and the hope of something greater.