By ICEJ Staff Writers 

Forty Jewish teenagers recently arrived in Israel on ICEJ-supported Aliyah flights in partnership with the Jewish Agency to begin the SELA University preparatory program, the first step toward studying and becoming Israeli citizens. 

As the prophet Isaiah foretold, God is still gathering His sons and daughters from afar—a promise now lived out by a new generation of young Jews returning home. 

Their journey is one of faith and courage. Leaving family and friends at 17 or 18 to learn a new language and navigate a new culture is a major step. To do so while the nation is engaged in a struggle for its security requires a special kind of determination.  

SELA, meaning “rock” in Hebrew, is a ten-month preparatory program run by the Jewish Agency for Israel. It is designed specifically for young immigrants from the Diaspora, many of whom come from Russian-speaking homes, who plan to attend Israeli universities. For 15 years, the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem has helped these students, providing the support that turns their aspirations into achievements.

A Framework for Success 

The SELA program is built on the understanding that successful integration requires more than just a university acceptance letter. It is about building a life. 

Operating from student centers in Nitzan and Karmiel, the program offers a full-immersion experience. Students live together, forming immediate connections with peers who understand their journey. On-site staff, many of whom made the same journey from the Former Soviet Union, provide guidance and understanding. 

From Chedva, Director of the Karmiel Aliyah Center, home to the northern Sela group: 

“My heart expands anew every year with the arrival of the Sela participants. We have been blessed by them, and especially the State of Israel and Israeli society have been blessed by them. This year, they are a group of 46, and this year, for me, the program is a Sela Boutique, a small, high-quality group. Amazing that despite the war and the misinformation spread on Israel around the world, these faith-filled teens found their way home to us.” 

The program’s structure is intentionally thorough. Students receive 700 hours of Hebrew, academic prep for entrance exams, and guidance in Jewish heritage and identity—equipping them not only for university, but for life in Israel. 

The Ripple Effect of a Single Decision 

The impact of this program extends beyond the individual student. Perhaps the most powerful statistic is this: about 60% of SELA students’ parents eventually follow their children to Israel.  

By investing in a young person, we are often facilitating the reunification of an entire family, strengthening Israel’s social and demographic future. 

This effect has become even more significant since the war began on October 7. Contrary to what some might expect, the Jewish Agency reports that nearly one-third of immigrants this past year have been between the ages of 18 and 35. As Doron Almog, Chairman of the Jewish Agency, has stated, this wartime Aliyah is “a living example of unconditional love for the State of Israel” that “boosts resilience and will contribute to rebuilding the country.” 

The ICEJ Partnership: Walking the Path with Them 

“I have been looking for a place for a long time where I can feel like myself,” Irina, one of the students, discovered a new sense of belonging: “I think I found it on the Sela program!” 

These young people are the future. They will be Israel’s engineers, teachers, doctors and leaders.  

Supporting the SELA program is one of the most direct ways for Christians worldwide to stand in practical solidarity with Israel. We are not just observing prophecy; we are participating in its fulfilment, helping to build a firm “rock” for the next generation. 

As these young olim step into their destiny, they carry a powerful message. In the words of another student, Sonia: “In Israel, all our dreams can come true if we have the courage to make them come true.” 

Through SELA, and with your support, we can help make those dreams a reality. Please consider giving to our Aliyah fund at: help.icej.org/aliyah 

Cover Photo Credits: JAFI (Faces blurred for privacy reasons.)