Nourish Your Biblical Roots with Yael Eckstein

International Fellowship of Christians and Jews
  • 4.9 (90)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Biweekly

Explore the ancient Jewish roots of Christianity and their relevance to your life today with podcast host Yael Eckstein, President and CEO of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. Join Yael from the Holy Land as she shares spiritual insights, lessons from the Torah, and conversations about life in Israel. This podcast will take you on a unique journey through the Bible that will deepen your personal connection with Israel and offer you inspirational insights into your Christian faith.

  1. 2d ago

    What Is Purim?

    In this episode of Holy Days, Holy People, we explore Purim—the joyful Jewish celebration of the story found in the Book of Esther—and discover how God is often working behind the scenes… even when we cannot see Him. Fellowship President and CEO Yael Eckstein traces the dramatic Bible story, explaining how God delivered the Jewish people through the courage of Queen Esther and the faith of Mordecai. Along the way, she explores beloved Purim traditions—from costumes and noisemakers to gifts for friends and charity for the poor—and reveals how each points to one powerful truth: God is always at work, even when His hand appears hidden. You’ll also hear timeless teaching from Fellowship Founder Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, of blessed memory, as he recounts the remarkable events of Purim and reflects on God’s perfect justice, providence, and protection throughout history. Bishop Paul Lanier concludes the episode by reminding people of faith that, like Esther, we are called to surrender ourselves to God’s purposes and faithfully stand with His people. The episode also shares the inspiring true story of Esther Cailingold, a young Jewish woman who gave her life defending Jerusalem during Israel’s War of Independence. Like her biblical namesake, Esther Cailingold’s extraordinary courage reminds us that the faith and sacrifice of Queen Esther continue to echo through history, as God raises up ordinary people to write the extraordinary story of His people. Whether Purim is a holiday you’ve celebrated for years or one that you’re discovering for the first time, this podcast will deepen your understanding of this joyful biblical festival, strengthen your confidence in God’s unseen providence, and encourage you to trust that even when He seems hidden, God is faithfully writing your story. Continue your journey through the Bible and the Jewish roots of your faith at The Fellowship’s Learn Center.

    What Is Purim?

  2. Aug 10

    What Is Hanukkah?

    In this episode of Holy Days, Holy People, we explore Hanukkah—the Festival of Lights—and discover why this beloved Jewish holiday continues to inspire hope in every generation. Yael Eckstein traces the remarkable story of the Maccabees, whose faith and courage preserved the worship of the one true God against overwhelming odds. Along the way, she explains the meaning behind the menorah, the miracles of Hanukkah, and what this holiday teaches us about choosing faith over fear and light over darkness. You’ll also hear timeless teachings from Fellowship Founder Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, of blessed memory, as he explores the biblical and historical significance of Hanukkah and its enduring call to rededicate our hearts to God. Bishop Paul Lanier also reflects on why Hanukkah matters to Christians, reminding us that Jesus Himself celebrated the Feast of Dedication and that its message remains deeply relevant today. The episode also shares a moving Hanukkah story from the Holocaust, revealing how light continued to shine even in humanity’s darkest hour. Together, these stories remind us that God’s light cannot be extinguished, His miracles are still worth proclaiming, and even the smallest flame of faith can illuminate the deepest darkness. Whether Hanukkah is familiar to you or completely new, this episode will deepen your understanding of this remarkable holiday, strengthen your faith, and encourage you to become a bearer of God’s light and hope in the world. Continue your journey through the Bible and the Jewish roots of your faith at The Fellowship’s Learn Center.

    What Is Hanukkah?

  3. Aug 3

    What Is Passover?

    Welcome to a new season of Nourish Your Biblical Roots, Holy Days, Holy People. Throughout these eight episodes, Fellowship President and Global CEO Yael Eckstein will guide us through the biblical holidays that have shaped the faith, identity, and history of the Jewish people for thousands of years—and point us back to the God of the Bible today. In this first episode, we begin with Passover (Pesach), the foundational story of God’s redemption. Together we’ll revisit the dramatic night when the Israelites left Egypt, discover why the Exodus remains central to the Jewish faith, and explore the timeless biblical lessons of freedom, remembrance, and faithfulness. You’ll also hear a classic teaching from Fellowship Founder Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, of blessed memory, who explains the biblical origins of Passover, the meaning behind the Seder meal, the symbolism of matzah, and why Jewish families continue to relive the Exodus story in every generation. Then Yael takes us inside a matzah bakery in Israel, where ancient commandments come to life today. She shares how Christians around the world help provide Passover meals to elderly Jews, Holocaust survivors, and families in need—ensuring they can celebrate the holiday with dignity while reminding them they are not alone. Finally, Bishop Paul Lanier reflects on what Passover reveals to Christians and the enduring spiritual bond between Jews and Christians that’s rooted in Scripture. Whether you’ve celebrated Passover for years or are discovering it for the very first time, this episode will help you deepen your understanding of the Bible, strengthen your faith, and experience the enduring hope found in God’s great story of redemption. Continue your journey through the Bible and the Jewish roots of your faith at The Fellowship’s Learn Center.

    What Is Passover?

  4. Jun 22

    Jewish Voices, American Stories: Voices of Faith

    This episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories shares the stories of three American rabbis who helped shape a more inclusive, compassionate, and courageous nation through their convictions and actions. We begin with Rabbi Jacob Frankel, whose appointment as the first Jewish chaplain in the U.S. Army marked a turning point in American history. At a time when Jewish soldiers were excluded from spiritual leadership, Frankel’s service ensured that faith would not be a barrier—but a source of comfort, dignity, and belonging, even in the darkest moments of the Civil War. Next, we meet Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, who believed that faith must be lived out through action. Marching alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rabbi Heschel showed that standing against hatred is not optional—it is a calling rooted in faith. Finally, we reflect on the life and legacy of Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein, founder of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. Through his vision, relationships once marked by distance became bridges of fellowship and understanding—uniting people of faith around the world. These stories remind us that faith is not meant to remain private or passive. It is meant to move us—to stand together, to serve others, and to build bridges when and where they are needed most. To learn more about God’s people—from the days of the Bible through the present—visit The Fellowship’s Learn Center.

    Jewish Voices, American Stories: Voices of Faith

  5. Jun 15

    Jewish Voices, American Stories: Healing the World

    This episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories explores how Jewish-American scientists and doctors helped change the course of history—bringing healing, hope, and life to millions. We begin with Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin, two brilliant scientists whose breakthroughs in the fight against polio transformed one of America’s greatest fears into one of its greatest public health victories. At a time when families lived in dread of the disease, their vaccines brought relief, protection, and a future free from fear—and they chose to share their discoveries not for profit, but for the good of humanity. Next, we meet Dr. Henry Heimlich, whose simple yet lifesaving maneuver empowered ordinary people to act in moments of crisis. His work reminds us that sometimes the difference between life and death comes down to knowledge—shared, practical, and ready in an instant. Finally, we turn to two of the most influential scientific minds of the modern era: Albert Einstein and Richard Feynman. Their discoveries reshaped how we understand the universe, while also raising profound questions about responsibility, ethics, and the power of knowledge. From the atomic age to the space age, their work helped define the modern world. These stories reflect a deeply rooted value in Jewish tradition: the call to pursue knowledge, to ask questions, and to use what we learn to better the world. And through these individuals, we see how science—guided by purpose and responsibility—can truly help heal the world. To learn more about God’s people—from the days of the Bible through the present—visit The Fellowship’s Learn Center.

    Jewish Voices, American Stories: Healing the World

  6. Jun 8

    Jewish Voices, American Stories: The Gift of Laughter

    This episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories looks at God’s gift of laughter—and how Jewish comedians have helped bring joy, resilience, and connection to American life. We begin with the Marx Brothers, a family of immigrant performers whose quick wit, physical comedy, and unforgettable characters helped define American humor. In times of hardship and uncertainty, their laughter offered something more than entertainment—it offered relief, creativity, and even healing. Next, we meet Gene Wilder and Gilda Radner, two performers whose comedy made audiences laugh while also touching the heart. From The Producers to Saturday Night Live, their work reflected a uniquely human kind of humor—one rooted in vulnerability, love, and the ability to bring light into life’s hardest moments. Finally, we hear a personal reflection on Adam Sandler, a comedian whose work has connected generations. From the playful humor of his early career to the deeper themes in his later roles, Sandler’s voice has helped make Jewish identity visible, relatable, and joyful—reminding us that laughter can build bridges in unexpected ways. These stories remind us that laughter is more than just humor. It’s resilience. It’s connection. And sometimes, it’s exactly what we need to carry us through—and bring us closer together. To learn more about God’s people—from the days of the Bible through the present—visit The Fellowship’s Learn Center.

    Jewish Voices, American Stories: The Gift of Laughter

  7. Jun 1

    Jewish Voices, American Stories: Stories to Remember

    This episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories reflects on moments of tragedy that have shaped both the Jewish experience and the American story—reminding us why memory, compassion, and courage matter. We begin with the Titanic, where amid one of history’s most famous disasters, a remarkable love story unfolded. Isidor and Ida Straus—partners in life for more than forty years—chose to remain together as the ship sank, leaving behind a legacy of devotion that echoes the enduring words: “Many waters cannot quench love.” Next, we turn to the voyage of the St. Louis, a ship carrying nearly a thousand Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi persecution. Denied refuge by multiple nations, many of its passengers were ultimately forced back to Europe—where hundreds would later perish in the Holocaust. Their story stands as a sobering reminder of the cost of indifference and the consequences of closed doors. Finally, we remember the 2018 attack on the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh—a tragedy that shook the nation and the world. In the face of unimaginable loss, the response called people of faith to something deeper: not only to mourn, but to stand together against hatred and to pursue peace. These stories are difficult. But they are necessary. To remember is to honor those who were lost… and to commit ourselves to building a world where faith is protected, hatred is confronted, and life is valued. To learn more about God’s people—from the days of the Bible through the present—visit The Fellowship’s Learn Center.

    Jewish Voices, American Stories: Stories to Remember

  8. May 25

    Jewish Voices, American Stories: In the Beginning

    This episode of Jewish Voices, American Stories takes us back to the earliest chapters of American history—long before Ellis Island—when Jewish life was already taking root in a new and uncertain nation. We begin at Touro Synagogue—the oldest synagogue in the United States. Built by a small community seeking religious freedom, it stands as a lasting symbol of a promise that would define America: that people of all faiths could worship freely and live without fear. That promise was powerfully affirmed in 1790, when President George Washington declared that the new nation would give “to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance.” From there, we move to the front lines of the American Revolution. Jimmy introduces us to Francis Salvador, the first known Jewish patriot to give his life for American independence—a man who chose to fight for a nation still being born, believing in its promise of liberty and opportunity. Finally, we meet Solomon Bush, a Jewish officer in George Washington’s army who was wounded at the Battle of Brandywine and later played a role in uncovering a threat within the Continental forces. His story is a powerful reminder that the fight for freedom was carried not only by generals and statesmen, but by ordinary individuals willing to sacrifice everything. These stories reveal a profound truth: from the very beginning, Jewish Americans were not outsiders to the American story—they were part of it. Building communities. Serving their country. And helping shape a nation founded on faith, freedom, and hope. To learn more about God’s people—from the days of the Bible through the present—visit The Fellowship’s Learn Center.

    Jewish Voices, American Stories: In the Beginning
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Explore the ancient Jewish roots of Christianity and their relevance to your life today with podcast host Yael Eckstein, President and CEO of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. Join Yael from the Holy Land as she shares spiritual insights, lessons from the Torah, and conversations about life in Israel. This podcast will take you on a unique journey through the Bible that will deepen your personal connection with Israel and offer you inspirational insights into your Christian faith.

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