Christians Building Trust in Israel: A Conversation with Tommy Waller

Send us Fan MailHow does a Christian from the hills of Tennessee end up building one of the most respected Christian service organizations in Israel?In this episode of Bridge Builders Forum, Ryan Lambert sits down with Tommy Waller, founder of HaYovel, to discuss the remarkable story of how a family from rural Tennessee became deeply involved in serving Israeli farmers and building relationships with the Jewish people in Israel and around the world.For years, Tommy, his wife Sherri, and the Waller family have mobilized thousands of Christians from around the world to volunteer in Israel through vineyard work, agricultural service, and practical acts of friendship. But this conversation is about much more than farming. It is about trust, reconciliation, and what it looks like for Christians to build meaningful relationships with Jewish people.Tommy shares the origin story of HaYovel, the challenges of earning trust in Israel, the growth of the organization, and the impact of October 7th on both his family and the work they have devoted their lives to. He also reflects on the role of the Waller family in this mission, the next generation’s involvement through projects such as Israel Lighthouse for the Nations and The Israel Guys, and the lessons he has learned from decades of relationship-building.The conversation concludes with Tommy’s thoughts on rising antisemitism, growing hostility toward Israel, practical ways Christians can become bridge-builders in their own communities, and the reasons he remains hopeful about the future of Jewish-Christian relationships.Whether you are passionate about Israel, interested in Jewish-Christian relations, or simply looking for an inspiring story of faithfulness and service, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Learn more about HaYovel: https://www.hayovel.comLearn more about The Israel Guys: https://theisraelguys.com/Bridge Builders ForumAn educational entity dedicated to helping Jews and Christians understand their faith, the Bible, and each other.Bridge Builders Forum Email News and UpdatesDownload the free PDF "Recovering the Jewish Paul: Three Keys to Understanding the Apostle and Building Bridges Between Jews and Christians" The Weird Apostle Ryan's book places the Apostle Paul in his Jewish and Greco-Roman context.Make a tax deductible donation to the Bridge Builders Forum