Messianic Israel Alliance
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The Messianic Israel Alliance (or MIA) serves the Messianic community as an organization for both Jews and non-Jews that follow Jesus and the teachings of the Tanakh. Particular emphasis is placed on the divinity of Jesus, observation of the Sabbath from sundown on Friday to sundown on Saturday, the celebration of the Biblical Festivals, and the dietary laws (Kashrut). Christianity, based on the Pauline epistles, and Judaism have long associated the term "Israel" with their followers. In this light, "Messianic Israel Alliance" was chosen to be more inclusive to non-Jews than a Messianic Jewish title.
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[edit] History
The Messianic Israel Alliance was founded in 1999 as a service organization for Christians who interested in the Hebraic foundations of Christianity. Messianic Judaism had been in existence for some time, but many Hebraic Christians felt a need for a Messianic organization without ethnic and racial boundaries.[citation needed] With this in mind, Angus and Batya Wootten began the MIA as an outreach to both Messianic Jews and non-Jews.
Since that time, the MIA has grown to over 110 congregations in North America with dozens throughout in Europe and Australia. Regional conferences are held throughout the United States, Europe, Canada, and Australia. The continued growth makes the Messianic Israel Alliance the fastest-growing Messianic organization world-wide.
[edit] Beliefs
- Salvation is for All People
- The Deity of Jesus
- Observation of the Tanakh
- Racial discrimination is not tolerable
[edit] Leadership
The Messianic Israel Alliance has several branches of leadership. The Shepherd's Council is the main executive body of the MIA and is comprised of the following individuals:
- Angus and Batya Wootten (MIA Founders)
- Hale Harris (Chief Executive Officer)
- Scott Diffenderfer (Chief Operating Officer)
- Shelly Harris
- Jane Diffenderfer
- John Conrad
- Joie Conrad
The Messianic Israel Alliance also has an Advisory Council that is comprised of approximately 20 members from throughout the organization. The Advisory Council helps to make all broad-reaching decisions regarding the MIA.
