Powerful «Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast» in New York as UN General Assembly unfolds

IN NEW YORK: Knesset member Ohad Tal with his wife Tamar had a cordial chat with Jan-Aage Torp. Credits: Oslokirken

As Norge Idag wrote last week, pastor Jan-Aage Torp has been an observer during the UN General Assembly at the weekend as part of a European Christian conservative network, although this network does not have the same attitude towards Israel as Torp.

- We collaborate on many important ideological issues, and then it is no problem for them that I get to benefit from their official status in the UN on an issue that is crucially important to the European Apostolic Leaders (EAL), but which they do not fully agree in. Being president of EAL opens many doors, Jan-Aage tells Norge Idag.

FROM ISRAEL: Yair Netanyahu in a jovial chat with the «Norway friend» Cornelis Kant and Jan-Aage Torp. Credits: David Vandeputte

- Being an observer means little to the outcome of Israel votes in the General Assembly and the Security Council, but it gives credibility when we actually participate where decisions are made, says Torp and recalls the legendary Norwegian preacher Rein Seehus, who played a significant role in the UN when Israel's status was to be determined after the Second World War.

He emphasizes that it is not enough to shout, if you intend to influence the decisions.

At the UN, Torp had meetings with European representatives who exchanged knowledge and insight with him. But he is particularly excited about being a participant in the "Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast" (JPB), which was held a block away from the UN headquarters on Sunday and Monday.

PRAYER: Jan-Aage Torp was one of five international leaders who led in prayer on Monday night. Credits: Haakon Sengsvoll

- There was a strong presence of the Holy Spirit when we prayed together, says Torp, who was the only Norwegian who led in prayer from the podium.

- I was allowed to lead in prayer for Norway and Europe in relation to Israel. It is powerful to pray together with 250 participants from 30 nations, he says.

- JPB's leader, the Jew Albert Veksler, led the whole thing with prophetic weight. I believe our prayers have already brought change in the spiritual world for Israel! The nations will be surprised to see that the Lord defends Israel. The combined prayers of Jews and Christians change the world situation!

Torp emphasizes that it was particularly impacting to be with friends who are Knesset representatives, and other European and Nordic leaders.

- I also had a good conversation with Yair Netanyahu, son of the Prime Minister of Israel. He talked about his love for Norway.