Israel Christian Nexus Announces New Leadership Team

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 18, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Following the passing of its founder, Gen. Shimon Erem (IDF-ret.), the Israel Christian Nexus (ICN) announced a new leadership team dedicated to carrying forward the work he pioneered -- bringing together the Jewish and Christian communities in support of Israel. Dr. Jack Hayford will serve as ICN Chairman and Jacob Dayan, former Israeli Consul General to the Southwestern U.S., has been named President. Pat Boone will serve as Special Emissary for the Nexus, Patricia Johnson as Executive Director, and Gen. Erem's widow Danielle on the Board of Directors.

"It was Shimon's wish that the Israel Christian Nexus continue long after his passing, and that it would grow and build on the foundation he established," said Danielle Erem "He spoke often of his vision for a strategic leadership team involving these internationally respected individuals."

A hero and friend to world leaders, Shimon Erem played a crucial role in the founding and survival of the State of Israel, commanding troops in Israel's War of Independence, the Sinai crisis, Six Day War and Yom Kippur War. The last 35 years of his life were dedicated to building bridges between Jews and Christians in support of Israel. His work continues under the direction of ICN's new leadership team.

Dr. Jack Hayford -- One of the world's most respected Christian leaders, Jack Hayford was founding co-chair of the ICN with Gen Erem. Immediate Past President of the Foursquare International denomination with its 38,000 worldwide churches, Dr. Hayford is the founding pastor of the 12,000 member The Church On The Way in Van Nuys, California, and founder of The Kings' University in Los Angeles. He is a recognized scholar on Israel and Bible history.

"It is a great testament to the vision and labors of Shimon Erem that the Israel Christian Nexus continues to move forward with the many gifted leaders who have committed to serve on its Board of Directors," said Pastor Hayford. "I am especially grateful that Jacob Dayan will be joining me in the leadership of the organization."

Jacob Dayan served as Israel's Consul General to the Southwestern U.S. from 2007-2011, working with the ICN on numerous activities.

"I am honored to be part of this great mission started by Shimon Erem to enhance Israel's relations with its Christian partners," he said. "Today, more than ever, we must stand together ... to strengthen the State of Israel and the values Christians and Jews together represent."

Before becoming Israel's chief diplomat in Los Angeles, Mr. Dayan served in high-level foreign affairs posts in Israel, Washington, DC and Greece. He leads in Israel a venture capital fund that invests in projects in the Negev.

Entertainer Pat Boone has been a strong supporter of Israel for decades. In 1979, he was honored by the State of Israel with the Israel Culture Award for his artistry and humanitarianism. He has led numerous tours to Israel for the Christian Broadcasting Network, and was named Christian Ambassador to Israel by the Israeli Tourism Department.

Newly named to the ICN Board are Pastors Che Ahn, Danny DeLeon, Jack Hibbs and Toure Roberts, Rev. Roberta Hromas, Rabbi Kalman Topp and Jewish community leader Miri Shepher. Robert Stearns and Chuck Smith are Special Advisors.

About the Israel Christian Nexus

The Israel Christian Nexus (ICN) is a nonprofit 501 (c) (3) organization founded in 2002 and supported by donations from those sharing a concern for Israel's security and interested in building relationships between Christians and Jews in support of our shared Judeo-Christian heritage and values. Visit the ICN for more information.