June Douglas Hamilton
Faans Klopper, a board member of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, used to take an annual tour to Israel for the Feast of Tabernacles, and June Douglas Hamilton accompanied him on many such tours.
She also sponsored people who could not afford the tours. In 1996 June kindly sponsored Rose McKenna on a tour, where Rose saw people protesting in Jerusalem outside the President’s house. The next morning Rose woke up with a revelation to take Israel to the streets.
On her return to Cape Town, Rose did just that. Together with Emmy Goodenough and Pierre De Jager, they started standing outside Parliament with Israeli flags and quotes from the Bible. For the past 24 years these avid Christian Zionists and Jewish supporters have continued to stand every single Friday lunchtime, come rain or shine, outside parliament until COVID-19 set in.
June also sponsored people to attend prayer meetings held in different countries each year. She was philanthropy personified and although always keeping a low profile, she was a dynamic person in heart and soul.
On one occasion she met an Israeli, Avi Givati, who wanted to open a rehabilitation centre for children. June made Avi’s dream a reality by donating generously. This home in Haifa is still in existence today.
June passed away a week before her 91st birthday and she will be sorely missed. A true ESHET CHAYIL!
Pat Rolleston
South African Friends of Israel and the South African Zionist Federation are deeply saddened by the untimely passing of a gentle giant, a man in a million, on 19 June 2020.
Patrick Rolleston was a man of deep religious conviction and an unequivocal supporter of Israel and the Jewish people. He was never too scared to stand up for what he believed. Pat organised amazing events including many Nights to Honor Israel and 6 Million Reasons why we say Never, Never Again!.
He worked hard to raise funds for a medi-cycle for Israel and also took part in a Standing with Israel run from Gardens Shul to Claremont Shul along the Main Road. Another real highlight was a motorbike cavalcade including both Jewish and Christian riders who proudly adorned their bikes with Israeli flags and rode from Desire for All Nations Church to Aquila Game Reserve.
Every event he organised was extremely well attended and it is clear that through his work and devotion to Israel, Patrick inspired many.
Our thoughts are with his incredibly supportive wife, Elaine and his children Jill, Lauren and Robyn and all their families who have lost an incredible man of valour.
We will miss Patrick’s beautiful smile and many words of encouragement. There is definitely another angel in heaven who will watch over us.
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