Because of the pioneering work of English church reformers such as Wycliffe and Tyndale who translated the Bible into vernacular English, Christians in England became familiar with the Bible, its teachings, and the special role God planned for His covenant people Israel. It was no coincidence that CMJ was established in England in 1809 by prominent Christians.    

From the beginning CMJ was aware that God had promised to bring Israel back to its God, Messiah and land.  Seeing the oppression and persecution of the Jewish people, CMJ began a ministry to relieve the suffering of the Jewish people through charity at local levels, political activism in the highest echelons of the British government, and proclaiming the Gospel of God's Kingdom.  The Good News of His love for mankind and the ultimate consummation of His reign on the earth included the promised restoration of His covenant people to their calling.    

CMJ set up mission stations throughout the world.  Schools, churches, clinics, hospitals, printing presses and bookshops were established primarily in Europe and the Middle East to help alleviate the suffering of the Jewish people.  CMJ staff were instrumental in combating anti-semitism, and Christians in the British government (many involved with CMJ such as Wilberforce and Shaftesbury) played a key role in the Jewish return to the Land of Israel.   CMJ not only built the first Protestant church in the Middle East, Christ Church Jerusalem, but also the first schools, the first houses of industry for job training, and the first hospital with state-of-the-art equipment and medicine, all of which which helped bring modern standards of health, welfare, and education to the area.  

CMJ in Israel continues its ministry of being a witness to both Jews and Gentiles of God's love and faithfulness as found in Jesus the Messiah.  Today we express this in many practical ways:  supporting and educating local believers, praying for the peace of Jerusalem, combating anti-semitism, teaching Christians about their Jewish Roots, and proclaiming the return of the King. 

Please read our Statement on Israel and the Palestinians.