Isn’t it fascinating how a small gathering can transform into something significant? Congregation Roeh Israel’s story embodies that very idea. It is a Messianic Jewish congregation.
Eliezer Urbach, while working for Chosen People Ministries, initiated this congregation. It began modestly. It was a small home fellowship. The fellowship quickly expanded. Within a few years, the group outgrew Eliezer’s living room.
In 1980, he felt divinely inspired to establish an independent congregation. Thus, Congregation Roeh Israel was born. Then in 1985, Burt Yellin was called to be the Pastor/Rabbi. He still serves the Lord today. Bill Berg became the Associate Pastor in 1991. He served until his passing in December 2018.
Initially, Congregation Roeh Israel aimed to provide a comfortable space. It was a space for Jewish people who believed in Yeshua which is Jesus. They could express their faith in a Jewish way. However, God moved many Gentiles to worship there too. This union of Jew and Gentile became a blessed aspect. It became a supernatural part of the Messianic Movement.
The growth of Congregation Roeh Israel reflects God’s blessing. When it began, it was the only Messianic congregation in Denver. Now, there are over a dozen Messianic-oriented congregations in Denver. Plus, there are more in other cities and towns throughout Colorado.
The Messianic Judaism’s growth extends beyond the United States and Canada. Israel has also seen a similar rise in the movement. Approximately 40 congregations from Haifa to Eilat proclaim the good news. “Yeshua hu Adon” means Jesus He is Lord.
Congregation Roeh Israel believes it is part of an end-times movement. It is a movement of God to restore His people to true faith. They declare “Baruch haba b’shem Adonai”. It means Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.
Today, Congregation Roeh Israel is a thriving community. It includes both Jewish and Gentile believers in Yeshua the Messiah. What started as a small fellowship has grown to about 300 people. Services are held on Fridays at 7:00 pm for Erev Shabbat. Shabbat Service is on Saturdays at 9:45 am.
Congregation Roeh Israel also extends its reach through technology. You can listen to their podcasts. Congregational leader Burt Yellin and guest speakers share the Word of God. They share it in a Jewish context.
Congregation Roeh Israel stands as a testament to faith. It also highlights community and the remarkable ways it can flourish. It began with a small group. It has now become a beacon of Messianic Judaism in Denver and beyond. It demonstrates a vision of unity and spiritual growth.