Derek was a young Christian who had grown up hearing about Israel — through the news, through Scripture, through conversations at church. But like many young believers, his understanding of the land where the Bible unfolded was distant and abstract. He knew Israel mattered. He simply hadn’t yet experienced why.

Shortly after graduating from Liberty University, Derek stepped into an intense new career — training drone pilots whose work would affect real lives in real conflict zones. It was a sudden leap from a sheltered Christian academic environment into the weighty realities of the world. The responsibility was heavy, and the stakes were high.

It was at exactly that moment that Derek traveled to Israel with our Covenant Journey ministry. What he encountered in Israel changed him, and girded his loins for the war that was to come.

Walking the land of the Bible alongside other young Christians who were serious about following God gave Derek something steady to stand on. One moment in particular stayed with him: early morning worship on the Sea of Galilee. Surrounded by Scripture, history, and praise, Derek described it as deeply refreshing — something his soul desperately needed before returning to an intense and demanding calling — training the very pilots who might one day use their drone skills to defend Israel.

Israel made the Bible real in a way books never could.

Today, Derek builds close relationships with those he trains, guiding them with care and conviction. His faith, anchored in Israel, now overflows into leadership, humility, and service in the lives of others.

This is what your support accomplishes.

When you help send a young Christian to Israel, you are not funding a vacation. You are planting a foundation — one that shapes character, strengthens faith, and prepares future leaders to walk with clarity in a complicated world.

The more seasoned among us understand what it means to invest in something that lasts.

Would you consider doing that today?

Send another young Christian like Derek to Israel. 
Your gift supports travel, on-site biblical teaching, and life-changing encounters with God’s Word in the Holy Land. Your generosity will leave a lasting legacy in a life shaped by faith, truth, and responsibility.

Because someone once invested in Derek, countless others are now impacted through him. Please give generously today.

Mat Staver
Founder and Chairman
Liberty Counsel

Many supporters choose to give monthly, helping provide scholarships for students to experience Israel through Covenant Journey. Even a small recurring gift can help raise the next generation of Christian leaders.