Stranded in the Midst of Conflict
A group of 40 church members from Calvary Chapel Summerville in South Carolina found themselves stranded in Israel after the outbreak of war in the Middle East. The group, which had traveled to Israel to walk in the footsteps of biblical figures, was preparing to board a flight back to the U.S. when alarms went off, signaling the beginning of a full-scale conflict. They were immediately directed to bomb shelters as the situation escalated.
Seeking Shelter Amid Explosions
The group’s ordeal was marked by frequent trips to bomb shelters, with members seeking safety over 30 times in a single day as explosions and airstrikes reverberated around them. Pastor Vic Carroll described the experience as “surreal,” recalling the moments when they rushed to shelters just before hearing the blasts. Despite the fear, the group maintained their composure and stayed together, relying on their faith to see them through the terrifying situation.
Faith in the Face of Danger
Throughout the crisis, Assistant Pastor Charles Timmerman emphasized the importance of faith. “We trust in God, even in the midst of danger,” he said. The group’s strong sense of community and belief helped them endure the perilous circumstances. By March 2, all members of the group were reported safe, though their extended stay in Israel and altered travel plans left them with additional financial burdens.
Fundraising Effort to Cover Costs
To help cover the costs of hotel stays and new travel arrangements, a GoFundMe campaign was launched. The fundraiser quickly reached its goal of $100,000—approximately $2,500 per person—allowing the group to make necessary adjustments and stay safe while awaiting their return home.
Background of the Conflict
The group’s situation unfolded against the backdrop of the growing Iran conflict, which the U.S. government has designated “Operation Epic Fury.” As of March 4, the death toll from the conflict had risen to over 1,000, including six U.S. service members who were killed in a retaliatory drone strike in Kuwait. The ongoing violence has added a layer of uncertainty for many, including the stranded church group, who found themselves caught in the middle of a rapidly escalating war.
