THE FEAST TEAM MEMBERS PORTAL

Frequently Asked Questions

Feast Overview

What is the Feast of Tabernacles and why do Christians celebrate it?

The Feast of Tabernacles, or Succot, is a unique Jewish holiday inviting all nations to Jerusalem to worship God during this appointed time (Numbers 29:12-35, 2 Chronicles 6:32-33, Isaiah 56:7, Matthew 21:13). Celebrating with the Jewish people The most visible symbol of Succot is the fragile, small booths around Israel which symbolizes the Israelites' forty years in the Wilderness, when God faithfully provided for them. Jewish families are commanded to dwell in the 'succah' for the eight days of the Feast (Leviticus 23:33-43), and as Christians observing this tradition, we mirror the character of putting our total dependence on a promise-keeping God through the toughest of times. A prophetic promise

Succot holds the great prophetic call that throughout the Messianic Age, the entire world will come celebrate this grand Feast as it marks the glorious moment when Jesus comes to take up the throne of David in Jerusalem. Succot also holds a prophetic significance, marking the Messianic Age and the return of Jesus to the throne of David (Zechariah 14:16).

When is the Feast of Tabernacles 2026?

The Feast itself takes place from 25 September – 30 September 2026. 

What is this year's theme?

"The Lion Roars From Zion" based on Joel 3:16

Where in Israel is the Feast taking place?

South of Israel: Kfar HaNokdim (25 Sep) and Jerusalem (26–30 Sep).

Pre Feast

What's required for me to serve as a Team Member?
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Have made a personal commitment to Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour
  • Realize that this is a ministry unto the Lord and, as such, be willing to accept the spiritual cover and practical leadership of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem and its designated Feast leadership during the season of your service
  • Be able to pay for your own transport to Jerusalem (flight to and from Israel + transport to and from the airport)
  • Be able to pay the required Team Member fee 


What are the team arrival dates and fees?
Arrivals
Dates
Standard       Sharing 
Double Room
Single Room
Arrival 1

Sept 07 - Oct 01

₪ 7,495 NIS

₪ 8,415 NIS 

₪ 11,542 NIS

Arrival 2

Sept 14 - Oct 01

₪ 5,597 NIS

₪ 6,259 NIS

₪ 8,511 NIS

Arrival 3

Sept 17 - Oct 01

₪ 4,914 NIS

₪ 5,482 NIS

₪ 7,410 NIS

Arrival 4

Sept 22 - Oct 01

₪ 3,603 NIS

₪ 3,991 NIS

₪ 5,312 NIS

Non-Housing

Sept 24 - Oct 30

₪ 640 NIS

₪ 640 NIS

₪ 640 NIS

Can I arrive late or leave early than the above dates?

NO. Team members must be available for the full assigned period. Late arrivals or early departures are not allowed.

What travel documents are required?

Passport valid until at least 25 March 2027 and an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) for all nationalities for visa exempt countries. Apply online as soon as you book your flights. Check with your nearest Israeli Embassy/Consulate if your country is not visa-exempt.

My country is not visa exempt? Can you send me an invitation letter?

Yes, please email feast@icej.org to request

Which airline do you recommend?

El Al is recommended for its strong safety record and low cancellation rate. Enter flight details in the Feast Team Portal immediately after booking.

Is travel/medical insurance required?

Yes. Full medical insurance is mandatory. Your policy should cover death, catastrophic or minor medical expenses, dismemberment, emergency evacuation and repatriation, pre-existing conditions if applicable, and travel delays or trip interruptions due to conflict. Ensure it covers travel during times of unrest. This insurance may be purchased through a travel agency unless you have a pre-existing condition, in which case a specialist provider is required. It is essential, however, to ensure that the medical insurance you use covers you comprehensively worldwide. Full travel medical insurance must not be confused with simple travel Insurance, which covers only your flight, luggage, possessions, etc. 

How do I purchase travel insurance?

Insurance may be purchased through a travel agency, medical insurance providers. 

How can I purchase Israeli travel insurance?

We recommend reading the national insurance website regarding conditions of eligibility for recognition as hostile actions casualty.

While the ICEJ cannot endorse one insurance company over another, here is an option of medical insurance for tourists.


What safety measures should I follow?

Once at the Feast, follow Feast Office / Housing commands

How do I travel from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem?

Take the train from the airport to Jerusalem Yitzhak Navon Station, then a Gett taxi (Israeli version of Uber) to the hostel. Download the Gett App for convenience. Alternatively - take a bus to the hostel (download Moovit App / Google Maps)

What is the cheapest transportation from the Airport to the Hostel?

The most affordable way to reach the hostel is:

- Take the train from the airport to Jerusalem Central Station.

- From Central Station, take a city bus to the hostel (please check Google Maps for the correct bus number and route).


Google Maps provides clear and updated travel information.

What should I pack?

Modest clothing, walking shoes, sandals, hat, sunscreen, light jacket, national costume & flag for Jerusalem March, travel adapter, medications, secure money belt, laundry detergent. More details to follow

Accommodation

If I check in before breakfast time, will breakfast be provided for me on the day?

No. Breakfast is not included on the day of arrival. Only the following day.

Kindly plan your flight arrival time to Israel and your arrival time at the hostel accordingly.

If I arrive late, will dinner be provided?

If you are unable to complete check-in and arrive at the dining hall before 18:00 (when dinner service ends), we will unfortunately not be able to provide dinner.

Please carefully plan your flight arrival time and your expected arrival time at the hostel.

Is tipping required?

For bus drivers, it is common to give 15–25 NIS per day.

If the service is excellent, giving around 30 NIS is also appropriate.


At the youth hostel, tipping is generally not required. However, if you receive special assistance, giving 5–10 NIS is appropriate.


During the Feast, ICEJ may kindly ask for contributions toward tips several times. We would greatly appreciate your cooperation.

Where will I be staying?

Yitzhak Rabin Guest House, 1 Nahman Avigad Street, Givat Ram, Jerusalem. Dormitory-style rooms (3–4 persons) with free Wi-Fi. - insert hebrew text

What are the check-in and check-out arrangements?

Check-in is 15:00 on your arrival day. Check-out: 11:00 on 1 October. 

Can I stay additional nights?

Yes, book directly with the Yitzhak Rabin Guest House: Here!

Accommodation name and address?

Please see the shared Google Maps link.

The MOOVIT app is also a very useful app


We recommend using Google Maps for directions. It is very helpful and will show you:

  • The train route from the airport to Jerusalem Central Station
  • The bus number and route from Central Station to the hostel


Is water catered for?

You will receive one 1.5-liter bottle of water per night.

For example, if you stay 5 nights, you will receive five 1.5L bottles.


There is also a water dispenser at the entrance of the hostel. You may refill your empty bottles there free of charge at any time, 24 hours a day.

What meals are provided?

Breakfast daily at the hostel, one main meal per day, and a sandwich with a drink during evening sessions. Budget 200–400 ILS/week for additional meals.

At The Feast

What types of roles are available?

View our available roles and full descriptions in the feast team hub tab

Are morning devotions required?

They are strongly encouraged for spiritual preparation and team unity.

Will I need to serve on Shabbat or holidays?

Yes, depending on your role.

What is the expected standard of conduct?

Full availability for the entire period, respect for team leaders and fellow team members, and no personal missionary activities or distribution of materials.

How can I notify about dietary restrictions?

Make sure to specify in your application page / via the mobile app

Can I watch Feast programs later?

Yes, Daily Celebrations and seminars will be uploaded to the Feast platform for three months after the Feast. Log-in details provided closer to the event.

Who should I contact for questions?

Feast Office: feast@icej.org, Housing: housing@icej.org, Main ICEJ office: +972-2-539-9700.

General

When are the High Holidays this year?

11 September - Erev Rosh Hashanah

12 September - Rosh Hashanah I

13 September - Rosh Hashanah II

20 September - Erev Yom Kippur

21 September - Yom Kippur

03 October - Simchat Torah

When is payment due?

Full payment is due by 20 August 2026.

What is the refund policy?

All cancellations are subject to a 5% cancellation fee, deducted from the total amount paid.


Full Refund Exceptions

A 100% refund (no cancellation fee) will be issued only in the following limited circumstances:

 

  • Officially Declared War in Israel: A formal declaration of war by the Government of Israel that results in a nationwide legal prohibition on entry into Israel.
  • Official Denial of Entry: If a traveler is formally denied entry upon arrival by Israeli immigration authorities despite holding valid documentation, fully complying with all entry requirements, and making truthful declarations.


All claims require official written proof and are subject to review and final approval by the ICEJ Finance Department.


Refunds will be issued to the original payment method.


2026 Feast Disclaimer

Israeli government regulations may change at any time. ICEJ cannot control these regulations. If Team Member fees are paid but travel is prevented by government restrictions, refunds follow ICEJ policy only.

Post Feast

Will I get a certificate of service?

Yes, these will be sent out after the Feast

When can I apply for next year's Feast?


© International Christian Embassy Jerusalem 2026