The International Christian Embassy Jerusalem has named Dr. Susan Michael as the new chairwoman of its International Board of Trustees, positioning a veteran Evangelical Israel advocate to head one of the globe’s most prominent Christian organizations backing Israel.
According to the Jerusalem-headquartered group, Michael takes the helm from Rev. Ingolf Ellssel of Germany, who held the leadership role for a decade and a half. The organization’s president, Dr. Jürgen Bühler, noted that Michael brings extensive organizational experience, having participated in the ministry since it began 46 years ago.
“We are so pleased that Dr. Susan Michael was just chosen as the new Chairperson of our International Board of Trustees,” Bühler stated. “She has achieved so many accomplishments over her years as ICEJ USA National Director, rising in stature and influence as a key pro-Israel Christian leader in America and beyond.”
Bühler emphasized that Michael’s connection to the ministry reaches back to “our inception in 1980.”
Michael presently leads the Christian Embassy’s USA Branch as president. According to the organization, she has emerged as an influential Evangelical advocate for Israel while fighting antisemitism both domestically and globally.
The board appointment arrives as the American division of the organization strengthens its advocacy and outreach initiatives. During a video presentation at the International Leadership Conference in Prague the previous week, Michael explained that the U.S. branch has focused recent efforts on reorganizing and expanding its nationwide involvement.
She emphasized the creation of American Christian Leaders for Israel, known as ACLI, which brings together pastors, ministry heads, and pro-Israel groups throughout the country into what she termed a “network of networks.”
The National Religious Broadcasters designated ACLI as its main advocacy collaborator on Israel matters last year. Michael gained election to the NRB Board of Directors earlier this year.
Michael also coordinated the third Israel Advocacy Day in Washington the previous week in partnership with the Israel Allies Foundation and Eagles’ Wings ministry. The organization reported that the gathering drew over 500 rabbis, pastors, and Jewish and Christian community leaders to Washington to demonstrate support for Israel.
“At a time of rising antisemitism and growing challenges facing Israel, the role of building strong relationships between Christians and Jews has never been more important,” Michael said.
