Saturday, December 20, 2014

Nate Benjamin Interview

Today's program featured the music of Nate Benjamin!  You're in for a real treat.   Plus you'll get to hear an interview with him and hear how he came to faith!

Nate was raised by Jewish parents in a Messianic community centered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He grew up surrounded by musicians, songwriters and worship leaders, where he developed his love for worship music. His writing style draws inspiration from the sounds of Bethel Music, IHOP-KC and Hillsong, blended with Messianic Jewish music and themes.

His 2013 debut album, "Sacrifice of Worship," includes five original songs written by Nate. The EP was produced in Nashville, Tennessee and Camp Hill, Pennsylvania by Tim James of Emmaus Media and Design and features some of the top musicians in the CCM scene. This album includes a few duets, specifically two very special ones with Elisha Chernoff and the other with Joshua Aaron.  To learn more about Nate Benjamin, visit www.natebenjamin.com.

Saturday, December 6, 2014

Ron Finstuen & Jessica Gissen

It was a privilege to have Ron & Jessica back in the studio with me today.  Ron will shared how the Lord restored the relationship between Ron and his father, just in the nick of time.    God has perfect timing and allowed a trip to take place where there was healing, forgiveness and reconciliation, only days before the Lord took Ron's father home to be with Yeshua.  The Holy Spirit led Ron to give his father all that he needed to come to the Father through the Son. The Lord kept his father alive until he could deliver the message of Salvation to him. Ron said "I believe that God kept him alive until my father saw me, the real me, the man of God I have become. He passed away three days later with his head resting in his folded arms."

Ronald Finstuen, a.k.a. Coach Ron, has a background that spans 30 years of training and competition worldwide and includes sports, fitness and health.  He made military history by becoming certified and working as a personal trainer, and he was employed at a hospital for nine years. Over the course of the last year, he has been traveling the nation teaching his wellness class "Helping To Heal." He has taught thousands of people in various walks of life including children, athletes, elderly, injured, hospital staff members and many more. His hope is that every wellness class he teaches helps to heal an individual, a community and a nation.

Ronald also taught Israeli Krav Maga during this tour. Krav Maga means contact combat in Hebrew and is the Israel Defense Force combat training. In his 30 years of training in defense systems Krav Maga is his preference. He became a certified instructor in Krav Maga because he believes it is the most efficient and effective training for personal and home protection. Ronald views Krav Maga as a way to fight against antisemitism and as a way to protect people from violence.

Today's' show has lots of great music and a live song sung beautifully by Jessica Gissen.

Saturday, November 29, 2014

Michelle Gold Interview-2

This is a great show, featuring some fabulous music by Michelle Gold.  Michelle is a singer/songwriter who is a Jewish believer in Yeshua (Jesus in Hebrew). At age 15, Michelle was introduced to Yeshua as the Messiah. Though her family rejected her newfound faith, she was compelled to follow Him writing her own brand powerful, dynamic, spiritually-centered music.

Since that time, she has opened up for such legendary singers as Gladys Knight and Integrity Records Recording Artist and Worship Leader Paul Wilbur. She has also sung with Messianic recording artists, Marty Goetz & Ted Pearce. In her graduating year at High School, Michelle won the coveted Lena Horne Scholarship.

She has also been a featured artist at the United Nations (ministering to the surviving families of firefighters who lost their lives in the World Trade Center Tragedy & to former NY Mayor, Rudi Giulianii), St Patrick's Cathedral, the McDonald's GospelFest (held at Town Hall) NYC, & the annual GMA Spotlight Regional Competition 2001 (First Runner Up),.

In November 2000, the Danish Israeli Mission sponsored Michelle to tour the country of Denmark, ministering in song at schools and churches in every major city which culminated in a TV Interview and which is still being aired in Copenhagen today. Michelle has also been interviewed on the nationally televised CBN TV Program, the 700 Club!

More recently, Michelle had the privilege of touring the U.S., England, Germany, Switzerland, France & Israel for twenty months with the Jewish Gospel Music group, The Liberated Wailing Wall.

Michelle's complete testimony will be on Sid Roth's TV show the week of Dec. 1:  http://sidroth.org/television/find-station

Sunday, November 16, 2014

Rabbi Eric Tokajer

On today's show Rabbi Eric discussed his new book, "Transient Singularity," which is about Senator James Madison. Senator Madison forms a secret government agency whose role and unique ability is to manipulate individual moments in time. Every event in life, no matter how wonderful or tragic, is completely dependent upon many smaller events. Such an adjustment of a single, seemingly insignificant event can change the entire course of history.

Rabbi Eric is the founder of The Messianic Daily News website, which was introduced in 2006. The Messianic Daily News merged with the Messianic Times in July of 2012, and in January 2013, he took over as the executive director of the Messianic Times.

Tokajer is also the rabbi of Brit Ahm Messianic Synagogue in Pensacola, Florida and a member of the International Alliance of Messianic Congregations and Synagogues. His first venture into published authorship was "Oy! How Did I Get Here?" a book on the many challenges he's experienced in ministry over the years.

For more information on Rabbi Eric Tokajer, please visit www.rabbierict.com.

And of course, fantastic music by Michelle Gold,  Sue Samuel and Joshua Aaron!

Sunday, November 9, 2014

Ethel Chadwick Testimony

What's a nice Jewish girl like me doing in a place like this?   How did I get here?   I had so much fun putting this program together.   You'll hear a little music, I'll talk a little, then more music, more talk, etc.   You get the picture.   By the hour's end you will have heard great music from artists like Lamb, Jonathan Settel, Ted Pearce, Avner & Rachel Boskey, Rachel Washington, Liberated Wailing Wall, Marty Goetz and Joel Chernoff, and you will have heard how a nice Jewish girl from Richmond, Virginia found her Messiah!

Plus some beautiful instrumental tracks by Tamrah Alexander and Corry Bell/Lev Shelo!

For more info or to contact me, please write me at bagelsandblessings@gmail.com.   Enjoy!


Saturday, November 1, 2014

Alyse Nicole Merritt Interview

Today's program features the music of Jonathan Settel, Craig Taubman, Ted Pearce, Joshua Aaron, Corry Bell with Lev Shelo, and the Schleps.

I had a very exciting interview with Alyse Merritt.  Alyse Nicole Merritt is a dynamic faith-based movie producer, writer, director and actress, who maintains a passion to reach the lost with the saving message of her Messiah, Yeshua, through film. She was born and raised in a strict Jewish home in north New Jersey, Bat Mitzvah'd at 13 and attended Hebrew schools her entire life. At the age of 20, however, Alyse had a supernatural, life-transforming experience when someone shared the message of God's love, through Yeshua, with her.

As a team, Alyse Nicole, her husband, John, and their four beautiful children endeavor to reach both Jew and non-Jew with the message of their Messiah. Recently their three feature-length movies ("For Such a Time," "Samson" and a powerful, HD pro-life film called "Dying to be Heard") were released at all LifeWay and Family Christian Bookstores across America.

Tender Shoot Films, formerly known as Merritt Productions, was founded by John and Alyse Merritt. The Merritts are a talented, dynamic Messianic couple that have been writing and producing Biblically-based films since 2004.
For more information on this and other films from Tender Shoot Films, please visit www.tendershootfilms.com.

Sunday, October 26, 2014

Jonathan Settel Interview

Wow, today's program features the music of Jonathan Settel!   You'll also enjoy a lively interview!

Jonathan is a man after the heart of God and ministers extensively worldwide bringing believers back to their Jewish roots through Messianic expressions of worship and teaching.

The desire of Settel Ministries is to see all of Israel (the Jewish people) come to know Messiah as the Body of Believers provokes them to jealousy. Many have responded to the call for salvation, and letters are received daily reflecting the impact Jonathan's music has had on people's lives. His music and ministry materials have gone into places where Jonathan has yet to go.

Jonathan has written and distributed a book entitled "Delight in the Shabbat," which has brought delight to many as they celebrate Yeshua as our Sabbath rest. He has also narrated "The Jewish New Testament," a translation by Dr. David Stern, bringing the completeness of the Gospel to all Bible Believers. This project is available on 16 tapes from Lederer Publications. Each tape is 90-minutes long.

Jonathan's new album, "When I Worship You," contains beautiful new praise and worship music with recordings made in the Holy Land.

Settel International Ministries has released Messianic praise and worship music on CD and DVD. Current releases are continually in production as the Lord lays it on Jonathan's heart to do so. For more information about Jonathan Settel's ministry go to www.settel.org.

Sunday, October 19, 2014

Bruce Cohen Interview

A former member of the singing group "Kol Simcha," Bruce has written many wonderful Messianic songs which are featured in this broadcast.

Rabbi Bruce Cohen, founding rabbi of Congregation Beth El of Manhattan – the longest enduring Manhattan Messianic Jewish congregation in New York City's history – has been a widely sought and highly respected teacher and conference speaker on Messianic Jewish and Scripture-related topics all over the world since 1978. His uncompromised faith in the God of Israel and Yeshua of Nazareth as Messiah, balanced by a thorough and erudite Jewish theology and worldview, has earned the notice and respect of several mainstream Jewish rabbis in New York City – and even invitations to study about Messiah privately, debate the subject publicly, and for his congregation to serve in mainstream Manhattan Jewish institutional events. Rabbi Bruce was a quintessential Princeton "preppy," graduating high school from The Hun School of Princeton as an academic honors student, student government leader, magazine editor, and sports varsity "three letter man" with a state championship as a lacrosse midfielder. He went on to earn a cum laude double bachelor's degree in comparative literature and theater direction from Union College, with additional work in language at Columbia University, several rabbinic ordinations [see video], and certification from the State of Pennsylvania in both secondary and elementary education. He was also an appointee to the Eugene O'Neill Theatre Center's prestigious National Theatre Institute. Rabbi Cohen authored and edited dictionary definitions for Houghton Mifflin's American Heritage Dictionary (one of the most-used in the world), and served for nearly a decade as a teacher and then principal of a private Messianic Jewish day school. He has also served as a co-director and teacher of adult religious class programs, and a teacher of rabbis in yeshiva/seminary. He was the keynote speaker at South Africa's National Millennium Messianic Jewish Conference in the year 2000; and remains actively involved with Messianic Jewish groups in Israel, South Africa, and many other locations all across the globe. He was a yeshiva teacher for Maranatha and Hear O Israel Ministries in the former Soviet Union, and was Stage Director and Designer for Hear O Israel's first Messianic Music Festivals in Moscow, St. Petersburg (Leningrad), and Minsk. He also wrote and co-directed the ground-breaking popular "Dance for Joy" worship dance instructional video.

Sunday, October 12, 2014

Sukkot 2014

Why do Messianic Jews celebrate Sukkot?   What is the significance of water on Sukkot?  The answers to these questions and more - -plus fantastic music from Barry & Batya Segal, Nancy Santiago, Ted Pearce, Jonathan Settel, Marty Goetz, Rivka Whitten, and Steve McConnell.

Enjoy!

Saturday, October 4, 2014

Yom Kippur 2014

This program was originally aired in 2007 and is one of my favorite broadcasts.   Why do Messianic Jews observe Yom Kippur?  I address this and other common questions in today's show.   You'll enjoy the music of Jonathan Settel, Joel Chernoff, Paul Wilbur, Corry Bell & Lev Shelo, Sue Samuel, Marty Goetz and Joshua Aaron.

Remember, Yeshua makes us Kosher!   Thanks be to God for sending his son to atone for our sins! 

Saturday, September 27, 2014

Ira Goldberg Interview

How exciting to have Ira back on Bagels and Blessings!   Here is a little bit about Ira: 

He is the son of Jewish parents Sam and Sylvia Goldberg, was born in the Bronx in 1952 and raised in New Jersey. He became a believer on Jan. 27, 1997. Ira became a Messianic broadcaster "thanks to Ethel Chadwick," first as a guest then he sat in for Ethel. He moved to South Carolina in 2007, where he previously attended Adon Olam Messianic Congregation and co-hosted a radio show called "Down Home Shalom" with AJ Sizemore.

Ira currently attends Beit Shiloh in Asheville and Spartanburg. He is now the co-host of the podcast "Jew and Gentile One in Messiah" with pastor Alton Stone of the Donaldson Church of God, Greenville, South Carolina.

We had a lot of fun in today's broadcast, plus you will enjoy music from Jonathan Settel, Lamb, Corry Bell & Lev Shelo, Greg Silverman, Steve McConnell and the Schleps!

Sunday, August 31, 2014

Troy Mitchell Interview

Today's program features the music of Troy Mitchell.

Troy brings a fresh and authentic voice to Messianic Judaism. His original songs draw from the Gospels, the Hebrew of the Tanach, the Midrash, synagogue prayers, and first-century liturgy. They even utilize the Greek of the Apostolic Scriptures to bring a fusion of Chassidic joy, gospel hope, jazz, acoustic soul food and soulish prayer focused on the light of Messiah. Troy's  ability to almost become one with the music comes from leading and/or playing with worship bands since the early '90s. He has been challenged by blindness most of his life and has used music as a way to connect with Hashem and other people. His love for the Psalms, liturgy, the words of Yeshua and his involvement in the synagogue has given the movement unique melodies. Even more than that, it has instilled in him a passion for seeing everyone have a chance to draw closer to HaShem through music and prayer.

Before Troy became Messianic, he was a music minister at an Assembly of God church.  He currently does the music for the contemporary service at a Messianic synagogue called Beth Immanuel in Hudson Wisconsin. Troy has two albums out currently. The first album is called "Yoke of the King" and the newest one is called "Light of the World."

Sunday, August 24, 2014

Rabbi Ira Brawer Interview

Shalom!   Today's show is one hour of total fabulousness!   New music from Joshua Aaron and Nate Benjamin, plus some super songs from Ted Pearce, Sue Samuel & Sharon Wilbur!   Of course each week begins with Shabbat Shalom from Jonathan Settel!

Today I interviewed Messianic Rabbi Ira Brawer of Ayts Chaim Congregation in Boca Raton, FL. 
Rabbi Ira and his wife, Gloria, are the founders of "Heritage House," a healing and restoration ministry. Rabbi Ira is an ordained Messianic Rabbi under the Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations and has served as senior rabbi of Ayts Chayim Messianic Synagogue in Boca Raton, Florida for 20 years. As of September 20th, he will stepping down and turning over leadership of the synagogue to Rabbi Jesse allowing the Brawers to focus their efforts and energy full-time on the work of Heritage House.
As the founders and leaders of Heritage House Ministries, their heart is to help God's people and especially youth and young adults to walk in the fullness of their calling in the Kingdom.

Sunday, August 17, 2014

David Silver Interview

Today's program features an interview with David Silver.  David is originally from Auckland, New Zealand and immigrated to Israel in 1992. The initial vision for Out of Zion remains the same – that is to bring the Jewish people to their God and Messiah. By enlisting the Church's assistance, the task will be much more attainable. David is now sensing a strong call to divide his time between direct involvement in Jewish evangelism and bringing the Hebraic roots of the faith to the Church. He believes that this understanding must be returned to the Church as a preparation for the return of the Lord, who is coming back for His Bride.  For more info please visit http://www.out-of-zion.com/.

You'll also enjoy the music of Jonathan Settel, Barry & Batya Segal, Corry Bell/Lev Shelo, Zemer Levav and Beckah Shae!

Sunday, August 10, 2014

Barry Segal Interview

Today's program featured the wonderful music of Barry and Batya Segal, and an interview with Barry. 
Batya first became internationally recognized for the rich worship music that she and her husband, Barry Segal, pioneered together. Batya was born in Jerusalem to an Orthodox Jewish Yemenite family. She has infused the rich sounds of her heritage into her music, along with the faith kindled in her after a profound experience and encounter with the Messiah Yeshua. Batya as a songwriter and Barry as a musician soon became well known through their Messianic music and teaching ministry. Barry and Batya now have a number of albums including "Sh'ma Yisrael," "Go Through the Gates," "Adonai" and "Timeless Sounds."
Barry and Batya Segal are the founding directors of a humanitarian aid center in Jerusalem. Their longing to help build and restore Israel inspired them to pioneer the nonprofit charity organization, Vision for Israel and The Joseph Storehouse, in 1994. The work currently functions as an international humanitarian aid center operating in the Judean Hills just outside of Jerusalem.

For more information on Barry and Batya Segal and their many works, visit www.greetingsfromjerusalem.com

Sunday, July 6, 2014

Donita & Joshua Manning - Waiting for the Right One

How do you know when it's the right one?   Donita and Joshua waited a long time for their prayers to be answered.   This sweet newly-wed couple shared some encouragement on today's show.

Donita's story:

After 20 years traveling the globe pursuing a higher education, mastering the craft of the written word, and bringing the Good News of Messiah to the Jewish community, Donita settled in Jacksonville, Florida three years ago for a final adventure — hoping she might find that special someone who could keep up with her. A year later, she met Joshua, who invited her to study prophecy. They jumped into ballroom dancing lessons with both feet. He fixed her computer, her car and supper. She soon found herself struggling to keep up with him — legs screaming and lungs burning — while he lightly jogged ahead of her yelling, "C'mon! Just another half mile!" Regardless, Donita decided she had found the man with whom to take the land of Jacksonville and beyond.

Joshua's story:

Joshua grew up in a Christian home and chose to rebel against God when he was 11 years old. His rebellion turned into a 23-year drug addiction that would create a child out of wedlock, a failed marriage and many lost relationships. The week after he got divorced, a friend of his called him to say hello. He told him how he found Jesus and that he should come back to Jacksonville and get his life back together. In 2007, Joshua gave his addiction to God. It took two years for everything to fall into place, and over time, he has felt closer and closer to Him. In 2012, he proclaimed to God that he would walk the earth alone if that is what He wanted. Three months later he was ballroom dancing with his best friend and now wife. Joshua says, "I never did anything to deserve one ounce of forgiveness and ended up getting my heart's desire."

You'll enjoy some great music too (Marty Goetz, Misha Goetz, Sue Samuel, and Ted Pearce).

Sunday, June 22, 2014

Ben Campbell Interview

Being born in a bakery doesn't make you a bagel any more than being raised in a believing home makes you a believer!   I've heard that expression many times.   Ben Campbell was raised in a Messianic home but in college he made his own decision to follow Yeshua.   Lately the Lord has shown Ben some amazing things, using imagery and stories to demonstrate what it means to put the Lord first in your life.

In this broadcast you'll hear fabulous songs from Sue Samuel, Jonathan Settel, Barry & Batya Segal, and Elana Watson, and you'll gain a deeper understanding of what it means to follow the Lord with all your heart.

Enjoy!

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Justin Kron Interview

It was wonderful chatting with Justin Kron.   He is a second generation believer and I was intrigued by his story.  Justin became a follower of Yeshua at a young age and grew up with one foot in the Jewish world and one foot in the Christian world. He has subsequently developed a passion for acquainting Christians with the Jewish roots and heritage of the Christian faith, and to become better equipped and engaged in living an authentic faith among their Jewish friends and neighbors.

Since 1998, Justin has served as a National Ministries Representative with Chosen People Ministries and is the founder and director of experience Israel, a short-term ministry and spiritual pilgrimage program for young adults. He is also the founder and coordinator of the Kesher Forum in Chicago, an interdenominational learning community for those who are interested in learning more about Jewish culture and building bridges with their Jewish friends and neighbors.

Justin has served with the Danny Byram Ministries, a concert ministry to the U.S. military, and as an Area Manager with Promise Keepers in Chicago, where he represented the organization as the national liaison to the Messianic Jewish community. Justin studied at the Moody Theological Seminary and is a frequent contributor to various blogs and radio programs on topics related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, historical anti-Semitism and the Jewishness of Jesus. He is a member of Willow Creek Community Church where Justin serves on the Leadership Advisory Council, and his wife, Judy, directs Women of Willow at their North Shore congregation in Northfield, Illinois.

You'll also enjoy wonderful music from Jonathan Settel, Greg Silverman, Sue Samuel, Paul Wilbur, Kathy Shooster and The Schleps!

Sunday, June 1, 2014

Jason Sobel Interview

Everything you could ask for --- a GREAT interview with Rabbi Jason Sobel and fantastic music!

Jason Sobel was raised in a Jewish home in Northern New Jersey. He grew up appreciating his Jewish heritage and was curious to learn about spiritual matters. After years of seeking, studying and several supernatural experiences, Jason became a follower of Yeshua (Jesus). The Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations (UMJC) granted Jason his Rabbinic ordination in 2005, and he now serves in many capacities on both a national and local level in greater Los Angeles.

Rabbi Jason is the director of Fusion, an outreach and teaching ministry. Fusion is committed to the spiritual growth of Jewish and Gentile believers, teaching the Jewish roots of the faith and advancing the Kingdom through unity in Yeshua. Fusion also seeks to minister to young adults in the Los Angeles area. Fusion is touching the lives of a number of individuals, many whom are involved with the entertainment industry.

In addition, Rabbi Jason is the leader of Ruach LA, a next generation Messianic community. Ruach LA is a family friendly, creative, Spirit led and Yeshua centered fellowship. Ruach is a place where Jewish people can find meaningful, authentic relationships, experience the joys of living a Jewish life, and encounter the power and healing presence of God. In the spring of 2000, Jason began to plant and lead Shaʼarei Shalom Messianic Jewish Synagogue in Cary, North Carolina. He has served the UMJC as the Associate Director for under-40 initiatives and also worked with Chosen People Ministries as assistant to the President.
Rabbi Jason has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Jewish Studies and a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies. He is passionate about developing spiritual leaders, teaching the Hebrew Bible and New Covenant from a Jewish perspective, and praying for the sick and hurting, all while fostering unity between Jews and Gentiles. Rabbi Jason has been married for ten years and has two adorable children. He currently resides in Southern California.

To learn more about Rabbi Jason Sobel, visit http://www.fusionglobal.org/#!team/ccqg.

Sunday, May 25, 2014

Jonathan Bernis Interview (from 1998)

I was digging in the "archives" and found this fun interview with Jonathan Bernis!   This was when he was with "Hear O Israel Ministries," long before becoming the head of Jewish Voice Ministries.

Jewish Believer in Yeshua (Jesus), Jonathan Bernis is President & CEO of Jewish Voice Ministries International (JVMI). Jonathan has worked on the forefront of world evangelism since 1984, taking the Good News of Israel’s Messiah to the far reaches of the earth, to the Jewish People, and also to the Nations.

Today, as President & CEO of Jewish Voice Ministries International (JVMI), and our associated organizations in Canada and the United Kingdom, Jonathan directs all aspects of the ministry, including the weekly television program Jewish Voice with Jonathan Bernis, which airs throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia.

JVMI’s mission is two-fold: Proclaiming the Gospel to the Jew first, and also to the Nations (Romans 1:16), and equipping the Church—providing education about the Hebraic roots of Christianity, the Church’s responsibility to Israel and the Jewish People, and how to share Messiah with the Jewish People. The Good News is proclaimed through television, print media, humanitarian/medical outreaches, and large-scale international festivals.

More than 560,000 people have attended our vibrant Hear O’ Israel! Festivals of Jewish Music & Dance throughout Eastern Europe, India, and South America. Millions more have participated via television broadcasts. Thousands have responded to altar calls, and about one third of those who have responded have been Jewish. More than a dozen new Messianic Jewish congregations have been birthed in the former Soviet Union through these outreaches. JVMI also partners with several other Messianic ministries to establish and operate Messianic Jewish Bible Institutes around the world to train leaders for Jewish ministry.

The lost and scattered tribes of Israel are of particular interest to Jonathan and Jewish Voice. A prophetic sign of redemption, as God is revealing these enigmatic peoples from Ethiopia to Eastern India, Jewish Voice has mobilized to reach out with essential humanitarian and medical provision, as God’s arm extended in the love of their Messiah. This is a very exciting and rewarding area of ministry, particularly close to Jonathan’s heart as these are the poorest Jewish communities on the earth.

A sought-after speaker, Jonathan also teaches at seminars and in conferences worldwide. He is a prominent leader in the Messianic movement and is a passionate supporter of Israel. He is the author of A Rabbi Looks at Jesus of Nazareth.

Jonathan is the founding Rabbi of Congregation Shema Yisrael in Rochester, New York, where he served as Senior Messianic Rabbi from 1984 to 1993. He also founded and pastored the Messianic Center of St. Petersburg, Russia, where he lived and ministered from 1993 to 1997.
Jonathan and his wife, Elisangela, are the parents of two daughters, Liel and Hannah, and reside in Phoenix, Arizona.

Saturday, May 17, 2014

Corry Bell Interview (first aired 2012)

What a joy to re-air this wonderful chat with Corry Bell.  Corry  is the lead singer of Messianic band Lev Shelo.

When Corry Bell was a little girl, her parents would have her sing for relatives and friends, which lead to her involvement in school musicals and choir events. After high school, she met Yeshua and quickly began a lifetime of ministry in the arts, using her experience in music as a backdrop. In 1987, she hosted a cable TV music video program in Southern California called "Rock Of Ages" where she conducted artist interviews and introduced videos for the show. She has made numerous appearances on stage and in local television programs and even worked for a Christian radio station for the season.

To her great surprise, Corry found out she had an extensive Jewish family history, not known to her before 2002. After 22 years in the church, it became apparent she had to find a way to reconcile her belief in Yeshua with her Jewishness. In the spring of 2003, she began to attend Beth Emunah Messianic Synagogue, connected with her Jewish identity, joined the worship team there and accepted the position of Music Director in the fall of 2004.

In 2005, the Lord gave Corry a vision, a recurring "thought" if you will, for this band, this ministry. After 20 years of laying down her own ambitions in music to serve the Lord, He was now reviving that which she had thought was dead. Now, she had to move forward in that calling. After making some decisions about the direction to take, she approached Mark Keller about forming a band and doing a CD.  Lev Shelo was "born."

Corry's first experiences with the band she helped create included leading worship at the MJAA Southwest Regional conference and for the next 4 years, she and Mark and others lead praise and worship there, and also at Messiah Conference in Pennsylvania in 2007 and 2008, opening for such artists as Paul Wilbur, Marty Goetz, Ted Pearce and Joel Chernoff. The band's debut CD, "Or HaOlam," released in August of 2010, is the result of these experiences and the many requests from congregations all over the world to make their music available.

Saturday, May 10, 2014

Natasha Kraus-Reynolds & Tamrah Alexander Interview

Today I was surprised to have not one but two wonderful musicians on the phone with me!   I had the pleasure of speaking with Natasha Kraus-Reynolds and Tamrah Alexander.   Here is some background on Natasha:

Natasha was born and raised in the small Latin American country of Panama, to upper middle class parents of Jewish ancestry. Faith and music were always a big focus in her home. As a young adult, Natasha rediscovered her faith as a Messianic Jewish believer in Yeshua.
As her faith journey continued, she began to trust God as she was able to better understand how the Creator of the Universe loves us so greatly that he keeps all of His words and all of His promises from old. It was amazing for her to see that He knew from the beginning how His plan of redemption to the world would be carried out by means of our Jewish Messiah, as it is written in the Tanakh, the book of the prophet Isaiah, Chapter 59 verse 20 and expounded in Romans 11.
Her background has influenced the sound and languages of the songs you will hear, mixing together alternative rock, classical, Middle Eastern, Sephardic and Latin music and the English, Spanish and Hebrew languages. Through this music, she hopes that lives would be moved, people would turn to the one true God, the God of Israel, and that many would be changed by the liberating power of the Most High to live as "B'nei HaOr" or "children of the light," as written in Ephesians 5:8-10."
Even though having a degree in industrial engineering set the tone for her professional career path, music for Adonai has always been a subject of great importance in her life. For more information, visit www.NatashaKraus-Reynolds.com.

Today's show features songs written by Natasha and produced by Tamrah Alexander.   Enjoy!

Sunday, May 4, 2014

Diane Beaudoin Interview

Today my best friend was in the studio with me!   Diane Beaudoin grew up in Syracuse, NY and has lived in the Rochester, NY area for many years.   So what would you do if you or a loved one was diagnosed with Cancer?   Diane is a cancer survivor and she shares her experience on today's program.   When her baby granddaughter was also diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia, it was a challenge for the entire family.   But they held onto their faith and watched the healing.

You'll be encouraged by this story of faith and healing, as well as enjoy some wonderful music.

It was great having Diane back in the studio -- we are truly Jew and Gentile - one in Messiah!

Sunday, April 27, 2014

Melissa Moskowitz Interview

Melissa Moskowitz is a dear friend and a strong believer in Yeshua.   I was honored to speak with her a few days ago.  Here is some info about her:

Melissa Moskowitz has been a part of Jews for Jesus since 1975. She was born and raised in the Bronx and came to believe in Yeshua while in college. She moved to Brooklyn with her husband Jhan (the late North American Director of Jews for Jesus) when the branch opened in January 2007. Throughout her 36 years of service with the ministry she's had the opportunity to use her giftings in youth and young adult work, publications, photography and for the past 13 years in young adult ministry. Now from their 108-year old Victorian home in the Flatbush area of Brooklyn, Melissa holds Shabbat fellowships for young adult students and professionals, as well as other events which include food, fellowship and the Word.

You'll enjoy some great music too -- Joel Chernoff, Sue Samuel, Lamb, Jonathan Settel, Corry Bell & Lev Shelo and Ted Pearce!

Sunday, April 20, 2014

Sharon Wilbur Interview (Repeat)

Back by popular demand!   I had such a great time interviewing Sharon Wilbur, just had to share it once again!    Some great tunes and a fun interview!

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Sharon grew up with an interesting mix of the music industry and farm life. Her dad, a traveling musician, brought her out on stage with him since she was eight. Her mother, a horse trainer, surrounded her with horses and  farm animals since before she could talk.

After getting married in 2006 and relocating to Jacksonville, she began to pursue music full time — traveling to singing gigs on the weekends and working for her musician father-in-law at Wilbur Ministries. After her trip to Hollywood on Season 8 of American Idol, her eyes were opened to the fun and excitement of TV, and it was love at first sight!

Sharon Wilbur is a talented, vibrant and passionate 20-something ready to explode onto the music scene. The question isn't whether it's good, upbeat, soulful or even catchy, because her music is definitely all those things. The question is how to categorize it.

Elements of soul, rock, R&B and pop are woven into Messianic and clearly Jewish lyrics. That is where the passion comes in, as she says herself: "I truly believe that my entire life from birth until now has been preparing me for 'such a time as this.' (Esther 4:14) I want to go where God leads me, write what He speaks to me and sing what He teaches me — that I may be used to bring hope to weary nations, and joy to those who have only known sorrow."

Vocally she can hold her own with the likes of Natasha Bedingfield or Jessica Simpson, but it's her heart that truly separates her. The five songs on her debut demo, "You're My Heart," show with her spirit, vocal talents, writing ability and an upbeat tempo that shows Sharon's passion for Israel and God's sovereignty in our lives is paramount to joy and peace.

Sunday, April 13, 2014

Rabbi Jim Appel Interview

It was a fabulous day in the studio as I once more welcomed Rabbi Jim Appel to the program.  Rabbi Jim has been the spiritual leader of Congregation Shema Yisrael since 1996 and a Jewish follower of Yeshua since 1977. He is ordained by the International Alliance of Messianic Congregations and Synagogues.
Rabbi Jim previously worked for Xerox Corporation in Webster, N.Y., for 24 years as an optical engineer and engineering manager. He holds more than 45 patents in the areas of copier imaging systems and laser printing. Rabbi Jim received a bachelor's degree in optical engineering from the University of Rochester in 1967 and a master's degree in physics from the University of Southern California in 1970.
Rabbi Jim decided to follow Yeshua after a long spiritual search. He grew up with parents who taught him that God did not exist and organized religion deceived and oppressed people. In 1967 after completing college, Jim became disillusioned with life as an atheist. He rejected his parent's teachings and began his search for spiritual reality. This search took him into the world of mind-altering drugs and yoga meditation, and ended with a dramatic encounter with Yeshua the Messiah, who revealed himself to Rabbi Jim in the privacy of his bedroom without the assistance of any other person.

Today Rabbi Jim discussed the "blood moons" - what is their spiritual significance and what has happened in the past during these eclipses.   Plus you'll enjoy some great Passover music from Nancy Santiago, Sue Samuel, Michelle Gold, Rachel Boskey, House of Peace, the Schleps and Jonathan Settel.

Sunday, April 6, 2014

Robin Citron Interview

Two nice Jewish girls get together and anything can happen!   Robin grew up in a Jewish home in Brooklyn, NY and in this interview she shares her journey of faith.     Robin is a dear friend and I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with her and learning more about her life.

You'll also enjoy some wonderful music from Sue Samuel, Ted Pearce, Zemer Levav, Barry & Batya Segal, Jonathan Settel and Joshua Aaron.


Sunday, March 30, 2014

Hannah Campbell Interview

What a fun time in the studio today!   This program features the music of Jonathan Settel, Barry & Batya Segal, Avner & Rachel Boskey, Zemer Levav, Ted Pearce and The Schleps!   And it was a delight to have Hannah Grace Campbell in the studio.  Hannah grew up in Rochester, NY in a fun and loving Messianic Jewish home.  From in early age, she was taught about the God of Israel, and came to accept the Messiah as her Savior at the ripe old age of four.  After realizing at the age of nine that she could not grow up to become Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, (as blood is WAY too disgusting), she dreamed of a number of different careers (everything from a ballet dancer to a tornado chasing meteorologist), before she finally settled on becoming a composer of music.  Hannah greatly enjoyed earning her Bachelors in Music Composition at Baldwin-Wallace College (now Baldwin Wallace University), studying Music, growing closer to God, and learning how to save money by getting half-priced appetizers at local restaurants after College Campus Ministry meetings.  Hannah went on pursue her Masters in Music Composition for the Screen (try saying that ten times fast) at Columbia College Chicago.  After receiving her degree, Hannah, like many other former college students, was very burnt out and decided that she couldn't stand music or anything for creative for that matter and that she would pursue... something else.  And everyone who knew her said, ha, yeah right.  Naturally, of course, that didn't work.  Hannah now leads worship and cantors at Congregation Shema Yisrael, works at an agency for individuals with developmental disabilities, is working on a novel (she vows that it will one day be finished), and writes music with a fiery, burning passion, in hopes of being able to soon record her first album.

Sunday, March 23, 2014

Rivka Whitten Interview

Today I welcomed Rivka Whitten back to Bagels and Blessings.   Rivka was born in Israel, moved to the U.S. when she was 3 years old, and after many years returned to the land of her forefathers.   She has a powerful voice and a willing heart to serve her Messiah!  Today's show features her CD "For Such a Time as This," and a couple of songs from her new CD, "My Soul Thirsts for You."

To find out more about her music and ministry please visit her website, http://www.rivkawhitten.com/.


Saturday, March 8, 2014

Tribute to Deborah Galiley

Deborah Galiley went home to be with Yeshua on Wed., February 19, 2014.   I had the privilege to interview her in June, 2007.

I hope you enjoy this bittersweet tribute to a wonderful woman of God.   Here's some background: 
She was born December 14, 1961 in Queens, NY. Deborah moved with her husband to upstate NY in 1989 from Pasadena, CA and lived in Syracuse, Rome and Utica before settling in New Hartford.

Deborah was a wife, mother, the Rebbetzin of Beit Shalom in Utica, NY who was well known for her diverse interests and skills. With an inquisitive mind, quick wit and known for her straightforward honesty, she was an ardent student of life always ready to learn new things. She was a published author of four biblical fiction novels, worship dancer, artisan bread baker, youth group leader, clarinetist, intercessor, percussionist and friend to many.

Deborah was the daughter of Harry Teitelbaum (of blessed memory) and is survived by her mother, Marilyn (Nober) Teitelbaum of Laguna Niguel, her husband,Rabbi Stephen Galiley her children, Joshua Galiley of Irvine, CA, Shimon Galiley of Dongbaek, South Korea, Yael, Noa and Elisheva Galiley of New Hartford NY, and her brothers Mark (Pam) Teitelbaum of Westlake Village, CA and David (Lynda) Teitelbaum of Saratoga Springs, NY.


RIP Deborah.

Sunday, March 2, 2014

Ray Bentley Interview

Wow!   What an exciting interview with Pastor/Author Ray Bentley!   He discusses his new book, "The Holy Land Key," and I play fabulous music by Corry Bell & Lev Shelo, Paul Wilbur, Rachel & Avner Boskey, Barry & Batya Segal, Marty Goetz, Jonathan Settel and more!   Here's some info about Ray:

As a graduate of Calvary Chapel Bible College, Twin Peaks, Calif., Ray served at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa at the House of Psalms before beginning his pastoral work. In the fall of 1977, Ray Bentley founded Calvary Chapel of El Cajon and served there as the senior pastor for four years. In 1981, he left Calvary Chapel of El Cajon to assume the position of assistant pastor and teacher at Horizon Christian Fellowship with Mike MacIntosh in San Diego, Calif. In August of 1984, Ray left Horizon Christian Fellowship to begin Maranatha Chapel where he serves today as the senior pastor. In fall of 1997, Maranatha Chapel moved into a new 15-acre church facility in Rancho Bernardo that serves approximately 7,000 people weekly.

In recent years, Pastor Ray has taken opportunities to preach at a Billy Graham sponsored crusade in India, as well as other outreaches in England, Scotland, Australia, Ireland, Africa, China and the Philippines.
 He has been a featured speaker at Epicenter Conferences with Joel Rosenberg and numerous other national and international pastors conferences and ministry events. As a close friend of the late mayor of Ariel, Ron Nachman, Ray has also become deeply involved in Israel and launched the Nehemiah Project, a ministry of Maranatha Chapel that supports the efforts of numerous outreaches and organizations in Israel including the Joshua Fund, the Nazareth Baptist Church, Hope for Ishmael, the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Friends of Ariel.

In 1992, Ray established Maranatha Christian Schools to equip children, K-12 grade, with the spiritual, social and scholastic skills to foster a better equipped future community of believers. In winter of 2004, Ray dedicated a 100-acre property, which houses a campus for up to 2,000 future students.
Ray Bentley is host to the daily Maranatha Radio show heard on stations across the United States and around the world. He has authored five books and numerous booklets and other resources.
His newest book, "The Holy Land Key: Unlocking End-Times Prophecy Through the Lives of God's People in Israel," was released from Waterbrook (a division of Random House) Feb. 18, 2014. It is a study of prophecy inspires elaborate timelines and speculation about which world leader might rise to power in the last days. It's far too easy to miss the significant prophetic signs contained in stories of biblical characters, in God's creation, and in the lives and actions of today's Israelis and Palestinians.

Saturday, February 22, 2014

Kerah Oliverira Interview

What a joy to speak with Kerah Oliveira at the Beth Zion's Women's Retreat on February 7.  
Kerah has been helping lead worship since she was nine, as well as a contributing member of her family's band, Zemer Levav. Her first performance on stage was when she was 13. The band has averaged at least two concerts a week for the past ten years. She has been performing her own material for the past nine. Kerah is in the process of compiling her debut solo album. Her sound is rooted in folk with some alternative and indie influences. Subject wise, the material is all based on life experiences, and her faith in God is one of her biggest and most consistent inspirations for writing, playing and sharing music.
"I just want to take people on a journey through the good and bad things I've experienced in life, and share about the love Yeshua has shown me again and again through every situation," she says on her website. "All the music I share is to bring glory to God and magnify His creativity."

For more information about Kerah Oliveira, please visit www.keraholiveira.com.

Sunday, February 16, 2014

Grant Berry Interview #2

What a thrill to have Grant Berry back on Bagels and Blessings!   We talked about his new book, "The Ezekiel Generation" and I played lots of wonderful music.   Since it's Valentine's Day weekend I reminded you that God loves you very much and we should also be thinking about how we show God we love Him.   We heard wonderful music by Jonathan Settel, Sally Klein O'Connor, Sharon Wilbur, Marty Goetz, Misha Goetz, Paul Wilbur and the Schleps. 

As a reminder, Grant Berry is a Jewish believer in Yeshua, Jesus the Messiah. For most of His spiritual life, he has been both an entrepreneur and a minister of the Gospel. He founded and built three cosmetic companies as well as a number of ministries focused on reaching Jewish people.

He has founded Messiah's House and Reconnecting Ministries to "properly communicate a message of spiritual reconnection between Israel and the Church." It's a subject he knows well as a Messianic Jew whose own life story is one of such reconnection. Grant believes that in this day, there is great power to be loosed upon both Israel and the Church, as G-d's spiritual family between Jew and Gentile gets connected. View his monthly articles on Charismamag.com under Standing With Israel.  His latest book, "The Ezekiel Generation", was lauched in October.  It was written for the Church to help them reconnect to their first born brother Israel in the Spirit.

Please visit the website @reconnectingministries.org for more information.

Monday, February 10, 2014

Music from Israel!

This is an exciting show that features fantastic music from Messianic recording artists who live in Israel.   Featured in this program are Avner & Rachel Boskey, Karen Davis, Shani Ferguson, Barry & Batya Segal and Rivka Whitten.   Both the Boskeys & the Segals have new CDs out so you'll get to hear some of their new tunes.

Grab a bagel and a cup of coffee -- you're gonna love this one!


Thursday, February 6, 2014

Charles Gardner Interview-2

Today I aired a recent Skype interview with author and speaker Charles Gardner. 

Charles is a 64-year-old South African-born journalist living in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, England. He has followed the Lord for over 40 years and, though having worked mainly in the secular press, has also launched several Christian publications.
 
Having taken early retirement from his regular job as a sports editor, he is now working for CMJ (the Church's Ministry among the Jewish people), a 204-year-old Anglican mission whose founders include the legendary William Wilberforce and who now also have a growing presence in the USA. Recently in Jerusalem he met one of the key leaders in America (from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania). His link with CMJ goes back to his early days as a believer when he was charged with the responsibility of writing to missionaries then working among the Falasha Jews of Ethiopia. His new work is still in communications, specifically editing the mission's quarterly Prayer Focus for supporters and helping to prepare for a unique conference in Jerusalem this May focused on deepening the bonds of reconciliation between Arab & Jewish believers throughout the Middle East. “I have had a heart for Israel for a long time. But three years ago, while reading Isaiah, I felt strongly impressed to be a ‘Helper of Israel’. So here I am, ready to help.”
 
Charles has just published Israel the Chosen (available from Amazon), is married to Linda, 56, who teaches Christianity and Judaism in primary schools, and has four children and seven grandchildren.
 
Today's show features new music from Avner & Rachel Boskey from their new CD, "Four Winds."

Sunday, January 26, 2014

Tamrah Aeryn-Alexander Interview

Today I had the privilege to speak with Tamrah Aeryn-Alexander!  Tamrah is a classically trained pianist, self-taught guitarist, and multi-instrumentalist who has been composing music as long as she can remember. Aside from releasing her own Messianic debut album, "A Place in Him," she is the co-writer and producer for Natasha Kraus-Reynold's albums, "In the Beginning," "Children of the Light" and the single "Mikamocha." She is currently the praise and worship leader at Brit Ahm Messianic Synagogue in Pensacola, Fla., where she continues to compose new music and produce music by other artists.

Today's show featured her music and it was a fun interview in spite of some technical difficulties with the phone.  For more info about her music please visit  http://www.tamrahaeryn-alexander.com, psalmplace.com or Echad Records (echadrecords.com).

Saturday, January 18, 2014

Ted Pearce Interview

It was great to have Ted back on Bagels and Blessings!   Not only do I love his music and passion for the Lord but he's just such a sweet man.   What a fun interview!   Today's program featured Ted's music and a wonderful chat about the March for Remembrance.

Ted's newest album, his first studio release from Moshav Records, was "Emergency," which was released in November 2011. "Emergency" is all new Messianic worship music with a klezmer influence. Klezmer music is a musical tradition of the Ashkenazic Jews of Eastern Europe. Played by professional musicians called klezmorim, the genre originally consisted of dance tunes and instrumental display pieces for weddings and other celebrations. The genre has its origins in Eastern Europe.

Ted decided to take a more traditional approach on this new album. It brings one back to authentic roots of Jewish music, while incorporating Messianic themes.  Ted was blessed to have Phil York produce this CD. York is one of the best known producers in Dallas, Texas and has won three Grammy awards, including one for "Red Headed Stranger" by Willie Nelson.  To learn more about Ted Pearce, visit www.tedpearce.com.

Sunday, January 12, 2014

Brian Samuel Interview

It's always good to talk to my buddy Brian Samuel.   You'll enjoy great music, including songs from Sue Samuel (of course!).   Brian gets us up to date on what's happening in Haiti.

Brian Samuel, along with his wife Sue Samuel, has been in the Messianic movement since 1997 when he first accepted Yeshua as his Messiah. Brian served at Beth Zion Messianic Synagogue in New Jersey as elder and worship director until 2007, when he and Sue moved to Rhode Island. Since then, he has served at Mishkahn David Messianic Synagogue in Rhode Island. In the summer of 2013, Brian and Sue were ordained as Rabbi and Rebbetzin of Mishkahn David, and they have served in this capacity since September 2013. Brian has been and continues to be blessed to minister, along with Sue, in support of the music ministry that Adonai has entrusted to her.

Sunday, January 5, 2014

Karol Joseph Interview

Happy New Year!   This was the first show of 2014.   Great music from Jonathan Settel, Craig Taubman, Deborah Kline Iantorno, Paul Wilbur, Misha and Marty Goetz!

I had a delightful conversation with my dear friend Karol Joseph.  Karol leads the branch in Brooklyn, N.Y. of Jews for Jesus (J4J) and heads their new missionary training program. Karol grew up in a conservative Jewish home in the Boston area and became a believer in Jesus in 1988. At the time she was working in the health care industry and studying health care policy at Brandeis University. She left Brandeis to join the J4J staff in 1990 and has since served in New York City, Boston, Toronto and Los Angeles before returning to New York City in 1998. In 2007 Karol opened the branch in Brooklyn, the borough with the fastest-growing and most concentrated Jewish population in New York City.