Swiss Jewish in Switzerland

Jews have lived in Switzerland since the 13th century. They frequently faced persecution and lived in the poorer sections of the main Swiss cities. They were primarily confined to working in the area of money lending, which also led to expulsion from the country at certain times. They are united in the Swiss Federation of Jewish Communities which represents 23 Jewish organizations and 17 Jewish communities. These communities comprise ultra-Orthodox, Orthodox, Reform and Liberal Jews. Commonly, Swiss Jews work in the textile and clock industries. In 1999, Switzerland elected Ruth Dreifuss as their first female president. She is Jewish.

Ministry Obstacles

By keeping themselves removed from Christians for fear of oppression, Jews have cut themselves off from hearing about the salvation that Jesus offers.

Outreach Ideas

Christians need to maintain a consistent outreach of friendship, so the Jewish people in Switzerland will open their minds, hearts and souls to know the grace of God and his love for them.

Scripture Focus

"This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant."  Hebrews 7:22

Scripture Prayer

Pray that this people group believes in Jesus and embraces the blessings of the New Covenant.

Prayer Focus

There are no followers of Christ among Switzerland's Jewish population. Pray this would soon change. Pray that God would cause the Swiss Jews to know the living Lord through being open to the witness of God's caring, patient people. Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among Swiss Jews.