What happens when a boy grows up in the crossfire of Lebanon’s civil war, trains in Israel’s military camps, and survives a bomb blast by a miracle? Pastor Pierre Altuna’s life is a mix of danger, loss, and unexpected grace.
From being kidnapped by the PLO to fighting Hezbollah, his story is filled with moments where death seemed certain - until God intervened.
But this is more than a soldier’s memoir. It’s the journey of a man who knew “Christian” only as a label - until relentless love from his wife and a persistent pastor led him to surrender to Yeshua.
Now leading a vibrant Messianic congregation in northern Israel, Pastor Pierre stands as both shepherd and protector, guiding his flock through rockets, war, and the hope of reconciliation between Jew and Gentile.
This is faith forged in fire, hope born in the shadow of conflict, and a call to stand with Israel for the sake of God’s Kingdom.
Key Takeaways
- Lebanon’s Civil War shaped his identity - and his understanding of survival.
- Kidnapped by the PLO - rescued only through family intervention.
- Trained in Israel - learning the mindset of Hezbollah.
- Survived a bombing - a helmet swap he calls a miracle.
- From cultural Christian to believer - through his wife’s faith and a persistent pastor.
- Leads a multi-ethnic Messianic congregation in Nahariya, near the Lebanese border.
- Equips soldiers - providing gear, training, and spiritual encouragement.
- Sees Israel as a living picture of resurrection after the Holocaust.
- Prays for peace between Israel and Lebanon like the days of Solomon and King Hiram.
Chapter Markers
- 00:00 – Welcome from Nahariya, Israel
- 00:54 – Growing up in war-torn Lebanon
- 02:36 – The political-religious tensions of Lebanon
- 06:13 – The PLO, Fatahland, and the road to war
- 07:02 – Kidnapped at a checkpoint
- 08:24 – Training in Israel during the conflict
- 10:14 – Marriage, family, and life under fire
- 12:55 – Crossing into Israel in 2000
- 14:18 – October 7th and living on the northern front
- 15:04 – A soldier’s life without real faith
- 19:50 – The bombing that changed everything
- 23:44 – Coming to faith in Yeshua
- 24:12 – A congregation like a bouquet of nations
- 29:35 – Serving the community during war
- 33:02 – Training IDF soldiers on Hezbollah’s mindset
- 36:19 – Understanding God’s purpose in his survival
- 36:21 – Is God done with Israel?
- 38:47 – Israel as a living example of resurrection
- 40:05 – A prayer for Israel, the soldiers, and peace with Lebanon
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