Resolution Celebrating the State of Israel

“…if I do not keep Jerusalem in memory even at my happiest hour.” (Ps. 137:6)

Whereas in the coming year (2007-2008) the Jewish People will mark the following historic events:
the 40th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem (May 17, 2007);
the 90th anniversary of the Balfour Declaration (November 2, 2007);
the 60th anniversary of the UN Partition Plan (November 29, 2007);
the 60th  anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel (May 2008);

Whereas the Conservative movement has historically espoused Zionism and the rebuilding of the Jewish State and its rabbis and leaders have been pillars of the Masorti movement, Schechter Institute, TALI schools and the Fuchsberg Center; and

Whereas the Conservative movement has sponsored such programs as USY Summer Pilgrimage, the Conservative Yeshiva and Ramah Israel Seminar with great pride.

Therefore be it resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly urge congregations, schools and other institutions to plan educational, communal and cultural programs and activities in honor of the upcoming events including trips to Israel, special Shabbatot on the themes of Israel and Zionism as coordinated by MERCAZ and Leadership Council of Conservative Judaism; and

Be it further resolved that members of the Rabbinical Assembly initiate MERCAZ membership drives in their institutions, and fundraising efforts on behalf of Masorti institutions in Israel. 

Passed by the Rabbinical Assembly Plenum, February, 2007