Dear Friends:
Last Shabbat morning, we read the stirring words of Zechariah in the Haftarah, “Not by might, nor by power, but by My ‘Spirit,’” (4:6) will salvation and restoration come to the People of Israel. But despite its translation, I tend to read this verse as “both/and”: not only by might or power, but also with ruah – with spirit – we can overcome those who seek to destroy us.
That is also the lesson this week in parashat Shelah Lekha, when twelve spies enter the Land of Israel. They return to the people to say that the mission is impossible, but Joshua and Caleb insist that, with God's help, the Israelites can surely prevail. The Israelites will need a strong army, but they also need ruah – spiritual strength, faith, and resilience – to enter the Promised Land, flowing with milk and honey.
Those of us outside of Israel can’t do much to bolster the physical strength of our people in Israel, but we can bolster their spiritual resilience, including being together this Friday as we welcome Shabbat on Zoom together as a global movement with our communities in Israel. Let’s come together to sing, pray, and be spiritually present in solidarity and strength.
And may the might of our forces, and the power of our spirit, lead to a time of peace and prosperity for Israel, for its neighbors, for the Jewish people, and for all humanity.
Warm regards,
Jacob Blumenthal, CEO of USCJ and RA
Israeli Colleagues Update
Thursday, June 19 at 11:00am ET / 8:00am PT / 6:00pm Israel
We will gather in support of our colleagues in Israel. Nathalie Lastreger from Kfar Vradim, Elisha Wolfin from Zichron Yaakov, and Yosef Baruch Fromer from Omer will share their experiences.
Register Now
Kabbalat Shabbat with Masorti Israel
Friday, June 20 at 11:00am ET / 8:00am PT / 6:00pm Israel
Enter Zoom Event Here
Prayer from Masorti Israel
The Masorti Movement in Israel has written a Prayer for Times of War to meet the current moment. Download the PDF here.
Please note that this prayer is being shared directly from our colleagues in Israel. Please feel free to adapt the prayer to the needs of your community.
Peer Support with Masorti Communities in Israel
Our Masorti communities in Israel need our solidarity and support. Sign up now to be matched with a congregation in Israel to learn about the challenges they are facing and to let them know that they are not alone.
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Community Security Recommendations
Our partners at SCN have compiled a list of security recommendations for synagogues and Jewish institutions. Please review the recommendations here.
High Holiday Security Preparedness
Thursday, June 26 at 2:00pm ET / 11:00am PT
It’s never too early to make a plan for safety and security for the largest crowds of the year. Join SCN for a 30-minute briefing.