Dear Friends:
We have been grieving since October 7. As Israel seeks to defend itself from terror, we watch from afar, praying for a peaceful resolution, hurting as we learn of the loss of life. We pray for the wellbeing of those taken captive, the young and the innocent whose fate is far from certain. We balk at the soaring levels of antisemitism that exist in every crevice of our society: government, universities, school boards, urban and rural spaces alike. Since October 7, we have reflected and learned, sung out and wondered. We have given to the causes that move us. We have felt together the full weight of these impossible months.
I believe that the time is right to see Israel for ourselves and stand firmly by our brothers and sisters. This is a moment in which we are called upon to show our solidarity, our commitment to an Israel of justice and opportunity and our enduring belief in a welcoming homeland for our people. Consider this my invitation to you to join me from Saturday night February 24 through Friday morning March 1 as we endeavor to educate ourselves, help those in need and transform our understanding of Israel up close and firsthand. Our trip will be brief, intense and highly transformative.
Information on the trip, including prices, flight information, itinerary and how to register, can be found here: https://secure.ayelet.com/
Please be in touch with any questions.
May 2024 be a year of greater peace for all.
Rabbi Benjamin P. David