What a wonderful trip! Our recent B’nai Israel trip to Israel was life changing for some and dramatic for all of us. The memories, the pictures and souvenirs will long be treasured as we reflect on the eleven days that we spent together in Israel. I am so thankful that our group of 24 were able to travel safely and experience Israel from a unique B’nai Israel perspective. (see our photos at http://bnaigainesville.smugmug.com/ )
Our last Shabbat in Israel was special in a number of ways. There was the prayer at the Western Wall, the drama of being in Jerusalem for Shabbat and havdalah at a Yeshiva. But, more importantly, that last Shabbat also marked two unique events on the Jewish calendar. First, was the observance of Shabbat Zachor, the special Sabbath of Remembrance that always precedes Purim. We are commanded to read the words on that day to “remember Amalek” and the evil deeds perpetrated on the Jewish people. But one memory brings up another and when in Israel we could not help but remember the brave men and women who fought so hard, over so many years to secure the State of Israel with the hope and dream that one day we can live together in peace.
“Zachor” or “remembrance” works not only to remember the sad or difficult things that have befallen our people. We also must remember some of the good times, the richness, opulence and piety that our forefather enjoyed in the worship of God. We recall the days of the Temple when priests and levis took care to protect, as best they could, the sanctity of the Jewish people. We recall the dispersion, the shtetles in Europe and the rich life that Jews developed in Europe, Spain and North Africa. We recall the Jewish enlightenment and the development of Jewish philosophy and ethical identity. Yes, remembrance is one key to our knowing just who we are and where we came from. Memory can sustain us and bring us great richness.
But there was another facet to that last Shabbat in Israel for it was also the first parashah in the third book of the bible, named Vayikra (known in English as Leviticus). One of the interesting points of Shabbat Vayikra is that the aleph of the first word (which we know as Vayikra – translated “As God called to Moses”) is written significantly smaller than the surrounding letters. Why? Why not write the aleph the same size as the surrounding letters?
Many reasons can be given for the small “aleph” in the word. Some suggest that it points to the personality of Moses. Others suggest that it tells us something about God’s message to Moses. But the truth is neither of those reasons. No, the truth is that the word Vayikra ends in an aleph and the next word in this Hebrew sentence is “Ail” which means “God”. Both the end of “Vayikra” and the beginning of “Ail” contain the letter “aleph” and ancient Hebrew manuscripts frequently condensed letters to save valuable parchment. At some point in time, an ancient scribe, worried that either word would be misunderstood inserted a small “aleph” into “Vayikra” to indicate the correct spelling of the word and to show that this letter was inserted. This scribe worried that unless the place were saved, different meanings would corrupt our holy scripture.
It occurred to me while in Israel that these tidbits on that Shabbat could teach us all a lesson appropriate for Israel’s 60th Anniversary. You see, our memories empower us to build upon the successes of our ancestors and to not repeat the errors of our forefathers. Memory is a crucial aspect for understanding the Israeli vitality in persisting to fight for peace in the Middle East. And too, the small aleph of the word Vayikra teaches us that it is absolutely crucial to “hold the place” securely so that our future is not misunderstood. At all costs we must be ready to defend our people and our country for it is in them that the future is truly held.
There are many to be thanked for our wonderful trip to Israel but none would have traveled if it were not for the efforts of Taal, Erin, Candice, and Einat. Their support made the trip easy and memorable. Mostly though, I want to thank the 24 who traveled with me and gave me hope that one day soon our children will celebrate the 90th Anniversary of the founding of the state. They will celebrate because we will have taught them that memory is now theirs and that holding a place – whether in a text or in territory that we call the State of Israel – can be so very important.
Bvracha,
Rabbi David Kaiman
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Final Day and the Trip Home
Our last day....and a very powerful! Checking out of the hotel we proceeded to Yad Vashem - Israel's Holocaust Museum. On the way to the museum we learned that this morning the German Chancellor would also be visiting the same spot. Besides the huge irony of being at the museum at the same time as the Chancellor of Germany we anticipated huge delays as security and traffic would be tough. Nevertheless we proceeded to the museum and all agreed it was powerful and for some overwhelming.
The highlight of our visit to the museum was a wonderful presentation by Cynthia W who is the daughter of our members Helen and Eli G. Cynthia is part of an exciting initiative at Yad Vashem (hopefully we'll post more on this soon) and it was so wonderful to find yet another Gainesville connection in Israel.
Lunch was at the Yad Vashem cafeteria and then we proceeded to have a bit of shopping time at Ben Yehuda Street before the final banquet in Israel for the group.
At the final dinner the members of the group each had a chance to speak of their experiences and reactions to the trip and to Israel. In many ways this was, for me, the most precious moments of the trip. Not only has Israel touched each and every participant, but the group has developed and coalesced in a very special way. Special friendships were formed by each of us on the trip and even though we all knew each other to some degree before travel (from the group meetings; from shul functions, etc) we gained a deeper appreciation for each other and have bonded in a meaningful way. Kol Hakavod to all of you.
We also learned that tomorrow our own Todd Hasak-Lowy will be appearing on the Israeli version of "Good Morning America" to discuss his short story book which has recently been issued in Hebrew. We can't wait to see the clip, Todd!
The trip home was ... long! But we managed the tight security and customs inspections and all arrived safely. As I write this we are back in Gainesville but dead tired after some 30 hours of travel/being awake. A final essay on the trip will be here shortly. Stay tuned.
The highlight of our visit to the museum was a wonderful presentation by Cynthia W who is the daughter of our members Helen and Eli G. Cynthia is part of an exciting initiative at Yad Vashem (hopefully we'll post more on this soon) and it was so wonderful to find yet another Gainesville connection in Israel.
Lunch was at the Yad Vashem cafeteria and then we proceeded to have a bit of shopping time at Ben Yehuda Street before the final banquet in Israel for the group.
At the final dinner the members of the group each had a chance to speak of their experiences and reactions to the trip and to Israel. In many ways this was, for me, the most precious moments of the trip. Not only has Israel touched each and every participant, but the group has developed and coalesced in a very special way. Special friendships were formed by each of us on the trip and even though we all knew each other to some degree before travel (from the group meetings; from shul functions, etc) we gained a deeper appreciation for each other and have bonded in a meaningful way. Kol Hakavod to all of you.
We also learned that tomorrow our own Todd Hasak-Lowy will be appearing on the Israeli version of "Good Morning America" to discuss his short story book which has recently been issued in Hebrew. We can't wait to see the clip, Todd!
The trip home was ... long! But we managed the tight security and customs inspections and all arrived safely. As I write this we are back in Gainesville but dead tired after some 30 hours of travel/being awake. A final essay on the trip will be here shortly. Stay tuned.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
From the Heights to the Depths
What visit to Israel could happen without a trip to Masada and the Dead Sea? Those were today's destinations and we were blessed with almost perfect cool weather. A few pictures are attached...unfortunately the water at the Dead Sea included a steep incline and not many were able to manage a dip in the water!
Tomorrow we will have our final day and journey home. Although we have a full day scheduled I'm not sure I'll be able to post tomorrow....Stay tuned though because final thoughts will be coming up during the flight home.....
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Shabbat in Yerushalayim
It truly has been a Gainesville shabbat in Jerusalem. We left the hotel before shabbat to visit the Davidson Archeological park located on the southern end of the Western wall. Areyeh, our guide, explained the digs and we learned about the Temple and its eventual destruction.
As evening approached we gathered in a corner under Robinsons Arch, at the Wall, and began our Kabbalat Shabbat service. Although it was cold and windy we found a small spot to light shabbat candles and before long our voices rang out with the songs of a spirited welcoming of shabbat. The whole group sang out and filled the space with the joy of shabbat and celebration of standing at the wall. (I was moved that just to our right another Conservative congregation, just moments behind us, began their service. We were seperated by a few feet at this moment - and probably thousands of miles apart in our home communities, but here at the Wall there was little seperating us and I reveled in their echoes of the same words, tunes and songs that connect us one to the other.)
A few took taxis back to the hotel but most of us walked through the alleyways of the Old City to celebrate shabbat dinner together. Despite the cold we were warmed by the memorable alleyways and byways that snaked through the city. Walking by the individual flats we could smell shabbat dinners prepared for familes.
And how special it was that when we arrived at the hotel and friends greeted us. Nine young people, all connected to Gainesville in one way or another were my guests for a scrumptuous meal (in general I don't put names on the blog for privacy and other reasons but all you guests know who you are - we enjoyed you Rafi, Sarah Beth, Ellie, Micah, Becky, Margo and partners!). After dinner we had a rousing Birkat Hamazon and these young people shared their special knowledge of Gainesville, their experiences in Israel and the passion and idealism that young people bring when living and spending time in this special place. We laughed and smiled and I left the group in the lobby as they continued celebrating their Gainesville connection in the lobby for more than an hour.
Shabbat morning saw us all off in different directions - exploring the richness of spiritual life in Jerusalem. Rebeca and I took several to the closest synagogue which happened to be Moreshet Yisrael, the Conservative synagogue on the corner of Agron Street and King George. The rabbi of that synagogue had been a Chevruta of mine during our rabbinical school years and it was wonderful to renew friendships and share in magnificent davening by talented congregants. Another guest of Moreshet Yisrael this morning was the Assistant Dean at American Jewish University in Los Angeles who is not only a former Gator but actually a current member of our Congregation! Good to see you Rabbi A! Many others attended services at Shira Hadasha - an Orthodox feminist minyan. Still more went on a walking tour of the neighborhood and two even got lost on an adventure of a lifetime!
After lunch together we all retired for a well-deserved Shabbat menucha (rest) as we prepared for Seudah Shlishit (the third Shabbat meal). At 4:30pm we walked to the Conservative Yeshiva where we were greeted by another good friend and colleague who is the Director of the Fuchsburg Center for Conservative Judaism in Jerusalem. What a beautiful facility! I was touched to see a group of Solomon Schecter students from Westchester County, New York who were on their two month Senior year trip to Israel and Poland. After a nice meal in the cafeteria we spent time in study with one of our own community members who is a third year rabbinical student at JTS. Thank you Rafi for an inspired teaching. We also met another of my colleagues who is currently doing pastoral care work for the survivors of Hurricane Katrina along the Gulf Coast and who just happened to be on vacation in Jerusalem this week. Best of all we were joined by the Gottschalk family (former members of our congregation) who have returned to Isreal. Again, our congregation family spreads far! So good to see you!
After a soulful Havdalah we boarded the bus to head back to the Western Wall for a tour of the tunnels underneath the wall. Informative, inspiring and educational!
Some have now made their way back to Ben Yehudah street while many have gone to rest as we prepare for our adventure toward Masada and the Dead Sea tomorrow.
Of course there are no pictures today since I did not have my camera with me because of Shabbat (no pictures on Shabbat)....but our memories live best in our hearts and souls!
Shavua Tov (Have a good week)!
As evening approached we gathered in a corner under Robinsons Arch, at the Wall, and began our Kabbalat Shabbat service. Although it was cold and windy we found a small spot to light shabbat candles and before long our voices rang out with the songs of a spirited welcoming of shabbat. The whole group sang out and filled the space with the joy of shabbat and celebration of standing at the wall. (I was moved that just to our right another Conservative congregation, just moments behind us, began their service. We were seperated by a few feet at this moment - and probably thousands of miles apart in our home communities, but here at the Wall there was little seperating us and I reveled in their echoes of the same words, tunes and songs that connect us one to the other.)
A few took taxis back to the hotel but most of us walked through the alleyways of the Old City to celebrate shabbat dinner together. Despite the cold we were warmed by the memorable alleyways and byways that snaked through the city. Walking by the individual flats we could smell shabbat dinners prepared for familes.
And how special it was that when we arrived at the hotel and friends greeted us. Nine young people, all connected to Gainesville in one way or another were my guests for a scrumptuous meal (in general I don't put names on the blog for privacy and other reasons but all you guests know who you are - we enjoyed you Rafi, Sarah Beth, Ellie, Micah, Becky, Margo and partners!). After dinner we had a rousing Birkat Hamazon and these young people shared their special knowledge of Gainesville, their experiences in Israel and the passion and idealism that young people bring when living and spending time in this special place. We laughed and smiled and I left the group in the lobby as they continued celebrating their Gainesville connection in the lobby for more than an hour.
Shabbat morning saw us all off in different directions - exploring the richness of spiritual life in Jerusalem. Rebeca and I took several to the closest synagogue which happened to be Moreshet Yisrael, the Conservative synagogue on the corner of Agron Street and King George. The rabbi of that synagogue had been a Chevruta of mine during our rabbinical school years and it was wonderful to renew friendships and share in magnificent davening by talented congregants. Another guest of Moreshet Yisrael this morning was the Assistant Dean at American Jewish University in Los Angeles who is not only a former Gator but actually a current member of our Congregation! Good to see you Rabbi A! Many others attended services at Shira Hadasha - an Orthodox feminist minyan. Still more went on a walking tour of the neighborhood and two even got lost on an adventure of a lifetime!
After lunch together we all retired for a well-deserved Shabbat menucha (rest) as we prepared for Seudah Shlishit (the third Shabbat meal). At 4:30pm we walked to the Conservative Yeshiva where we were greeted by another good friend and colleague who is the Director of the Fuchsburg Center for Conservative Judaism in Jerusalem. What a beautiful facility! I was touched to see a group of Solomon Schecter students from Westchester County, New York who were on their two month Senior year trip to Israel and Poland. After a nice meal in the cafeteria we spent time in study with one of our own community members who is a third year rabbinical student at JTS. Thank you Rafi for an inspired teaching. We also met another of my colleagues who is currently doing pastoral care work for the survivors of Hurricane Katrina along the Gulf Coast and who just happened to be on vacation in Jerusalem this week. Best of all we were joined by the Gottschalk family (former members of our congregation) who have returned to Isreal. Again, our congregation family spreads far! So good to see you!
After a soulful Havdalah we boarded the bus to head back to the Western Wall for a tour of the tunnels underneath the wall. Informative, inspiring and educational!
Some have now made their way back to Ben Yehudah street while many have gone to rest as we prepare for our adventure toward Masada and the Dead Sea tomorrow.
Of course there are no pictures today since I did not have my camera with me because of Shabbat (no pictures on Shabbat)....but our memories live best in our hearts and souls!
Shavua Tov (Have a good week)!
Friday, March 14, 2008
Jerusalem of Gold
Shabbat is approaching and I wanted to get a post up here before sundown in Israel. We are so pleased that today Yardena and Amos Kedar have joined our tour through Monday. Here in Jerusalem we feel that with the Kedars with us we share in a special shabbat wholeness in the city of peace...the city of Shalom.
Today has been a wonderful adventure. We started early and went directly to the City of David presentation and had some panoramic views of the city built by King David. From there we traveled a short distance to the Warren Tunnel and explanations of the tunnel for the Shiloach spring.
Then on to the old Jewish Quarter of the city for a bite to eat and some all important shopping! Once a bit of shopping was out of our system we walked down to the Kotel (Western Wall) where we had a full explanation and then went to the wall (Men on left and women on right) to daven a quick mincha before returning to the bus and the hotel.
In a little bit we will return to the Kotel area where we will tour the Davidson Archeological museum area and then to the Robinson Arch where we will daven Kabbalat Shabbat together (this is a special area designated for Conservative egalitarian services) and then walk back to the hotel.
Tonight we have a very festive shabbat dinner planned --- we are being joined by some very special guests: Our own Gainesville students and friends who are in Yerushayim this year studying! Also we have a friend and former student who made aliyah and possibly one of my rabbinic colleagues who is also visiting in Yerushayim today. So several guests at our shabbat table tonight! Another feeling of wholeness for shabbat!
Tomorrow we are spreading out through the city for some interesting Shabbat services and in the evening a special Seudah Shlishit at the Conservative Yeshiva. More later! Shabbat Shalom.
Today has been a wonderful adventure. We started early and went directly to the City of David presentation and had some panoramic views of the city built by King David. From there we traveled a short distance to the Warren Tunnel and explanations of the tunnel for the Shiloach spring.
Then on to the old Jewish Quarter of the city for a bite to eat and some all important shopping! Once a bit of shopping was out of our system we walked down to the Kotel (Western Wall) where we had a full explanation and then went to the wall (Men on left and women on right) to daven a quick mincha before returning to the bus and the hotel.
In a little bit we will return to the Kotel area where we will tour the Davidson Archeological museum area and then to the Robinson Arch where we will daven Kabbalat Shabbat together (this is a special area designated for Conservative egalitarian services) and then walk back to the hotel.
Tonight we have a very festive shabbat dinner planned --- we are being joined by some very special guests: Our own Gainesville students and friends who are in Yerushayim this year studying! Also we have a friend and former student who made aliyah and possibly one of my rabbinic colleagues who is also visiting in Yerushayim today. So several guests at our shabbat table tonight! Another feeling of wholeness for shabbat!
Tomorrow we are spreading out through the city for some interesting Shabbat services and in the evening a special Seudah Shlishit at the Conservative Yeshiva. More later! Shabbat Shalom.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
The Road from Tsfat to Jerusalem
Shalom Everybody! We're so happy that so many of you are enjoying our blog. We love sharing the trip with you.
We left the hotel in Tsfat after breakfast and began our drive south. We stopped at the Silan Date Moshava Store in the middle of a date grove. It was a fantastic stop as all enjoyed the sample fruit and many purchases were made. And then the drive continued...
Moving southward we were on Highway 90 which is one of the longest routes in Israel. We traveled down the Jordan Valley and circled round the Arab city of Jericho. Along the route we saw Bedouins, camels, the Jordanian border and dry parched land. During the trip our tour guide showed a video of the troubles of the city of Sderot (we wrote about our visit to the Sedorot products fair earlier in the week). Some took the long ride to rest, relax or visit with one another.
Before too long we entered the city of Jerusalem and immediately climbed Mount Scopus toward the Hebrew University campus. We stopped at a scenic overlook to view the whole city and conducted a brief ceremony marking our entry into the city. I spoke about the upcoming Shabbat -- it is Shabbat Zachor (The Sabbath of Memory). Today we were not only remembering other visits to Israel but we were also recalling a long history of our people and the connection that we share with our history. Even more, we are creating for ourselves new memories which will last a lifetime as we begin our exploration of Ir Hakodesh - the Holy City. Wine and a gigantic Challah helped commemorate the event along with the appropriate blessings.
Before lunch we met with the director of the Hebrew University Hillel who told us of that fateful day, only 6 years ago, when a terrorist detonated a bomb in the cafeteria that we would be eating in today. Her story was powerful and moving and made many of us reflect on the dedication of the young people who come from all over the world to study at Hebrew U.
Stepping back on the buses the group continued to Hadassah Hospital. I recieved many reports of the wondeful visit (and Hadassah's great giftshop) but I did not attend the tour. Instead Rebeca and I continued to Shaaray Tzedek hospital to visit a friend who had been in Gainesville some time ago visiting her close relatives and is now recuperating from a serious illness. Our community spreads out wide and far and I feel so honored to be able to bring a bit of Gainesville warmth.
We had dinner on our own...many went to Ben Yehuda but I suspect many have turned in for the night! Tomorrow.....Off to see Jerusalem!
We left the hotel in Tsfat after breakfast and began our drive south. We stopped at the Silan Date Moshava Store in the middle of a date grove. It was a fantastic stop as all enjoyed the sample fruit and many purchases were made. And then the drive continued...
Moving southward we were on Highway 90 which is one of the longest routes in Israel. We traveled down the Jordan Valley and circled round the Arab city of Jericho. Along the route we saw Bedouins, camels, the Jordanian border and dry parched land. During the trip our tour guide showed a video of the troubles of the city of Sderot (we wrote about our visit to the Sedorot products fair earlier in the week). Some took the long ride to rest, relax or visit with one another.
Before too long we entered the city of Jerusalem and immediately climbed Mount Scopus toward the Hebrew University campus. We stopped at a scenic overlook to view the whole city and conducted a brief ceremony marking our entry into the city. I spoke about the upcoming Shabbat -- it is Shabbat Zachor (The Sabbath of Memory). Today we were not only remembering other visits to Israel but we were also recalling a long history of our people and the connection that we share with our history. Even more, we are creating for ourselves new memories which will last a lifetime as we begin our exploration of Ir Hakodesh - the Holy City. Wine and a gigantic Challah helped commemorate the event along with the appropriate blessings.
Before lunch we met with the director of the Hebrew University Hillel who told us of that fateful day, only 6 years ago, when a terrorist detonated a bomb in the cafeteria that we would be eating in today. Her story was powerful and moving and made many of us reflect on the dedication of the young people who come from all over the world to study at Hebrew U.
Stepping back on the buses the group continued to Hadassah Hospital. I recieved many reports of the wondeful visit (and Hadassah's great giftshop) but I did not attend the tour. Instead Rebeca and I continued to Shaaray Tzedek hospital to visit a friend who had been in Gainesville some time ago visiting her close relatives and is now recuperating from a serious illness. Our community spreads out wide and far and I feel so honored to be able to bring a bit of Gainesville warmth.
We had dinner on our own...many went to Ben Yehuda but I suspect many have turned in for the night! Tomorrow.....Off to see Jerusalem!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Dancing on the Kinneret
We started the day with a gorgeous ride up to the Golan Heights. High on a mountain we viewed the northern sector of Israel and heard the story of Israel’s struggle within this area. From there we drove down to a small shopping area where we were able to enjoy a fast lunch and a little shopping. Some toured the Golan Winery and others viewed a multi-media presentation on Israel’s struggling water problems.
With full stomachs we moved on to meet Rami, a real shepherd on a Moshav in the Golan area of Israel. We met many of his sheep and lambs and heard an explanation of the farming operation that Rami and his family maintained in Israel. The sheep were very friendly (as were Rami and his wife Batsheva) and we even got a chance to blow a home-made shofar that Rami had produced from the product of his sheep.
Our next stop was a gorgeous overview of the Kinneret where our guide, Aryeh explained much about the area and some of the problems facing Israel. Heading down the mountain we proceeded to Tiberias. A real highlight of the day was our boat ride on the Kinneret – as you may be able to tell from the pictures the sunset boatride turned out to be a floating dance-floor and what a party we had! Drumming, dancing, singing and smiles were had by all.
Dinner was seaside in Tiberias and after a long day we’ve returned to the hotel for well deserved sleep before we drive tomorrow to Jerusalem!
With full stomachs we moved on to meet Rami, a real shepherd on a Moshav in the Golan area of Israel. We met many of his sheep and lambs and heard an explanation of the farming operation that Rami and his family maintained in Israel. The sheep were very friendly (as were Rami and his wife Batsheva) and we even got a chance to blow a home-made shofar that Rami had produced from the product of his sheep.
Our next stop was a gorgeous overview of the Kinneret where our guide, Aryeh explained much about the area and some of the problems facing Israel. Heading down the mountain we proceeded to Tiberias. A real highlight of the day was our boat ride on the Kinneret – as you may be able to tell from the pictures the sunset boatride turned out to be a floating dance-floor and what a party we had! Drumming, dancing, singing and smiles were had by all.
Dinner was seaside in Tiberias and after a long day we’ve returned to the hotel for well deserved sleep before we drive tomorrow to Jerusalem!
Some Comments by Our Group
A beautiful trip – beautiful people – everyone is helpful. Aryeh is an excellent guide and Shlomo an excellent driver. All is great. (Rhoda)
Having a great time. Good group. A bit chilly and windy. Bed not great but fun trip. (Carol)
Sababa!!! (Awesome) Tel Aviv Beach on Shabbat. Think Arctic Chocolate! Shalom (Melinda)
Everybody here is working hard to make us feel welcome, which includes feeding us wonderful food with incredible spices and herbs. (Libby)
Great sites, great gide, great organization, great travelers, great food, great fun. Some moving experiences and places. Sababa. (Steve and Randy)
Bob and I, being in Israel, experiencing each event, planned meticulously by Areyeh, Taal and Rabbi K. Are having memories to last a lifetime with pictures to accompany them. (Connie)
The visit to the Army Base was fabulous. It was great getting to talk to the officers. Practicing English with the high school kids was a wonderful experience. And riding the Golf carts around the Hula Valley nature preserve was a lot of fun. (Kathy)
We are feeling great. We are doing a lot of walking and eating really good healthy food. Israel is really beautiful and we have seen so many interesting places. Met many cats. Too busy to shop! (Al and Gloria)
We send love from Israel! We are seeing many beautiful sites in a beautiful country! Have met Izzy’s cousins in Tel Aviv and will see another cousin in Jerusalem. (Roz and Izzy)
Having a great time. Good group. A bit chilly and windy. Bed not great but fun trip. (Carol)
Sababa!!! (Awesome) Tel Aviv Beach on Shabbat. Think Arctic Chocolate! Shalom (Melinda)
Everybody here is working hard to make us feel welcome, which includes feeding us wonderful food with incredible spices and herbs. (Libby)
Great sites, great gide, great organization, great travelers, great food, great fun. Some moving experiences and places. Sababa. (Steve and Randy)
Bob and I, being in Israel, experiencing each event, planned meticulously by Areyeh, Taal and Rabbi K. Are having memories to last a lifetime with pictures to accompany them. (Connie)
The visit to the Army Base was fabulous. It was great getting to talk to the officers. Practicing English with the high school kids was a wonderful experience. And riding the Golf carts around the Hula Valley nature preserve was a lot of fun. (Kathy)
We are feeling great. We are doing a lot of walking and eating really good healthy food. Israel is really beautiful and we have seen so many interesting places. Met many cats. Too busy to shop! (Al and Gloria)
We send love from Israel! We are seeing many beautiful sites in a beautiful country! Have met Izzy’s cousins in Tel Aviv and will see another cousin in Jerusalem. (Roz and Izzy)
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Mystics, Mystery and Johnnie Cash
It’s the end of another day and we know we’ve had a full day when we can’t even remember all that we’ve done today! In any event, I’ll try a quick summary….
We awoke to a brisk morning chill with a bright sun shining on the hills of Tzfat. We did a short walking tour of the town of Tzfat, including the Kabbalistic synagogue of the Lurianic Kabbalists and ending with shopping time through the artists’ colony of Tzfat. Our tour of the artist colony concluded with an interesting lecture by one of the kabbalistic artists who welcomed us to his shop and explained the art that he had produced inspired by his studies.
It was onward to a Druze village (a mystery faith) for lunch and then a short lecture near the border of Lebanon before we drove to the magnificent Hula Valley (Emek Hula) where we enjoyed a nature tour by golf cart. The sun was setting as we watched flocks of birds, wildlife of all types and many flowers, trees and lakes and canals. Dinner was interesting and delicious…a barbeque at a western-themed ranch with piped-in country-western music. Very unexpected in Israel!
Tomorrow we will try to have individual messages from the participants on the trip to fill this blog space. Stay tuned. In the meantime we’ll post a few pictures from today’s activities! Stay tuned!
We awoke to a brisk morning chill with a bright sun shining on the hills of Tzfat. We did a short walking tour of the town of Tzfat, including the Kabbalistic synagogue of the Lurianic Kabbalists and ending with shopping time through the artists’ colony of Tzfat. Our tour of the artist colony concluded with an interesting lecture by one of the kabbalistic artists who welcomed us to his shop and explained the art that he had produced inspired by his studies.
It was onward to a Druze village (a mystery faith) for lunch and then a short lecture near the border of Lebanon before we drove to the magnificent Hula Valley (Emek Hula) where we enjoyed a nature tour by golf cart. The sun was setting as we watched flocks of birds, wildlife of all types and many flowers, trees and lakes and canals. Dinner was interesting and delicious…a barbeque at a western-themed ranch with piped-in country-western music. Very unexpected in Israel!
Tomorrow we will try to have individual messages from the participants on the trip to fill this blog space. Stay tuned. In the meantime we’ll post a few pictures from today’s activities! Stay tuned!
Monday, March 10, 2008
New Friends and Ancient Cities
Despite the slight chill in the air the group assembled at the early hour of 6:30 am in the hotel restaurant for our final meal at the Renaissance Hotel. Bright and early we were on the bus heading north toward Hadera. Our first stop of the day was at a high school in Hadera where we were scheduled to participate with the Atidim Program that gives assistance to students. Our task was to meet with students who were preparing for oral English exams and let them practice their English.
We were ushered into the school’s library and were pleased to meet in small groups with students who were bright, enthusiastic and interested in practicing English and meeting us. It was fascinating to learn about the lives of these young people and we all made new friends instantly. The teachers were inspired and dedicated and spoke to us about how valuable it was for us to have time with the students.
Before leaving we made a special presentation of a gift to Atidim students who were graduating High School this year. Our gift of toiletry kits that they would need for the army would mean that their family’s would have one less expense before their children went off to serve their country. [Special note to our new friends in Hadera: We do plan on emailing and keeping in touch but email acccess is not really available to all of us until we return home to the states. L'hatzlacha on your exams!]
Upon our departure we exchanged email addresses with our new friends and we look forward to a long friendship with these outgoing and special students. Many of us were so impressed that we hope that we can establish some kind of regular relationship with the Atidim program so that we can continue to interface with the future of Israel.
One very nice experience while at the High School: Einat Dahari (our now famous shlicha) helped to arrange a visit by her mother and brother. Aliza and Ori it was wonderful to meet you! We knew all about you both already but meeting you was very special. Thank you for stopping by.
Ceasaria (our next stop) was beautiful and historic. Located on the Mediterranean this Roman ruin took us back to ancient days of Herod’s rule in the Holy Land. Our guide, Aryeh gave us an excellent synopsis of the site and we learned much.
Our next stop was for lunch – a quick falafel in a mall food court – before continuing to Haifa and a tour of a mixed Jewish/Arab neighborhood. Then it was up to the famous Bahai Temple in Haifa where participants had a unique option – rather than just look at the shrine and view we were offered the chance to hike down the 700 steps of the Bahai Gardens. What a hike is was! The view was stunning and surprisingly 700 steps goes by pretty quickly.
It was about a two hour drive to our hotel in Tzfat where we settled in and had dinner. Although we arrived after dark it is clear that the Rimmonim Hotel sports some beautiful views and we look forward to gathering for an early morning davening to appreciate our surroundings. We can already feel the special ruach kedosha (spiritual energy) that we will experience with tomorrow's sunrise.
We were ushered into the school’s library and were pleased to meet in small groups with students who were bright, enthusiastic and interested in practicing English and meeting us. It was fascinating to learn about the lives of these young people and we all made new friends instantly. The teachers were inspired and dedicated and spoke to us about how valuable it was for us to have time with the students.
Before leaving we made a special presentation of a gift to Atidim students who were graduating High School this year. Our gift of toiletry kits that they would need for the army would mean that their family’s would have one less expense before their children went off to serve their country. [Special note to our new friends in Hadera: We do plan on emailing and keeping in touch but email acccess is not really available to all of us until we return home to the states. L'hatzlacha on your exams!]
Upon our departure we exchanged email addresses with our new friends and we look forward to a long friendship with these outgoing and special students. Many of us were so impressed that we hope that we can establish some kind of regular relationship with the Atidim program so that we can continue to interface with the future of Israel.
One very nice experience while at the High School: Einat Dahari (our now famous shlicha) helped to arrange a visit by her mother and brother. Aliza and Ori it was wonderful to meet you! We knew all about you both already but meeting you was very special. Thank you for stopping by.
Ceasaria (our next stop) was beautiful and historic. Located on the Mediterranean this Roman ruin took us back to ancient days of Herod’s rule in the Holy Land. Our guide, Aryeh gave us an excellent synopsis of the site and we learned much.
Our next stop was for lunch – a quick falafel in a mall food court – before continuing to Haifa and a tour of a mixed Jewish/Arab neighborhood. Then it was up to the famous Bahai Temple in Haifa where participants had a unique option – rather than just look at the shrine and view we were offered the chance to hike down the 700 steps of the Bahai Gardens. What a hike is was! The view was stunning and surprisingly 700 steps goes by pretty quickly.
It was about a two hour drive to our hotel in Tzfat where we settled in and had dinner. Although we arrived after dark it is clear that the Rimmonim Hotel sports some beautiful views and we look forward to gathering for an early morning davening to appreciate our surroundings. We can already feel the special ruach kedosha (spiritual energy) that we will experience with tomorrow's sunrise.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
The Real Israel
What a wonderful day! We began with a moving trip to the Hall of Independence where the David Ben Gurion declared Israel a state almost exactly sixty years ago. The presentation was moving and eyes watered when we heard the passion of the museum guide who helped personalize what Israel meant to her and what it means to the world and the Jewish people. Although the Hall of Independance is a simple place its meaning is rich and moving.
Driving a short distance we arrived at Kikar Rabin - the sight of Rabin's murder. Aryeh our guide gave us a moving presention and review of the events leading up to that awful day. Curiously just after Aryeh told us of the sad announcement of Rabin's death on Irsraeli TV, the official who made this announcement walked by on the street. What a strange coincidence!
From there we traveled south a bit to Tzrifrin Army Base. Our own shlicha, Einat Dahari had recommended that this would be a good visit and indeed all agreed that this will be one of our most chrerished memories. After a surprisingly delicious lunch in the base dining hall, six experienced army officers came to talk and share and visit with us for more than an hour. These inspiring and mostly young people told us about their impressions of life in the Israeli army and they spoke with pride about their assignments and duties. Clearly this is an army of unusual depth and pride and it was an honor to be among them even for a short while. Our group asked many questions and following the meeting we were treated to a tour of the base - including the Shoah (Holocaust) Memorial set up in the middle of the base. Thank you Einat for helping us to arrange such a wonderful time.
Although we were scheduled to proceed to Jaffa for some shopping and touring, our guide (Aryeh) offered us an opportunity to go to the Tel Aviv port where a fair had been set up for the merchants of Sderot. Sederot is a small town adjacent to the Gaza strip that has been the recipient of over 3000 rocket attacks since the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Imagine how the merchants businesses' must have been devasted! We voted and the group decided that they would rather skip the tour of Jaffa and instead drive to the fair to show support for these brave men and women who lived in this battle torn area. Many products were purchased and we pray our purchases will, in some small way, demonstrate our outreached arm to those who live in harm's way.
Lastly the group proceeded to a wonderful dinner at Maganda Resturant. On behalf of the group we're pleased to recommend this resturant for your dining pleasure during your next visit to Tel Aviv. Salads, wine, shish-kabob, desserts, coffee and tea were enjoyed by all. We were so happy to be joined by our dear friends and B'nai Israel members Amos and Yardena Kedar who have recently moved back to Israel from Gainesville. With hugs and joyous welcome we enjoyed being with Amos and Yardena and we hope we will see more of them while we are here in Israel.
Tomorrow we leave Tel Aviv to head north. In some ways we are sad to leave this full and wonderful city and the luxury of the Renaissance Hotel. Indeed, we leave at 7 am so we are also sad to have to wake up so early! Nevertheless much adventure awaits us and we're ready to go!
Thank you all for your kind notes and comments...the group listens eagerly to hear your fond wishes!
Driving a short distance we arrived at Kikar Rabin - the sight of Rabin's murder. Aryeh our guide gave us a moving presention and review of the events leading up to that awful day. Curiously just after Aryeh told us of the sad announcement of Rabin's death on Irsraeli TV, the official who made this announcement walked by on the street. What a strange coincidence!
From there we traveled south a bit to Tzrifrin Army Base. Our own shlicha, Einat Dahari had recommended that this would be a good visit and indeed all agreed that this will be one of our most chrerished memories. After a surprisingly delicious lunch in the base dining hall, six experienced army officers came to talk and share and visit with us for more than an hour. These inspiring and mostly young people told us about their impressions of life in the Israeli army and they spoke with pride about their assignments and duties. Clearly this is an army of unusual depth and pride and it was an honor to be among them even for a short while. Our group asked many questions and following the meeting we were treated to a tour of the base - including the Shoah (Holocaust) Memorial set up in the middle of the base. Thank you Einat for helping us to arrange such a wonderful time.
Although we were scheduled to proceed to Jaffa for some shopping and touring, our guide (Aryeh) offered us an opportunity to go to the Tel Aviv port where a fair had been set up for the merchants of Sderot. Sederot is a small town adjacent to the Gaza strip that has been the recipient of over 3000 rocket attacks since the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Imagine how the merchants businesses' must have been devasted! We voted and the group decided that they would rather skip the tour of Jaffa and instead drive to the fair to show support for these brave men and women who lived in this battle torn area. Many products were purchased and we pray our purchases will, in some small way, demonstrate our outreached arm to those who live in harm's way.
Lastly the group proceeded to a wonderful dinner at Maganda Resturant. On behalf of the group we're pleased to recommend this resturant for your dining pleasure during your next visit to Tel Aviv. Salads, wine, shish-kabob, desserts, coffee and tea were enjoyed by all. We were so happy to be joined by our dear friends and B'nai Israel members Amos and Yardena Kedar who have recently moved back to Israel from Gainesville. With hugs and joyous welcome we enjoyed being with Amos and Yardena and we hope we will see more of them while we are here in Israel.
Tomorrow we leave Tel Aviv to head north. In some ways we are sad to leave this full and wonderful city and the luxury of the Renaissance Hotel. Indeed, we leave at 7 am so we are also sad to have to wake up so early! Nevertheless much adventure awaits us and we're ready to go!
Thank you all for your kind notes and comments...the group listens eagerly to hear your fond wishes!
Saturday, March 8, 2008
"The Best Shabbat Ever!!"
Yes, that was a quote I overheard from one of our group today! And indeed...it was a very special shabbat. We began with a wonderful Kabbalat Shabbat on Friday night as we sat in a circle watching the sun set over the Meditteranean Sea through large picture glass windows that surrounded our meeting room area. Sweet chanting...some sharing of prayerful thoughts...and a moment for reflection helped us to usher in Shabbat. A scrumptious buffet meal was shared as we welcomed a special visitor to our group: Avital Velt, our former shlicha surprised us and joined us for dinner. What a wondeful way to be welcomed into Israel! Avital, wewere so happy to see you!
After a well deserved sleep (most of us had been awake for more than 24 hours) the morning was greeted with beautiful views of the beach as we enjoyed a leisurely shabbat breakfast. Following breakfast the group split...some going to Shabbat services at a nearby Masorti (Conservative) synagogue, others to the beach and yet others for a walking tour of a historic neighborhood nearby. In the afternoon some rested and many enjoyed company of friends or family who came to visit at the hotel.
As the sun began to lower in the sky we gathered together for a sweet Seudah Shlishit and Havdalah. We enjoyed two WONDERFUL speakers who came to join us...one who had actually been to Gainesville (she spoke about her experiences as an American living through Israel's War of Independance) and one speaker who summarized the entire current world political situation with regard to the middle east and Israel.
The evening was free...and many wandered to nearby resturants and clubs for local flavor!
Tomorrow we wake early and are off for a full day of activities. Of course I could not take pictures today because of Shabbat (the photo above -- of a dog in a motorcycle sidecar on the street in Tel Aviv-- was taken yesterday). By the way, we're amazed at the number of views for our little blog! The group has been heartened by your comments and I will continue to pass along any comments you offer to our posts. L'hitraot!
After a well deserved sleep (most of us had been awake for more than 24 hours) the morning was greeted with beautiful views of the beach as we enjoyed a leisurely shabbat breakfast. Following breakfast the group split...some going to Shabbat services at a nearby Masorti (Conservative) synagogue, others to the beach and yet others for a walking tour of a historic neighborhood nearby. In the afternoon some rested and many enjoyed company of friends or family who came to visit at the hotel.
As the sun began to lower in the sky we gathered together for a sweet Seudah Shlishit and Havdalah. We enjoyed two WONDERFUL speakers who came to join us...one who had actually been to Gainesville (she spoke about her experiences as an American living through Israel's War of Independance) and one speaker who summarized the entire current world political situation with regard to the middle east and Israel.
The evening was free...and many wandered to nearby resturants and clubs for local flavor!
Tomorrow we wake early and are off for a full day of activities. Of course I could not take pictures today because of Shabbat (the photo above -- of a dog in a motorcycle sidecar on the street in Tel Aviv-- was taken yesterday). By the way, we're amazed at the number of views for our little blog! The group has been heartened by your comments and I will continue to pass along any comments you offer to our posts. L'hitraot!
Friday, March 7, 2008
Shabbat Shalom
We're preparing now for shabbat so there will be no posts for the next 24 hours. We've planned a fairly easy day tonight and tomorrow: Kabbalat Shabbat will be held on the beach and dinner and short orientation tonight. Tomorrow participants have a choice of attending services at a conservative shul nearby or taking a walking tour of Jerusalem. Tomorrow afternoon we have Seudah Shelishit with a speaker and then of on our own for dinner! We need a relaxing day!
Here we are! Eretz Yisrael Safe and Sound
With a blessing of thanksgiving we're safe and have enjoyed the beginnings of a wonderful day here in Tel Aviv. The plane ride was...well, long. And while a few slept most were very excited and just didn't manage to get sleep on the plane. The ride was smooth and the weather perfect so the ride was very nice although like all flights to Israel very full.
Upon arriving in Israel we were met immediatly by Yoel from The Israel Experience director and taken out to where Taal and our tour guide, Aryeh were waiting. A few pics are posted below. Please note that we have MANY MANY more pics but we won't post them all during the trip----we want to save something to show you when we get home! Of course we did get a complete secuity briefing on recent situations here in Israel...we are confident that we will be safe. Stay tuned!
Thursday, March 6, 2008
We're in Orlando...Ready to Go!
We've made it to Orlando in style! At 5:30 am a strech limo and van (piloted by yours truly) arrived at the shul and picked up those who had not already made their way to Orlando. Now we're ready to board the flight and make our way to Newark NJ and the on to Tel Aviv.
Take a look at the impromtu mah jongg game set up here on the floor of Orlando airport:
(photo coming soon)
Take a look at the impromtu mah jongg game set up here on the floor of Orlando airport:
(photo coming soon)
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Masorti (Conservative) Movement in Israel
While not exactly related to our trip I thought you might be interested in this movie about the Conservative Movement in Israel (known in Israel as "Masorti"). We will be visiting some Masorti congregations during our tour.
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