Dear Friends:
I’m writing you with an exciting opportunity to connect with Israel while supporting our pluralistic values. As we all know and as I have discussed in emails, classes, and sermons, these are difficult times for Israel. As we celebrate 75 years of independence, we worry about proposals put forth by the current government and fear for the future of a society divided against itself. We yearn for a pluralistic Israel where religious streams are free to worship in their preferred manner and diverse political views are respected and valued.
In service of this dream, our Jewish Federation of Greater Washington is launching an Investing in a Homeland for All Jews Campaign. They have committed $150,000 to be divided among several organizations committed to religious pluralism in Israel, including our Masorti movement.
Individual contributions will be matched, with the total money distributed based on the movement affiliation of the donor. Money raised from Conservative congregations will be sent to the Masorti movement; money raised from Orthodox and Reform congregations will be sent to Reform and Orthodox organizations that support religious pluralism.
You can support this fundraiser by clicking on this unique link for Kehilat Shalom. All money collected through this link, PLUS an additional match up to $500 per individual donation, will go directly to the Masorti Foundation. $50,000 raised by Conservative congregations will mean $100,000 for the Masorti movement; greater participation will mean even more money. Imagine the impact you can make through this community match.
I urge you to give generously. You can learn more about this effort by clicking here. Let us do our part in the ongoing work of building, sustaining, and improving our Jewish homeland.
As a reminder, I am having drop-in hours on Thursday afternoons from 2 to 4 at the shul. You do not need to make an appointment -- that would negate the whole point of drop-in hours -- but I’d urge you to check and make sure I am there regardless as sometimes there are unavoidable pastoral or other emergencies which might take me away from the building.
As always, if I can do anything for you or you need to talk, please contact me at rabbi@kehilatshalom.org or 301-977-0768 rather than through the synagogue office. I am happy to meet you at the synagogue by appointment. I have been spending more time in the synagogue recently but if you want to speak with me it’s best to make an appointment rather than assuming I will be there when you stop by.
L’shalom,
Rabbi Charles L. Arian
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