Israel

A photo of two men and a woman looking down at a Torah scroll

From Simchat Torah to Sichat Torah

D'Var Torah By: Rabbi Yael Vurgan

September 30, 2024

There is no need to explain why there will be no joy on Simchat Torah this year in the western Negev. The looming first anniversary of the massacre is causing anger, frustration, and despair to flood back. As long as hostages are still held in Gaza, residents of the region are still stuck on October 7.

Photo of two hands holding a memorial candle, with white label and a blue star of david on it

Israel Peace and Security

Resources for Marking the Anniversary of October 7th

September 27, 2024

These materials include readings, interviews, and more that reflect on the year that has passed since the October 7th attacks.

Israel

Hope and Pride in Be’er Sheva

Rabbi Dara Lithwick

August 21, 2024

During Pride Month, I participated in a leaders' trip to Israel through A Wider Bridge, an organization dedicated to connecting LGBTQ+ people in North America and Israel. Around Israel, pride events this year focused on calls to free the hostages, support the hundreds of thousands of displaced people, and reach a meaningful ceasefire.

Statement from the Union for Reform Judaism

Israel

Over 1,400 North American Jews Sign Petition Urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to Move Forward with a Negotiated Ceasefire and Hostage Deal

Contact: Laura Frank, lfrank@urj.org, 267-234-1497

August 20, 2024

Over 1,400 Jews from the United States and Canada signed a petition from the Union for Reform Judaism urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to heed the voices of the hostages' families and negotiate for a new ceasefire and hostage deal during the latest round of negotiations in Qatar.

URJ 6 Points Sports Academy

Impacting Camp, Connecting with Israel After October 7th

Crystal Hill

August 8, 2024

Every year, URJ Camps host Israeli counselors as a way to strengthen our young people’s connection to the land and culture of Israel. This summer, this initiative took on even more meaning in the wake of the October 7th attacks.