A letter from Rabbah Michal Schwartz, The Masorti Congregation of Petah Tikvah, Shomrei Emunah’s sister congregation in Israel. 

The Month of Iyyar

The month of Iyyar is a special month in the Hebrew calendar. Up to a few years ago it was a boring month, lacking holidays. But 68 years ago something changed. It is already 68 years that we celebrate Israel Independence Day in the month of Iyyar. Most Jewish holidays are thousands of years old; Israel Independence Day is a new, fresh holiday.

But as much as it is young, it is unique. In this young holiday is hidden an ancient mystery.

(more…)

A letter from Rabbah Michal Schwartz, The Masorti Congregation of Petah Tikvah, Shomrei Emunah’s sister congregation in Israel. 

First a few words about our congregation:

Ha-Kehillah ha-Masortit Petah Tikvah (The Masorti Congregation of Petah Tikvah) began functioning on Tu BiSh’vat 5762 – (January) 2011. We were a very small, but very eager group of men and women, headed by Mr. Yoel Bar Gil, the first Chairman of the congregation, and a Rabbah. The first year was extremely difficult. We met every Friday evening to greet the Shabbat and once a month for Shabbat morning prayers. Most of the time we did not have a minyan. Sometimes we were only 3 or 4 people.

I am full of admiration for the founding kehillah members who kept at it during that entire difficult year. Without their constancy and determination we would never have held on. These men and women are my heroes. They are my inspiration of perseverance and faith. (more…)

A note from Rabbi Greenstein:

I am delighted to introduce to our community a wonderful colleague who is doing great work in building a Masorti (Conservative) kehillah (community) in Israel, Rabbah Michal Schwartz.
First, some definitions:

“Masorti” – The Conservative movement in Israel is called the Masorti Movement. It strives to promote Judaism in a way that is traditional, egalitarian and inclusive. It has made great progress over the years. But Israel officially recognizes and financially supports only Orthodox Judaism. So Masorti communities have to try to accomplish all their good work despite lack of government support and even despite official opposition.

(more…)