10/07/2023
I’m reaching out to you due to an unexpected, urgent challenge that threatens what we have attained. The land on which our synagogue was erected has shifted, causing structural damage to our facility. Our building is modest, and when we sponsor larger programs and need space, we use our wrap-around deck. The deck is now unstable and requires extensive repairs.
Unfortunately, this is not the only threat to our future. In the last two weeks we had multiple incidents of people voicing disdain for Reform Judaism by harassing and cursing people at our congregation. We have requested assistance from the police, the Mayor of the Gezer Regional Council, and the Israel Movement for Reform Judaism. All are helping to ensure this does not escalate beyond threats and verbal attacks.
We are embarking on an emergency campaign to secure our future in multiple ways. We must fix our deck with enhancements to allow for our growth. And, in light of the current situation, we must to upgrade our alarm system and install security cameras inside and out. The overall cost is nearly $100,000.
We have already secured over $30,000 toward the campaign. Won’t you consider a gift of Chai, $180, $360, $1800 - or any amount - to secure our future – literally and figuratively?
Past support from our donors enabled the exciting growth we are experiencing. We are particularly successful in our educational work with local schools and hundreds of families by providing Jewish enrichment that is pluralistic and egalitarian. Our Bnai Mitzvah program now includes 70+ ceremonies a year for local families who choose to celebrate in a Reform, pluralistic, egalitarian environment.
Many overseas congregations have recently visited: Rabbi Bradd Boxman and Congregation Kol Tikvah, FL; Rabbi Asher Knight and Temple Beth El, NC; and Rabbi Barry Diamond and Temple Adat Elohim, CA.
Rabbi Knight shared that their visit “helped us to gain insights into the world of Progressive Judaism in Israel and better understand the unique challenges and opportunities . . . This experience highlighted a fundamental truth . . . Progressive Jews are trailblazing and teaching that there is more than one way to be Jewish. . . May the memories of this remarkable Shabbat at Birkat Shalom continue to inspire us. . .”
Reform Judaism in Israel will only thrive with a strong foundation supporting it. Thank you for enabling our success and for considering a donation to our emergency campaign to secure our future.
