Stronger Together

In my reflections of my last visit to Israel, I shared a few thoughts that were spurred on by a conversation at the Fuchsberg Jerusalem Center. There, we had spoken with Dr. Stephen Daniel and Rabbi Joshua Kolp, who encouraged us to look for opportunities that may arise from out of this tragedy.  They emphasized that Am Yisrael, the Jewish people, must come together from all parts of the Jewish community, in Israel and abroad, and work together.  They talked about a creative way they came to share healing opportunities with a larger, more diverse community.  After October 7th they created song circles.  People sit on the floor, play musical instruments, and sing niggunim and psalms together.  You can get a glimpse of what that looks like here. 

These gatherings were very therapeutic and drew in large crowds every time they met.  Not just their own students, but members of the wider community.  An example of this was that several young men from a highly observant yeshiva began attending these sessions.  They were surprised, but welcomed them with open arms.  After a few sessions, the rabbi from the yeshiva showed up.  He explained that because the sessions were attracting his students, he needed to see what it was all about.  It was inspiring to hear about how these Jews of different observance and background found healing together through music.   

Dr. Daniel and Rabbi Kolp expressed their view that Judaism is made up of micro-communities – our denominations, our synagogues, our study groups.  But, they suggested, we have the chance right now to connect our micro-communities, to bridge our differences and feel the power of being part of Am Yisrael.  As I mentioned before, I really took those words to heart and have felt more connected with other local Jewish groups and Jewish individuals.   

I began feeling this connection soon after the war began, when Jeff Blumer, the JCRC Director at the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton, started to reach out about the March for Israel in Washington, D.C.  It was invigorating to collaborate with members from other congregations and to travel with the Cincinnati delegation.  It’s powerful to be surrounded by a diverse Jewish community, speaking out about our shared values.  How much stronger we are together when we focus on the needs of the Jewish people, even when recognizing the distinct identities of our micro-communities.   I felt this again on February 16, when the Federation brought people together for a morning of community advocacy.  I had the opportunity that morning to gather with Amy Bloom, Marci Vandersluis, and Devorah Mangel, who had also been on missions to Israel after October 7.   

As we talked, even as we shared stories that were created from loss, I was filled with joy.  Each of these travelers shared meaningful insights that stirred my soul.  I loved learning from our diverse experiences and perspectives.  I hope that you will consider joining me for Reflections on Israel, a special program hosted by the Jewish Federation on Wednesday, March 20, at 6 PM, as I gather again with my fellow travelers to speak on a panel about our trips.  Each of us has a unique viewpoint and I believe we can learn much from one another.  Registration is required, click here to RSVP. 

There is a strong sense of community right now as we work to strengthen one another.  I am grateful to be a part of it.  May we continue to nurture these sacred relationships well beyond this war. We are stronger together.