Israeli Chronicles — Connecting Israel & Cincinnati
What Zionism Means to Us
My role, as a shlicha, or community emissary, allows me to step out of my comfort zone in Israel, and to learn more about the Jewish people living here, in North America. I have the responsibility and the privilege to be a part of our joint effort of creating bridges between the two parts of the Jewish people. I feel truly blessed.
This month I had the unique opportunity to host and facilitate a one-of-a-kind rabbi panel discussion, called “What Zionism Means to Me.”
The panel, which included five of our local congregational rabbis (Rabbi Kamrass of Wise Temple, Rabbi Wise of Adath Israel Congregation, Rabbi Terlinchamp of Temple Sholom, Rabbi Goldschmiedt of Congregation Sha’arei Torah, and Rabbi Barr of Congregation Beth Adam) explored the term “Zionism” to better understand its relevance and meaning to us now—in Cincinnati in 2016.
The panel showcased different perspectives: from Humanistic, Reform, and Conservative to Modern Orthodox. Perspectives that were personal, in a way, but represented different ways of connecting, understanding, and relating to Israel.
The rabbis spoke in an honest, courageous, and loving way. Talking about the challenges Israel is facing, talking about America’s changing relationship with Israel throughout the years. Sharing their concerns, hopes, and dreams for the state of Israel. You can watch the discussion by clicking here, and see photos from the event here.
Although I’d spent hours preparing to moderate this panel discussion, the atmosphere and conversation caught me almost by surprise. Experiencing the pluralism, tolerance, and commitment to Israel and to Zionism was a moving moment of partnership and peoplehood.
I want to end with a few words I said during the panel:
I believe Israel is and can be the beginning of the flowering of our redemption. I believe the creation of the state of Israel was, and still is, the greatest Jewish project we as a people took upon us.
I believe it is our mission, or shlichut, as Jews, to make sure it lives up to the high standards we have for such a great project.
I believe that creating and strengthening a just society—an exemplary society—is the Zionist mission we are facing today together, as Jews living on both side of the sea.
