Our next blog entry was co-written by Pam Weil and Sary Regev. They are both serving on the BHC / HBC Jewish Education and Identity committee- Pam in Boston and Sary in Haifa. We were blessed to have them both with us as active Lay Leaders during our Mifgash. Their note brings us back to last week in Jerusalem- a very special time and place for our shared group experience.
Reminiscing about the Power of being TOGETHER.
BHC- ELEMENTARY EDUCATORS MIFGASH
Dear friends,
We are in the midst of an invigorating and inspiring mifgash of elementary school educators who are involved with partnerships supported by the Boston-Haifa Connection. Every day brings this group closer to a deeper understanding of our shared goals. Here are some impressions from two members of the Jewish Education and Identity Committee-one from Boston and one from Haifa-of our Shabbat experience in Jerusalem.
Both the well-planned formal program and the informal conversations that happened at meals, while walking to services, or during a walking tour of “My Jerusalem,” gave both groups of educators the opportunity to open their hearts and share their thoughts on education as well as politics and religion. Although these issues are complicated and charged with emotion, the discussions were respectful and brought us closer together.
Religious pluralism played an important role in our discussions. We realized how much our points of view can differ. Regardless of our differences, we found that we share a deep level of commitment to our partners and our partnerships.
Jerusalem offered new experiences to each one of us. Some were transformed by these experiences. It was truly a gift to be able to meet face to face, away from the burdens of everyday life and work. We came together in learning, in prayer, in song, and in dance. We appreciate all the attention to detail and thank everyone who participated and contributed to this well-organized and deeply satisfying weekend. We look forward to continuing to plan and dream together J
L’shalom,
Pam and Sary