|
Shalom Parents,
Though this week was brief, it was full of meaning. On Sunday, our TK, Kinder, and 1st-grade classes continued their delightful journey through the stories of the Beresheet/Genesis Parashot. Their enthusiasm shines brightly as they craft projects related to the tales.
Our 2nd graders are enthusiastically diving into the Alef Bet. They had a delightful time spelling out Shabbat (ש.ב.ת) using pretzel sticks and accenting with small chocolate kisses as vowels. They had fun writing and eating the letters!
In 7th grade, Hili, our Shinshinit, created a program commemorating Yitzhak Rabin z”l, the late prime minister of Israel. This year marks the 28th anniversary of his assassination in Tel Aviv. I recounted to our students how, as a teen in Israel, the entire nation grieved his loss, feeling as if our peaceful future was snatched away from us. This sentiment mirrors the emotions stirred by the events of October 7th. Yet, as history has shown, Am Yisrael bonds together during challenging times. The unity after Rabin's passing is mirrored today as Jews worldwide rally behind Israel, support its defense forces and its soldiers, and pray for families whose loved ones are kidnapped or missing. But remember, "Am Yisrael Chai" – we will persevere and see the Negev and North bloom once more.
During our staff meeting yesterday, we delved into "The Israeli Volunteering Spirit" (רוּחַ הַהִתְנַדְּבוּת הַיִּשְׂרְאֵלִית). We were honored to hear from Israel's chief volunteer, Judith Asraf. Her philanthropic initiatives and past work have helped her transform two youth hostels in Netanya and Tel Aviv into havens for evacuees from the south. Countless volunteers rally around her efforts, cooking meals, arranging activities for children, doing laundry, and providing clothes and toys, to name a few. Judith expressed how incredible it is to witness the influx of both donations and volunteers eager to help. Her message resonates deeply: "V'Ahavta L'reacha Kamocha" (אָהַבְתָּ לְרֵעֲךָ כָּמוֹךָ) – it's with inner love and kindness that we spread light and make the world a better place. When we asked how we could assist, she simply said: "Pray for us and for the soldiers." Listening to her at 2 a.m. Israel's time was an experience we cherish, and we appreciate her willingness to stay up so late to talk to us and share her experience with us.
Judith has shared the names of injured Israeli soldiers, requesting our prayers. As you light the Shabbat candles tonight, please keep them in your thoughts.
Pray for full and complete health in the sake of their love of Israel, for good life, and for peace. Amen.
|
