Israel

Israel Awareness programming educates the Beth Am Community about the crucial role played by the State of Israel, as a spiritual center, an American ally, and as a refuge for Jews subject to persecution. Our Israel-oriented programs offer an open, respectful and safe environment for all members to learn and share ideas, focusing on support for Israel that transcends political differences. We offer regular opportunities for congregants to hear from expert speakers, learn about the land and people of Israel, and enjoy Israeli culture. Support the Israel Awareness Fund.

The mission of Beth Am's Jewish and Israel Advocacy Committee is to unify and mobilize support at Congregation Beth Am for the security of the State of Israel, to counter the alarming growth of antisemitism, and to promote respect for Jews in the United States and beyond. We also work to refute both misunderstandings by the media and deliberate misinformation by the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement. To achieve our objectives, we educate congregants through emails and inspirational speakers, as well as provide timely alerts to take action as events warrant. Support the Jewish and Israel Advocacy Committee Fund. Please sign up to join the Jewish and Israel Advocacy Committee email list.

Oneg Israel: A few times each year, following our Erev Shabbat service, the Oneg Israel team hosts programs with a focus on Israeli culture. These events often feature distinguished Israeli authors, artists, filmmakers and historians, as well as an engaging discussion on the many dimensions of Israel. Programs take place both virtually and in person. In-person events are followed by a delicious, home style Shabbat dinner and an opportunity for the community to gather and learn more about Israel. Please consider supporting Oneg Israel programs with a donation to the Israel Awareness Fund.

Israeli Films: On Shabbat afternoons, Beth Am’s monthly Jewish film series often features contemporary Israeli films that offer fascinating perspectives on life in the Jewish State. All are free and followed by discussion. Refreshments are served.

Supporting Our Israeli Reform Synagogue Partnership: Congregation Beth Am has partnered with Kehilat Mevasseret Zion (KMZ), one of over 50 congregations of the Israel Movement for Reform & Progressive Judaism (IMPJ). This vibrant community, located outside of Jerusalem, brings to the Israeli experience spiritual wealth and pluralistic and equitable Judaism, combining tradition and modernity. Progressive streams of Judaism have struggled to achieve acceptance and funding on par with Orthodox institutions in Israel, and have relied on support from American advocates and partners. If you would like to support our friends at KMZ, we invite you to consider making a donation or becoming an overseas member. Thank you!

Tzedakah: Every other month, our Tzedakah Box donations go to an Israeli charity, usually focused on addressing issues of poverty. If you have a suggestion for a worthy organization, please contact Rabbi Prosnit.