Dear Friends,
Friday is Yom HaAtzmauut (Israeli Independence Day) and in the spirit of solidarity with Jews all over the world, we honor and celebrate the centrality of the Jewish State in the life-blood of Jewish history, heritage, culture and spiritual sustenance. As a modern political entity, Israel is only 71 years old, but in this short period of time, Israel has become one of the most successful centers for technology, industry, medicine, agriculture and science in the entire world. It is also the only democracy and one of the only dependable allies of the US in the entire Middle East.
Indeed, we can take great pride in the fact that Israel has established herself as one of the most democratic, forward thinking nations in the world, and it is my prayer that our relationship with the land and the people of Israel will continue to grow stronger through the years. If you are interested in celebrating Israel’s 71st birthday with the community, here are two special programs to consider:
HCRJ Shabbat Service and Yom HaAtzmaut Celebration
Friday, May 10, 7:15pm, at Houston Congregation for Reform Judaism
Join us for a special Shabbat Service featuring music and meditations honoring the 71st anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel. Students from our religious school have crafted poetry in prayers for this joyous Shabbat experience.
Houston Celebrates Israel
Thursday, May 9, 4:30-7:00pm, at the JCC 5601 S. Braeswood Boulevard
Come and celebrate 71 years of Israel. The Houston community-wide celebration will feature an Israeli-style torch lighting ceremony and a Eurovision-inspired concert with local musicians (including the HCRJ Trio: Rabbi Gross, Mike Kahn and Mike Mason).
Happy Yom HaAtzmauut!
Steve