When we go to Israel...

I just returned from the JEA (Jewish Educators Assembly) annual conference. No, it wasn't in Israel (I wish it had been), it was in Maryland however, the topic of the conference was the study of Israel. How do we address Israel in synagogue education. One thing all educators agree on is the importance of teaching about Israel, a real Israel not a mythic land of milk and honey. And I think we at B'nai Amoona do a good job. Israel is found throughout our educational curriculum. Israel education is in the ECC, Ramot Amoona and our youth groups. B'nai Amoona supports Israel in big and small ways. On February 14th we will be showing our love for Israel through an Israel Shabbat.

I want to share a very simple idea with you. In the future, when you are speaking with your children about Israel, instead of saying “if” we go to Israel, change that to “when” we go to Israel. When could be in two years, ten years or some indeterminate time in the future but it makes the statement that Israel is a place you have already decided is worth visiting. “If” implies: if we get around to it; if it is convenient; if we want to. Whereas “When” states when we can go we will. This allows your children to grow up thinking about when they go to Israel and not wonder if they should go to Israel.

Photo was taken in 2009 when I visited Israel as part of the Leadership Institute for Congregational School Educators. I can't wait to get back there.