Blog

Throughout these past two months since the terrorist attacks of October 7, we have endeavored to infuse a sense of Israeli spirit, pride, and staunch support into every realm of Sinai life. Informative conversations and classes, speakers, dignitaries, and presentations, solidarity services, special prayers for this difficult time in Jewish life, tzedakah collections, podcasts, articles, rabbinic columns, sermons, outreach to our students, and more. Now, I am pleased to bring a bit of Sinai to Israel, as I will be traveling to Israel next Sunday, December 17th, as part of a one-week rabbinic solidarity mission.

Along with 20 rabbinic colleagues from across the country, our intended itinerary while in Israeli includes:

• Volunteering
• Site visits to kibbutzim and hospitals
• Condolence visits with bereaved families
• Meetings with displaced Israelis and families of hostages
• Heartfelt sharing of strength with our Israeli friends, family, and colleagues.

I look forward to sharing experiences from the journey upon my return.

Additionally, as part of our solidarity mission, we are each collecting items to help support displaced Israeli families who were forced to flee their homes with virtually nothing. In particular, I am collecting children’s sizes, new winter gloves, hats, and socks to bring and deliver during trip. If you would like to contribute, please use this AMAZON WISH LIST.  Important Note: Purchased items must arrive either at Sinai or my home by next Friday, December 15, to ensure they are packed.

Alternatively, if you would like to make a small financial contribution in support of this solidarity mission, please make a donation to my discretionary fund and designate “Rabbi Solidarity Mission." With these resources, I will send a contribution on behalf of Temple Sinai to Achim LaNeshek (Brothers in Arms) who, since October 7, have been providing support to security forces and aid to tens of thousands of people from Israel’s southern region.

On this first night of Chanukah and during the days that follow, may we help to shine much-needed light with Israel and throughout our Jewish community and world.  Wishing you and yours a happy, meaningful, and light-filled Chanukah.

** Bring your Chanukah Menorah to Shabbat services tomorrow night and help fill our sanctuary with the lights of the 2nd night!

     Purchase Items from the Amazon Wish List      Donate to Rabbi Segal's Discretionary Fund