A recent survey conducted by the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs revealed most young Jews share four attitudes and desires.
1. Fighting anti-Semitism is the #1 Jewish priority
2. Israel must be recognized by all peoples/nations as the nation state of the Jewish people.
3. Jews must openly identify as Jews.
4. Zionism reflects the need for safe refuge for Jews.
While the survey presented the attitudes and ideals of younger Jews I think we can agree ALL Jews should hold them. Our children and adolescents should be exposed to these beliefs early and often; at the same time mature folks in our communities should be encouraged to share the value of life illuminated and guided by these ideals.
Another thing I hope we can agree on is the role Israel Bonds can play in introducing, sharing, and affirming these attitudes and ideals. Since the first Israel bonds were sold in 1951, they have stood for affirming the role of Israel in our lives, declaring the importance of openly identifying as a Jew, fighting anti-semitism, and insuring a safe refuge for our people. But, that’s not all.
Every Israel bond comes embedded with tradition, zionism, community, history and the extraordinary achievements of the dreamers, founders, and builders to create, sustain and nurture Eretz Yirael – our nation-state, our pride and our refuge.
INSERT A PERSONAL STORY OF YOUR CONNECTION TO ISRAEL HERE
Also, belonging in the same package with the attitudes of the survey and the ideals embedded in Israel Bonds is the phrase ledor vador. Though very often spoken in our community, ledor vador never gets old because it is not only an obligation, it is our fuel, our engine, and our joy.
To learn the results of a survey and prove our next generation of Jewish adults and leaders share many of the beliefs of the current and past generations that is ledor vador. And, to participate in this Israel Bonds appeal and pass along to the next and the next generation the Zionism, Jewish Heritage and support for Israel embedded in every Israel Bonds that too is ledor vador.
Please pick up your tab card and join me in folding down a tab; join the members of Cong/Temple ___________ in making this appeal a success; join sisters and brothers across the country making Israel and Israel Bonds a part of their New Years prayers, hopes and celebration.
L'Shana Tova everyone.
May all of us and all of Israel have a sweet, safe, and successful new year.
Please find the back of your tab card and join me in a brief prayer for Israel.