The note below from Anat Hoffman, Executive Director of the Israel Religious Action Centre, reports on progress in efforts by the Reform movement in Israel to expand the worship opportunities for women at the Kotel.
First Bat Mitzvah at the Kotel in 2013?
After years of hard work we are finally seeing real movement on equality at the Kotel. If you haven't seen the article in the New York Times, click here to read "Israel to Review Curbs on Women's Prayer at Western Wall".
This comes in the wake of another NYT article describing widespread protests from the Reform and Conservative movements against aggressive enforcement of restrictions at the Wall. Now PM Netanyahu has asked Natan Sharansky, Chairman of the Jewish Agency "to study the issue and suggest ways to make the site more accommodating to all Jews."
This is very good news. Now it's up to us to let the Jewish Agency know that we are looking to them to recommend far-reaching changes. Please write to the Jewish Agencyusing this link and tell Chairman Natan Sharansky that we support him in this initiative and want him to represent our voice.
This is a tremendous opportunity. We are on the precipice of real change. I believe 2013 could finally be the year of the first Bat Mitzvah at the Western Wall. Thank you as always for your help.
L'shalom, Anat Hoffman Executive Director, IRAC
For our members in Vancouver- Israel's election
Learn about the upcoming Israeli elections on Sun. Jan. 6 at 6:45 PM:
Israel Decides: 2013 - in Toronto
Israeli Consul General DJ Schneeweiss
Everything you wanted to know about the upcoming election in Israel
Israelis head to the polls to elect their next government on January 22. Join us for an outline of Israel's democratic system and a look at the latest polls.
Tuesday January 15 at 7:30 PM
Temple Sinai, 210 Wilson Ave
Our guest speaker will be the Consul General of Israel, DJ Schneeweiss. The Consul General is an experienced diplomat and understands the Israeli government and the political system.
Bring your questions and your opinions!!!
Sponsored by ARZA Canada and Temple Sinai.
Can the Chief Rabbinate change?
Israel's Chief Rabbinate has developed a reputation as a representative of only ultra-Orthodox Jews. This artlicle describes the beginning of a movement in Israel to draw the next Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi from a more modern, nationalist Orthodox movement.
A Word of Hebrew
Here's a phrase that may be useful when reviewing the past year:
Last but not least - Acharon chaviv - אחרון חביב
On behalf of ARZA Canada, I wish you and your family a Happy New Year and a healthy and prosperous 2013.
L'Shalom,
Les Rothschild President, ARZA Canada The Zionist Voice of Reform Judaism in Canada
Ride 4
Reform
Ride 4 Reform, a five-day cycling tour in Israel, raises funds for Israel's Reform movement.
This year's ride is Mar. 10-14. Click here for more info.
