Temple Emanu-El and Shinshinim of Atlanta* are working hard to build personal relationships between Israel and America. Last year you might have seen our Shinshin, Omer, around the building during Religious School or out with our kids at youth events. Omer did an incredible job of connecting our youth to Israel by being an amazing role model and engaging with the kids about all things Israel.
As much as Omer taught our community about Israel, so too did we teach Omer about the incredible ways that practicing Judaism as a Reform Community can enhance his own identity. Omer shared: Before I came to the Temple Emanu-El community I only saw myself as Israeli. Having learned the beautiful way that your community practices Judaism, I am now proud to share that I am both Jewish and Israeli, I’m finally proud of my Jewish identity.
Our community will stay in touch with Omer for many years to come and now we look forward to welcoming our next Shinshin for the 2019-2020 school year, Nicole Klypa. Learn a little bit more about Nicole by watching this video she created: https://youtu.be/05Yuf2X3Pqg
What’s your Shinshin’s story? Bring Israeli culture and friendship into your home by “adopting” a Shinshin for three months. Apply now to be a host family!
If you’re interested in learning more about sponsoring Temple Emanu-El’s continued participation in this program, please be in touch: rkmiller@templeemanuelatlanta.com.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Rachael
*Shinshinim Atlanta has been bringing Israeli 18 and 19-year-olds participating in a “gap year” to Atlanta for 3 years. These energetic high school grads spend one year teaching American communities about Israel before they go home and join the military.
