‘ISRAEL COUNTS’: LIBERAL EDUCATION PROGRAMME LAUNCHED

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An education programme commissioned by Liberal Judaism from the Lokey International Academy of Jewish Studies of the Leo Baeck Education Centre in Haifa was launched at the LJS last Sunday.

Harriet Karsh, Interim Operations Executive of Liberal Judaism, opened proceedings by reaffirming Liberal Judaism’s ongoing commitment to Israel. She quoted from the affirmations of Liberal Judaism, “We affirm our commitment to the State of Israel, […] and the fulfilment of the high ideals set out in its Proclamation of Independence.”

She pointed out that the introduction of this new curriculum “leaves no doubt that ‘Israel Counts’ for Liberal Judaism.”

Michael Wegier, Executive Director for Jewish Renewal of the UJIA, Liberal Judaism’s new partner, attended the launch along with Liberal Jewish educators from all over the country. Dan Shaham, Director of Public Affairs at the Israeli embassy in London, also at the launch, praised Liberal Judaism for its continuing and growing contribution to Israel saying that “‘Israel Counts’ is a testament to that commitment.”

Gal Alon, IDF correspondent in London, gave a stirring presentation entitled ’Inside Israel: 56 years since the proclamation of independence’ to contextualise the programme, which was followed by various sessions on methodology as well as the presentation of the kits by Aviva Goldbert, the primary author of the materials.

Eran Shafir, Liberal Judaism’s emissary from Israel and the prime mover behind ‘Israel Counts’ is delighted with the programme and its reception.
“Israel Counts is an education programme which focuses on community. It is a seven week programme which will reinforce our communities’ understanding and ties with the land and the people of Israel. By basing each session on a different species of fruit grown in Israel, every generation can connect with Israel. That is the beauty behind ‘Israel Counts’, it can be used from the age of three, to a hundred and twenty three. Liberal Judaism is very proud of this programme and we hope that it will continue to engage the Liberal community for a long time.”