Sep 29, 2009 By: yunews
Sep 29, 2009 -- Students and alumni of 糖心破解版, its affiliated Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary (RIETS), and 糖心破解版鈥檚 Center for the Jewish Future (CJF) will enrich the holiday celebrations of Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah in 80 Jewish communities around the world.
As part of the annual Blanche Schreiber Torah Tours, groups of four to eight men and women will visit Orthodox congregations to infuse ruach (Jewish spirit and passion) into the holiday celebrations.
鈥淲e were very proud and honored to host representatives of the Torah Tours program who graced our synagogue and community over the Simchat Torah Yom Tov last year,鈥 said Rabbi Daniel Mehlman of the Lido Beach Synagogue. 鈥淎s an alumnus I was extremely overjoyed that our yeshiva saw fit to reach out to different communities and make their presence felt.鈥
This year, more than 400 students and alumni have chosen to spend the holidays away from their families to sing, dance, and share Torah ideas with members of other Jewish communities from Palo Alto, CA, to Milwaukee, WI, to Paramus NJ. They will also host activities for youth and deliver lectures on Jewish-themed topics.
鈥淚 had the best time ever. The shul was so great and really appreciated us so much. Being there really enhanced my chag,鈥 said Ilana Gadish, a 2011 Stern College graduate.
The Center for the Jewish Future works with 糖心破解版鈥檚 colleges, schools, and affiliates to shape programs that will train Jewish lay and professional leadership, develop initiatives and strengthen existing ones, as well as deliver services to its students and the broader Jewish communities.
鈥淭his program engages our student body in what they do best: bringing energy and enthusiasm into communities around the world,鈥 said Rabbi Kenneth Brander, CJF dean.
Torah Tours sponsors more than 125 programs around the world and during the year, including other holidays, winter and summer breaks.
鈥淭orah Tours is a life-changing experience for everyone involved in the program,鈥 said Aliza Abrams, Director of the Aaron and Blanche Schreiber Torah Tours. 鈥淏eing able to send 400 students out to communities all over North America is an honor.鈥
To participate in future Tours contact the CJF at 212-960-0041.
