IMPJ Says Thank You
August 13, 2008
Israel
(1 comments)
By dcc
Last week Iri Kassel, executive director of the Israel Movement for Progressive Judaism, sent the North American Reform Movement a thank you note for starting the Movement wide IMPJ Emergency Campaign. On behalf of the entire IMPJ he thanked us for coming through in the clutch to help save the Reform Movement in Israel.
In just the first few weeks of this project, we have raised $225,000 to support our growing Israeli Movement. The economic hardships of the IMPJ could not have come at a worse time, explains Kassel. As he mentions in his letter, we have a closing window of opportunity to increase the presence and strength of the Israeli Reform Movement, both socially and politically.
So on behalf of all of us here in North America you are welcome and thank you for your work to further the cause of Reform Judaism in the Jewish State. (Letter after the jump)
Dear Friends and Partners,
A few days ago we received a substantial sum of money that was raised through the initiative of the leadership of the Union, HUC, WUPJ, ARZA and ARZA - Canada.
In the name of the Israel Movement for Progressive Judaism (IMPJ) I thank you for this initiative. Your commitment to our Movement and your proven support of it are greatly appreciated.
Lately we have been witnessing the fruitful results of many years of hard work, as it is becoming clear that our contribution to Israeli society is substantial.
Today, of all times, when we have a window of opportunity--which will not stay open forever--we find ourselves in a situation in which we are prevented from meeting our challenges because of a severe lack of financial resources.
As a result of the devaluation of the US dollar we were forced to cut down our budget. Your kind donation will enable us to reduce the damage and to continue in our ongoing efforts to strengthen Reform Judaism in Israel through our synagogues, congregational activities, education, advocacy and tikkun olam.
The future of Progressive Judaism in Israel will have an effect on the entire Jewish world. We must do all it takes to continue our work and overcome the difficulties, and your involvement helps us to do this.
We appreciate your partnership and thank you for your care and efforts.
B'Vracha (with blessing),
Iri Kassel
Executive Director
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For those who may not have figured it out, clicking on "this project" at the start of the second paragraph of dcc's post will get you to the link on the URJ website that facilitates on-line contributions.
We have had a tendency when talking about the Progressive (i.e., Reform) movement in Israel to focus on the hole instead of on the donut. Iri refers to a window of opportunity -- as we look through that window, we should applaud the amazing progress IMPJ and its congregations have made in the last five years. The window of opportunity includes the need to shore up the wonderful work that has already been accomplished, and to go from strength to strength. So don't just applaud -- send money!