Shabbat Message | March 7, 2025 | Jewish Federation of British Columbia

A group of four children and teenagers holding an Israeli flag, smiling at the camera, with a crowd in the background.

March 7, 2025 | 7 Adar 5785 | Candle lighting at 5:48 p.m.

This message has about 1,010 words and will take about 4 minutes to read.

This week, I had the privilege of joining several members of our Israel and Global Engagement Committee (IGEC), chaired by David Fox, in Israel for the Coast to Coast partnership meetings in the Etzba HaGalil, as well as the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) Board of Governors meetings, where I joined our JAFI Board of Governors representatives, Karen James and Candace Kwinter.

As we made our way up north, travelling alongside participants from across Canada, our Israeli partners, and board members from JFC-UIA, we engaged in honest and sometimes difficult conversations about the challenges ahead in rebuilding the region.

Speaking with local leaders and community members, we witnessed firsthand the resilience that defines this region. In Kiryat Shmona, we visited the Mashabim Community Stress Prevention Center, where they’re doing extraordinary work to support residents coping with ongoing trauma. We also spent time visiting Tel-Hai College, which is on the path to becoming a university—a transformation that holds so much promise for the region’s future.

What struck me most was the strength of communities like Galil Elion, who have endured constant attacks but refuse to give in to despair. Their resolve is a powerful reminder of why our support is so crucial. Thanks to your generosity through the Israel Emergency Campaign and Annual Campaign, we are not just helping these communities survive; we are helping them build a future. I’m excited to share more about the difference we’re making together next week.

One particularly moving experience was our volunteer project at the public library in Kiryat Shmona. Together, we built flower boxes and outdoor furniture to create a welcoming space for residents returning home. It was a small act of kindness, but one that carried a powerful message: that they are not alone, that we see them, and that we stand with them.

Our strong connection with Israel is at the heart of what we do, and through programs like Shinshinim, we continue to strengthen these ties.

The shinshinim—Israeli teens who spend a year in Canada as emissaries— enrich our communities and also provide participants with a unique, immersive experience of Jewish life in the diaspora. They share their passion for Israel and its culture and traditions with students at day and Hebrew schools, summer camps, the JCC, and regional communities.

While in Israel, I’ll also meet with the four new shinshinim and their parents, who are set to arrive in August. We’re excited to introduce them to you in the coming weeks. In the meantime, I’m thrilled to introduce Lihi and Or, who have been with us since last summer and will share their inspiring journey with us.

Shabbat Shalom, everyone!
We are the Shinshiniot, Lihi and Or. We came from Israel to spend a year volunteering in this incredible community through the Jewish Agency.
When we landed six months ago, we had no idea what to expect. But as soon as we stepped off the plane, we were greeted by so many warm and welcoming faces, and all our concerns disappeared. You embraced us with open arms and open hearts, and for that, we are deeply grateful.

Since then, we have learned so much about the diversity of Jewish life here, what it means to live as a minority, and, most of all, about the deep support and connection this community has with Israel. Despite the physical distance, we feel how much you care, how you stay informed, and how you worry about Israel’s well-being and the well-being of our families back home.

Attending rallies and seeing people show up week after week to support Israel has been incredibly moving. Witnessing how much it matters to you and how deeply you care reassures us that we are exactly where we are meant to be.

One amazing experience was the Invictus Games, where we felt immense pride seeing the Israeli team and how warmly the community welcomed them. It was fantastic meeting players and volunteering alongside the amazing people of Vancouver. It was unforgettable to attend a basketball game and see familiar faces from the Jewish Federation, our schools, and our students—all cheering for Israel!

It was a blast celebrating, waving Israeli flags, and feeling overwhelming pride together when Israel won. Seeing kids who had never even been to Israel cheering so passionately filled our hearts with joy.

No matter where we are in the world, we, the Jewish people, are one big family.
We are so lucky to have called Vancouver our home away from home for the past six months. We have gained not just experiences but a second family here.

Thank you for welcoming us so warmly—we are so proud to be part of this community.

You can make their time in Vancouver even more memorable.
Lihi and Or, and the shinshinims before them, have been amazing, bringing Israeli culture and traditions to Vancouver, and they're eager to dive even deeper into all things local. Let's show them the best of B.C.—whether it's a cozy Shabbat dinner, a family gathering, or even a hockey game! Let's share our traditions, our city, and our local gems. If you plan to go to Stanley Park, Whistler, or your favourite spot and want some company, connect with Katia Fermon to host them or show them around!

As our connection with Israel strengthens through programs like Shinshinim, it's inspiring to see emerging leaders at home.

Yesterday, our community witnessed this potential at the public speaking contest for grades 4 to 7. This contest, created in 1989 by Larry and Rhona Barzelai, is a partnership between the Jewish Federation, JCC, and Israel Bonds, empowering young voices and strengthening our community's connection with our identity as a people.

The speeches were a powerful showcase of confidence, creativity, and passion, with more than 50 participants stepping up to share their voices. This event truly highlighted the bright future ahead as we empower our youth to lead and make a difference.

Mazel tov to all participants. As Larry said, it takes courage to stand in front of the public, and everyone here is a winner.

Shabbat shalom,