Resolution on Israel, Temple Shalom Board of Directors

Enacted unanimously at January 13, 2010, Board Meeting 

Whereas the Land of Israel has been central to the Jewish religion and Jewish history for over three millennia; and

Whereas, in modern times, “Reform Judaism affirms the central tenets of Judaism — God, Torah, and Israel” [URJ website:  “What is Reform Judaism?]; and

Whereas other modern Jewish denominations, including Conservative, Reconstructionist, and many Orthodox branches, have also formally embraced Zionism [letter from Rabbi Jacob to the Congregation, 10/3/09]; and

Whereas Temple Shalom, like other synagogues, regularly recites on Shabbat and the High Holidays, the prayer for the State of Israel, which begins, “O Heavenly One, Protector and Redeemer of Israel, bless the State of Israel [p. 377 of our Siddur];” and

Whereas the State of Israel faces increasing attempts to delegitimize its existence as a Jewish State, as well as increasing physical threats; and

Whereas members of Temple Shalom, while holding varying views of specific government policies, much like our brothers and sisters in the democratic State of Israel, stand united in support of Israel’s legitimacy and right to defend itself against physical and other threats;

Therefore, consistent with Temple Shalom’s mission to enrich Jewish identity and welcome diverse practices of Judaism, the Board of Temple Shalom endorses the statement from the Union for Reform Judaism’s mission, “to be supportive of the State of Israel and the Jewish people wherever they live.”

The Board shall take all appropriate steps to make this resolution known.