A ‘Birthright for Moms,’ now for Dads too

Recently, 20 local women joined hundreds of other moms from communities across the U.S. for the Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project (JWRP) T.A.G. (Transform and Grow) Mission. JWRP has brought thousands of Jewish mothers to Israel on what it calls a “Birthright for Moms.” Julie Torem was one of the local participants. She described the experience as providing “sisterhood, graciousness, love, introspection and fun!”

“This was such a gift to spend my first trip to Israel with such amazing women…a very spiritual, fun learning experience for women from all denominations of Judaism,” noted Linda Shaw, another trip participant. “We danced, we prayed, we learned, we bonded but most importantly we came together as Jewish women and mothers to enhance our Judaism on all levels.”

This was the first time Cincinnati was awarded spots on this mission, and given the many women wishing to be involved, Sarah’s Place will attempt to secure more spaces on upcoming JWRP missions.

The “men left behind” have expressed their interest in a similarly inspiring “spiritual-growth-oriented” Israel trip. Fortunately, Aish Hatorah, with whom JWRP is affiliated, has been coordinating men’s learning missions. Cincinnati has been awarded spots on such a mission this coming fall. This “Learn and Know” mission is designed to provide the sense of attachment to the Land that can only come through knowledge of its history and corroborated facts, as well as opportunities to delve into classic Jewish wisdom through exposure to the texts.

The mens’ mission will offer three tracks. The first will combine many unique “only-in-Israel” experiences with fascinating tours led by Israeli guides. The second track will allow participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in textual study in the Aish Hatorah Beit Medrash (study hall) overlooking the Temple Mount. No previous background will be necessary to appreciate this “taste of Yeshiva” experience. This track will also include several tours and inspiring lectures. The third track is geared to those who can spend a full two weeks in Israel. It will build on the “taste of Yeshsiva” track and offer varied learning opportunities and educational tours during a second incredible week. For men ages 26 and under this track is eligible for full funding.

The Aish Israel mission is scheduled to depart from Cincinnati on Nov. 6. Any local Jewish men can apply for this trip. All packages are subsidized.

The local provider for this trip is the Cincinnati Community Kollel and the city leader will be Kollel outreach director, Rabbi Yitzchok Preis. For application information, please contact him.