Strengthening our bond with Israel this summer

Rabbi Adam F. Miller

When I first arrived in Naples, I often heard, “Nothing happens in Naples over the summer … unless you count the locals taking advantage of the summer meal specials.” Perhaps that was once true but, today, we know that to no longer be the case. Abundant activity, especially Jewish life, continues here year-round. Adult education classes, summer camp activities and worship services (with better attendance than many northern congregations!) occur throughout the summer. With Zoom and streaming technology, many will also stay involved in our community remotely.

Truly, our Jewish community thrives year-round in Southwest Florida and so, too, does our love and connection for Israel. On March 31, more than 150 attended the first major event of Stand With Us hosted at Temple Shalom in partnership with Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and support from Baer’s Furniture. That event demonstrates just how deeply we feel the need to stand up for Israel on college campuses as well as speak out against the rise of antisemitism and BDS movements.

Those Zionist feelings are not new to this area. Many recall the Israel solidarity rally at the Naples Pier and annual Israel festivals as well as Federation’s support for Ne’ve Michal Children’s Village, Yad LaKashish and teen travel to Israel. Individuals connect locally to Israel through organizations like Jewish National Fund, Israel Bonds, Hadassah and the Technion Society.

At Temple Shalom, dozens joined learning sessions about Israel hosted by an Israeli guide (the wonders of technology!). Later this month, Rabbi Boxman and I will be attending the inaugural conference of the Zionist Rabbinic Coalition in Washington, D.C. and, in December 2023, we will have our next congregational trip to Israel.

While there is darkness, there is also light. We take heart, knowing that Israel remains an or la-goyim — a light to the nations through its acts of tikkun olam and emergency response to global disasters. The most recent example is the Israeli emergency field hospitals providing vital medical care in Ukraine. We celebrate Israel’s ability to overcome obstacles and persevere. Most importantly, we should know that we, the North American Jewish community, are an important factor in the survival of Israel.

Rabbi Rick Jacobs, President of the Union for Reform Judaism, shares a story that should give us hope. During Benjamin Netanyahu’s last stint as Prime Minister, he leaned toward Rabbi Jacobs at an event and simply said, “Thank you.”

Rabbi Jacobs gave the Prime Minister the answer instilled in him by his parents, “You’re welcome,” followed by, “Now I have to ask, what are you thanking me for?”

The Prime Minister smiled and answered his question, “For believing in Israel, even at its darkest hour.” Netanyahu explained that the Reform movement did not recall a single trip to Israel even at the height of what was then the most recent Gaza conflict. The Reform movement stayed steadfast in its unwavering support for Israel.

That simple exchange demonstrates our hope. Israel needs us — just as we need the connection to Israel. Let us not wait for the next conflict, the next attempt to degrade, disenfranchise or destroy Israel for us to build on that connection. Rather, this summer should be a time for us to draw closer to Israel. To support Israel, read books about Israel, buy products made in or sold in Israel, and share with others the blessing that is modern Israel. Plan a future trip to Israel — to get beneath the surface so that we can better understand one another — Jews of Israel and Jews of the world.

Just as we know that life continues here despite the myth of a quiet summer, our connection to Israel remains important 365 days of the year. May that bond only grow stronger this summer and in the years to come.

Rabbi Adam Miller serves at Temple Shalom.