Israel Trip Info Session
Dear CRC Family,
For a while now, we’ve been planning a “CRC Values in Israel” trip—a chance to go together and see the place through our community’s eyes. When the Federation announced their subsidized, multi-generational “L’Dor V’Dor” trip (December 23, 2026 – January 3, 2027), we decided to partner rather than duplicate. CRC is now one of the sponsoring congregations, and we’re adding our own extension for those who want to go deeper.
Our info session is re-scheduled for Next Wednesday, March 11 at 6:00 PM—join me to learn more about potentially going together. Pizza provided if you RSVP!
The Federation itinerary is really well designed for first-timers and families: Jerusalem, the Negev, Tel Aviv, the Gaza Envelope communities. It’s also a chance to travel alongside Jews from across St. Louis—to build relationships beyond our own walls. Karen and I have decided to bring our kids (this will be the first time they’ve been since they were too young to remember), but this is a trip very much for folks of all ages.
For those interested, we’re planning a 3-5 day CRC extension after the main trip ends—a chance to explore Israel through a CRC values lens. We’ll visit Hebron and see the occupation up close. We’ll meet with Palestinians and Palestinian Israelis and hear their perspectives. We’ll spend time with Israelis working for democracy, and meet with progressive leaders, politicians, and educators I’ve built relationships with over the years.
We’ll have time at the Shalom Hartman Institute, where I’m a Senior Rabbinic Fellow. We’ll explore queer experiences in Israel. The exact shape of this extension—how long, what it costs, where we go—will depend on who’s coming and what the group wants to explore together.
I know Israel brings up a lot for many of us. Different feelings, different relationships, different hopes and concerns. This trip—especially our CRC piece—is built around leaning into that complexity together, not avoiding it.
A few quick details on the main trip:
- Cost: $2,995/person (includes a $1,100/person subsidy from the Lubin-Green Foundation)
- Deposits are fully refundable through May 28, 2026—no risk in holding your spot
- Full details: jfedstl.org/ldor-vdor-exploring-israel-together
I’d love to see you Wednesday.
B’vracha,
Rabbi Daniel
