June Executive Director Address
I just returned from Israel with my wife, Barri. We went to provide aid and share joy. Despite the mood there, we did our best to stay upbeat. At times though, Barri couldn’t help but be a bit “catty” (see the photo taken in an Israeli hospital’s underground emergency room).
We all know we are living in a rather upside-down world, evidenced, in part, by the assault on Jewish personhood and statehood being perpetrated from Gaza and reflected on our college campuses. I’m glad for that and am pleased to work together with them and other like-minded Messianic ministries. Please pass along information on CPM’s coming Courage Conference and encourage college-age kids to attend.
Speaking of attending, I have two important Union events to commend—beginning with our annual Summer Family Conference.
With just around two months to go before the conference kicks off, we’ve already seen an uptick in registration. Old friends are coming, as are new ones. As of this writing, the Union has received 21 new member applications.
We’ve got a robust conference program planned, full of rich teaching, the launch of a Union Klezmer Band, the return of the Union Sisterhood, and individualized tracks for our teens, children, and nursery.
Make plans to be there and please play your part in generating momentum! Talk it up; share it with your friends and family on social media. Bring your family!
Years ago, I would not have referred to an online experience as any sort of coming together—but that was then. Now, however, I am pleased to report, that 68-year-old me is coming to terms with the modern world. The Union’s Tikkun Leil Shavuot virtual event, June 11–12, will afford the young and old alike an opportunity to come together. Those not familiar with Judaism’s Tikkun Leil Shavuot tradition will be well served to go to https://www.thejc.com/judaism/what-is-tikkun-leil-on-shavuot-itl58jl0 for details.
Our line-up of speakers will all center their teachings around Ruth, how her manner and message impact us today.
Let my brief reminder serve as a little “nudge” for those who haven’t yet signed up. Here's the link with all the details.
Before I sign off on this month’s Executive Director letter, let me remind you that I include a short video clip for those who’d like to hear me weigh in a bit more. Whether or not you listen to the clip, hear me when I say—from the bottom of my heart—that I appreciate your participation in the miracle that is the Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations.
Yours,
Dr. Jeffrey Seif
Executive Director
Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations