Support. Learn. Engage.
At Temple Beth El, our hearts remain with Israel and all those impacted by these challenging times. As a congregation, we stand in solidarity with the people of Israel and the Jewish community worldwide. Whether you’re looking for spiritual support, learning opportunities, or ways to take action, we are here for you.
Need support? Our clergy are here to listen. Do not hesitate to reach out at 704-366-1948.
Explore ways to get involved below:
Quick Links
Upcoming Opportunities
We will continue to update this section with upcoming learning opportunities and community-wide events.
Erez Kaganovitz, Israeli Artist-in-Residence, will provide his artistic insights into Israeli society post October 7th. He will be displaying and discussing his latest exhibit, Humans of October 7th. Kaganovitz is the founder and facilitator of Humans of Tel Aviv, using photography to share the story of Israel.
Sponsor: Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte
Join Rabbi Josh Weinberg, Executive Director of ARZA, for a weekend of learning and conversation as we explore the evolving relationship between Israel and the Diaspora, the values that guide Reform Zionism, and the impact of the upcoming World Zionist Congress elections. Together, we’ll reflect on where we are, what’s at stake, and how we move forward.
This weekend is sponsored by Temple Beth El’s Ahavat Medinat Yisrael (Love for the State of Israel) Endowment.
Resources from Clergy
There is a lot of information and misinformation circulating right now. We encourage the following resources:
Trusted Israeli News Sources
Recommended Podcasts
Recommended Books
- Son of Hamas: A Gripping Account of Terror, Betrayal, Political Intrigue, and Unthinkable Choices by Mosab Hassan Yousef
- Jews Don’t Count by David Baddiel
- Can We Talk About Israel? A Guide for the Curious, Confused, and Conflicted by Daniel Sokatch
- Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth by Noah Tishby
Parent Resources
It can be difficult to talk to children about Israel, conflict, and safety. These resources provide age-appropriate guides, conversation starters, and action steps.
- PJ Library’s Israel Hub
- American Jewish Committee: Links to timely articles to understand what is happening currently in Israel
- Jewish Education Center of Cleveland: Resource for parents to talk to kids complete with action steps and conversation guides
- Kveller.com: Tips from both parent and child writers on talking about the violence
- National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Guide to how children of different ages respond to trauma and how to help them
Donations
Unfortunately, scammers take advantage of crises. If you wish to donate to support Israel, please do so through trusted organizations. Temple Beth El and the Charlotte Jewish Federation recommend giving through the Jewish Federations of North America.
Reminder: Temple Beth El clergy and staff will never solicit donations via gift cards or online payment apps. If you receive such a request, please report it immediately.
Birkat Shalom
Our Sister Congregation in Israel
Temple Beth El is committed to supporting the Reform movement in Israel. Our congregation maintains an ongoing partnership with Birkat Shalom in Kibbutz Gezer.
We support Birkat Shalom through:
- Financial contributions to sustain Reform Jewish life in Israel
- Reciprocal visits to strengthen the bond between our communities
- Collaborative learning & programming to deepen shared Jewish identity
