I have yet to return from a trip to Israel uninspired. I am continually amazed by what this young country, established a mere sixty-four years ago, has been able to accomplish.
Israel is far from perfect. While we were there, a major clash erupted between ultra-orthodox and less orthodox Jews in Beit Shemesh, a city midway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. An ultra-orthodox man cursed at a young girl on her way to school because her style of dress did not conform to his very extreme standards. It was also reported that in recent years, on busses travelling through orthodox neighborhoods, women have been forced to sit in the back of the bus, lest they accidently come into contact with men.
In an unusual display of unity among liberal and conservative politicians, religious leaders (including many who are orthodox) as well as pundits and academics, there was an immediate and vigorous condemnation of the extreme, and by some standards, misogynistic treatment of women by a small minority of ultra-orthodox Jews.
There was a huge rally in Beit Shemesh; a few rocks were thrown, many more insults were exchanged, but no one was killed, and by Middle Eastern standards, the demonstration was remarkably peaceful. But then again, this is Israel, where everyone has an opinion, and like in America, everyone has the right to express it!
This is one of many reasons the relationship between the United States and Israel is so strong. It is not the influence of the so called, “Jewish lobby,” rather it is our mutual reverence for free speech, personal liberty and democracy.
In spite of all we share, I sometimes worry about the diminishing interest and support for Israel on the part of American Jews. Fifty years ago, with the Holocaust fresh on everyone’s mind, the need for a Jewish homeland was clear. That argument, though valid, tends to matter less with each passing generation.
I am convinced that a deeper understanding of Israel will lead to greater interest and support. In an effort to help fill the “knowledge gap,” we have invited Mr. Peter Drench, a faculty member at Phillips Academy to serve as this spring’s Lynch Scholar. He will deliver three lectures: The Case for Israel, The Palestinian Perspective, and Hope for the Future.
Mr. Drench is eminently qualified. He has taught in the history department since 1986, with a special interest in the Middle East.
He has spent extended periods of time in Israel, and understands in a way few people do, the complexities of the political and international landscape. And, he is an exciting and engaging lecturer.
As Jews, we may each understand our role in Israel’s destiny differently. But the truth is, Israel’s wellbeing is inextricably bound to ours. I am convinced that a greater insight into Israel’s strengths and challenges, will lead to a closer and more meaningful bond.
I hope you will join us on April 14, 28, and on May 5th! ............................Rabbi Robert S. Goldstein
Rabbi Dr. Robert Goldstein was born in Springfield, Massachusetts. He graduated from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst in 1975 and was ordained a Rabbi in 1981 at the Hebrew Union College/Jewish Institute of Religion in New York City. In 1988, Rabbi Goldstein earned a Doctor of Ministry at Andover Newton Theological School in Newton Centre, Massachusetts. His doctoral thesis was entitled, “Life Cycle.Life Crisis: Religious Orgins and Psychological Implications of Three Rites of Passage.” 
