As the holiday of Passover approaches, it brings with it a poignant opportunity for reflection, especially in light of the past six months of conflict that have deeply affected Israel. Since October 7, our hearts have been heavy witnessing the strife and turmoil that has gripped the region. Yet, amidst the darkness, Passover reminds us of the enduring power of hope, resilience, and the potential for renewal.
Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is a time of commemoration and celebration for the Jewish people. It marks the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt, a journey from oppression to freedom. The story of Passover is one of resilience, faith, and the triumph of the human spirit over adversity.
In the midst of our own contemporary challenges, we can draw strength and inspiration from the Passover narrative. The past six months have seen a surge in tensions, violence, and loss in Israel, leaving many communities reeling from the impacts of conflict. Families have been displaced, lives shattered, and hope tested. Yet, just as the Israelites persevered through their trials, so too can we find the courage to endure and rebuild.
Passover also calls us to reflect on the values of compassion, empathy, and solidarity. It reminds us of our shared humanity and the importance of standing together in times of need. As we gather around the Seder table, we are called to remember those who are suffering and to extend a hand of support and solidarity to our brothers and sisters in Israel.
One meaningful way to show our support is through charitable giving. Organizations like the Center for Jewish Philanthropy (CJP) brings the Jewish community together to fund many nonprofits in the greater Phoenix area, Israel, and around the world. By donating to the annual community campaign, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of our local community as well as those impacted by the recent turmoil in Israel.
The CJP’s annual campaign serves as a lifeline for countless individuals and families, providing essential resources and support services to those in need. Through initiatives such as emergency relief funds, trauma counseling, and community rebuilding efforts, the campaign plays a crucial role in helping communities recover and rebuild in the wake of conflict.
As we prepare to celebrate Passover, let us not only remember the ancient journey from slavery to freedom but also the ongoing struggles for peace and justice in our world today. CJP identifies and addresses the greater Phoenix Jewish community’s greatest challenges and opportunities. Our legacy organizations, the Jewish Community Foundation and the Jewish Federation of greater Phoenix were here when this community was built and have been at its center for over a combined 130 years.
We are focused on the future as much as the present, having both the 35,000-foot view required to plan for tomorrow and the hands-on partnerships that make it possible for us to care for our community today. We do this in collaboration with our organizational partners and our most committed leaders and donors. We focus on our local greater Phoenix community and support those organizations doing essential work in Israel and throughout the Jewish world. Our goal is to create the kind of enduring Jewish community we all want and need, based on shared goals and Jewish values.
This Passover, may we find strength in our shared history, hope in our collective resilience, and inspiration in our capacity to make a difference. Together, let us build a future of peace, justice, and compassion for all.
To donate to CJP’s annual campaign and support our efforts to strengthen our community in the year ahead, click the link below.
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