Dear Chevrei Am Kolel,

Shalom Lachem on this May 14!   On the secular calender today marks the birthday of the State of Israel.  On May 14, 1948 Israel was declared a State.  These past 60 years have been ones of marvelous growth for our people but they have also been marked by wars and great challenges.

At times it seems impossible that there can ever be peace in the land. But to withdraw from concern and support for those efforts that are working towards creating a more just society as envisioned by Israel's founders, is to deny part of our own soul.  HaTikvah, the song that has inspired our people this past century to rebuild it's life in the land of Israel must now embrace the idea of Tikvah for all the inhabitants of the land. Only then can the dream become fulfilled.

Hope to see you this Sunday at Sanctuary!

B'Shalom,

Reb David