Activities

Activities With Poland’s Hidden Jews

The annual seminar in Israel: During July and August, the first seminar was held in Israel for the descendants of “Poland’s hidden Jews.” The seminar was aimed at the youth and numbered some 25 participants. It was held in the town of Efrat, lasting for five weeks. Participants intensively studied Hebrew, Jewish sources, Jewish philosophy, Jewish history, Halachah and so forth. They also toured our country, making connections with their roots in an emotional exciting way. For sure, this special experience made its mark upon all the participants.

The annual seminar in Poland: During 26-28 of October 2007, the first seminar for descendants of “Poland's hidden Jews” was held in Poland under Shavei Israel's sponsorship. Young people and adults participated, descendants of Polish Jews, who for various reasons abandoned actively practicing Judaism. However, their descendants expressed their desire to return to their roots. Shavei Israel's leaders, Chairman Michael Freund and Rabbi Eliyahu Birnbaum, were among the speakers. Rabbis from various Polish communities also participated. Students participated in a special panel. On the last day, there was be a tour of Krakow.

Sending emissaries: Shavei Israel has two emissaries in Poland: Rabbi Boaz Pasch in Krakow and Rabbi Isaac Rapoport in Wroclaw. Both of them invest their best efforts and extend their hand to anyone interested in returning to their Jewish roots, as well accompanying those who are already in the conversion process. Both communities are very active and anybody who is interested can experience the Jewish life cycle personally and excitingly.

Publishing an informative bulletin: Shavei Israel publishes an informative monthly bulleting, dedicated to the Polish people. The bulletin contains a great deal of information about Judaism, Jewish holidays, Philosophy, Halachah, tradition and history. This publication will join the other existing ones in Spanish, Portuguese, Mizo, Kuki and English.

Publishing materials on Judaism: As part of the accompanying and support process that Shavei Israel grants to the “hidden Jews” who wish to return to their Jewish heritage, the organization published various materials connected with Judaism in Hebrew, Polish and transliterations. Among the publications can be found the Grace After Meals, Prayer for the Sick, the Traveler’s Prayer and the Blessing of the Children.