There’s no shortage of opinions when it comes to Israel. But how often do we slow down and take a hard look at where it all started, where things stand now and what’s possible moving forward?
That’s exactly what Congregation Shaare Emeth is inviting the St. Louis community to do with its new three-part series, “Israel: The Dream, The Reality, The Possibilities.” The course, free and open to all, will run on three Wednesdays—April 2, 16 and 23—at 7 p.m. at Shaare Emeth.
The goal isn’t to change anyone’s mind or stir up more debate. It’s to offer honest, thoughtful learning about Israel’s founding principles, its current challenges and its future potential—through the lens of Israeli educator Dr. Ayala Hendin, Israel Fellow at Washington University. The second session will feature a special conversation between Dr. Hendin and Dr. Mona Khoury, Vice President of Diversity and Strategy at Hebrew University.
“At this critical time, when the safety and security of Israel is on all our minds, it is an incredible gift to be able to learn about the vision of the founders of the Jewish State,” said Rabbi Jim Bennett of Shaare Emeth.
The course will use Israel’s 1948 Declaration of Independence as a starting point, unpacking how the promises of freedom, justice and equality have been realized—or fallen short—over the decades.
But before you grab a seat, here are five things to know before you go to help you make the most of the experience:
1. This isn’t a history lecture—it’s a journey
The series kicks off with Israel’s founding ideals. Dr. Hendin hopes attendees will walk away understanding how many of today’s headlines trace back to Israel’s earliest days and the values spelled out in its Declaration of Independence.
“In a reality where news constantly changes, I hope revisiting such a foundational document will provide participants with context and clues to how Israel’s history is shaping the present,” Hendin said.
2. Expect real talk about real challenges
The second session will feature a candid discussion between Dr. Hendin and Dr. Khoury, focusing on diversity, equity and inclusion in Israeli higher education—at a time when democracy itself is under strain. Dr. Khoury, an Arab Israeli academic and the first Arab Vice President at Hebrew University, will share her perspective as part of an open, honest conversation hosted by Dr. Hendin.
3. You’ll be invited to think about your role
The final session, focused on possibilities, won’t just look at Israel’s future. It will challenge attendees to consider what role American Jews can and should play in shaping that future.
“These sessions aren’t only about learning,” Hendin said. “They’re a call for action.”
4. The course is free—but registration is required
There’s no cost to attend, but participants are asked to register in advance at https://sestl.co/israelseries.
5. It’s a chance to learn from two powerful voices
Dr. Hendin doesn’t shy away from tough conversations—and this series is designed to welcome participants at all knowledge levels. For one session, she’ll be joined in dialogue by Dr. Khoury, whose lived experience and academic expertise bring a unique and essential perspective to the conversation.
Hendin says that despite the current challenges in Israel, there are still reasons to hope. “Hope is a challenging concept when hostages are still in captivity and war feels never-ending,” she said. “But Israel’s civil society, the families of hostages and those committed to equity and equality all give me hope.”
And she believes that American Jews can play a role in shaping what’s next. “If we can revisit the values and principles Israel committed to in 1948,” Hendin said, “maybe they can serve as a guiding compass as we navigate today’s challenges.”
