We are still waiting for the summer to begin here in Brussels, but the IJC is preparing for its annual summer break. Despite the storms threatening Jews around the world and in Belgium, including rising antisemitism and the ongoing war in Gaza, the weather is sunny over our community.
Consider the great number of well-attended activities over the past weeks. We have hosted talks from members Simone Burger and Harriet Behrman and we have held a joint Shabbat dinner with Beth Hillel. As I write, we are preparing to gather for Shavuot cheesecake and study, and for our annual weekend Shabbat retreat.
The year has also been marked by the successful completion of grant programs. We concluded the Bar and Bat Mitzvah program with a wonderful trip to Israel, fortunately before October 7. Throughout the winter, we hosted both French and Dutch-speaking school groups at our synagogue in the European Commission Neighbors program. This past month, we even visited the German school. Both students and teachers are asking us to continue visits next year. We need to search for funding to keep up the momentum of this important work.
Other new programs are launching - or should I say, relaunching. One is called Open Moishe House and it subsidizes events with a Jewish theme for young professionals and students. Moishe House is a wonderful organization. Our daughter runs a Moishe House in Miami and it allows her to connect with young Jews in a fun, welcoming way. The Brussels Moishe House closed when its organizers left town, but a new one has now been organized. The kick-off takes place this month. Do contact us if you want to be put in touch with the organizers.
Another notable initiative will be the relaunching of a Rosh Chodesh group. Kudos to our wonderful Greek member Effie. In her words, “the purpose of this initiative will be to support those community members (like myself) who seek further opportunities for Chavruta study, for the continuous study of the Tanakh (Torah, Nevim, Ketuvim) but also to contribute to reinforcing community spirit by providing more opportunities to engage with each other.” Stay tuned…
While we do not hold regular Shabbat services over the summer, please feel free to keep in touch. Rabbi Brian is planning an event in Leuven. Other initiatives are welcome. If you would like to open your home for a Kabbalat Shabbat gathering, please contact us.
More than a decade ago, we hosted a summer Shabbat in Brussels. It was the first time that Brian attended an IJC event. Today, he is our spiritual leader.
I'm heading to Finland this summer and looking forward to spending time in nature there. May all of you enjoy a relaxing, restorative, and happy summer break.
Anu Ristola
IJC President
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