JCRC Launches Program to Encourage Interfaith Dialogue on Israel

In order to build upon relationships with the Christian community around Israel-related issues, the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation has created an education initiative called “Faith in Each Other: An Israel Dialogue.” Offered free of charge, the program enables local churches to host speakers from the JCRC who are knowledgeable about the history of Israel and the Middle East, and creates an environment for interfaith discussion and understanding.

“It is increasingly vital that those of diverse faiths and backgrounds in our Miami-Dade community come together, especially against a backdrop of geopolitical unrest, growing extremism and rising tensions in the Middle East.” said Regina Zelonker, a long-time Federation Board member and Chair of the Faith in Each Other initiative. “We believe that, through thoughtful and balanced dialogue, we can improve the community’s understanding of the shared values of the U.S. and Israel.”

To facilitate such dialogue, the JCRC has assembled a team of trained volunteers who can conduct an informal, educational multimedia presentation at the location of the host organization’s choice. The interactive presentation uses maps, photos, diagrams and simple facts to chronicle the history of the Middle East region, from Biblical times to the present day; explains the history of Jews and Arabs in the area; and explores current problems. It also highlights important peace agreements between Israel and some of its Arab neighbors, and gives a glimmer of hope for peace between the Israelis and the Palestinians.

For more information, or to schedule a presentation for an organization or group, contact the JCRC at 786.866.8486 or [email protected].