For the Jewish people, Rosh HaShana, the New Year, is a time of renewal – our annual spiritual stock-taking, a time to contemplate our bigger goals in life, both existentially and spiritually.

CLICK HERE to see a short message about the holiday from our Founder and CEO, Rabbi Raphael Shore.

Rosh HaShana celebrates the day that Adam and Eve were created. The Sages ask the question: Why was man created as an individual, one man and one wife, rather than in multitudes like all the other species? They answer: So that they should feel “bishvili nivra ha’olam – the world was created for me.” As it was created for them, they understood that they were responsible for taking care of it.

We, in turn, should view the world in the same vein. We should look at our circles of influence, our communities, even the world, as our personal responsibility. A Jewish approach to leadership is based on the premise that if we can make a difference, we are obligated to do so.

At Jerusalem U, we believe that it is vital to win the hearts and minds of young Jews so that they will stay involved in the Jewish community and connected to Israel. In order to do this, we need to constantly poke and probe our methodology and hone our activities so that they will have the greatest impact. This Rosh HaShana, we are conducting an online poll which aims to help us better understand what Jews of all ages are seeking and where they stand on Jewish/Israel related issues. Partial results can be found HERE. However, we are still collecting data and opinions. If you, or others you know, wish to fill out the survey, CLICK HERE.

Our goal is to create a strong cadre of new generation leaders who will guide us toward a future of great promise for the Jewish people.

At this time of year, we are especially grateful to our supporters who make the Jewish people and Israel stronger and better. Thank you for all you do.

We wish you and your families Shana Tova U'mtuka – a sweet year filled with possibilities and blessings.

Jerusalem U