April 27, 2013 - Dead Sea, Red Sea. . .Now Shabbat on the Med Sea

(Updated from Ben Gurion airport - now with even more pictures!)

A leisurely Shabbat Day in Tel Aviv - our last in Israel (for now!)



We began the day with a meditative Shabbat morning service on a jetty leading out into the Mediterranean Sea. We have a beautiful Sanctuary at home, but there was something so lovely about praying with the sound of the waves against the rocks and our prayers stretching over the city in one direction and the sea in the other.



The bulk of the day was free. After enjoying a luxuriously late breakfast, we all spent time around the city. Some stayed on the beach and swam in the sea - fulfilling the Dead Sea, Red Sea, Med Sea trifecta. Others took long walks along the boardwalk or into the city. Tel Aviv is a great place of people-watching as well as enjoying the beautiful architecture, the sun and the sea.



In the late afternoon, we had a special treat. A few years ago CBI began connecting with gay couples who were having children through surrogacy. This cannot be done in Israel and couples have to go to either India or the United States. For some reason Oregon is a optimal place for the couples to begin their families. We have been converting and holding brises for these children. Four of these families have had their first Jewish ceremonies at Congregation Beth Israel. As a thank you, the first of those couples, Guy Tatsay and Lucian Laur hosted our entire group along with the families and other couples who are in the process. It was an emotional and festive reunion and we are thrilled to be reconnecting with these families.



Our time in Israel ended with a farewell dinner and havdalah in the newly renovated Jaffa Port. We shared the last surprise of the trip: while we were in Eilat, our driver Moudi became engaged!


We had a quiet Havdalah as we each reflected on our time in Israel and listened to the waves of the Mediterranean washing onto the rocks behind, us as the bonfires of Lag B'Omer began to be lit.


We leave Israel, emotionally rich, rejuvenated and grateful for the meaning that Israel can bring into our lives.



L'hitraot! See you again soon.