Dear friends,
It is with mixed emotions that we send to you our greetings as Rosh Hashanah 5786 approaches.
We are distraught at the fact that hostages continue to languish in Gaza, that the war is still not over, and that Israel and Jews are increasingly vilified throughout the world. In many places, antisemitism is rising at alarming rates, and the sense of security that Jewish communities once felt has been deeply shaken.
Yet the New Year is a time of reflection, new beginnings, and hope. We look back with pride on what the World Jewish Congress has accomplished this past year in advocating for the Jewish people and the Jewish state, and we renew our commitment to leading with integrity and to representing our communities in meaningful ways.
At our recent 17th WJC Plenary Assembly in Jerusalem, a new group of leaders was elected to carry forward our collective mission. This moment of transition coincides with the spirit of the Yamim Noraim – the Days of Awe. When we hear the sound of the shofar, we are reminded that it is a call to amplify our voices and to act with purpose and unity.
It is our fervent hope and prayer that the coming year brings healing, justice, and peace to our people, to the State of Israel, and to the world. May those in captivity be speedily returned to their families. May the men and women who are risking their lives to defend Israel come home safely. May our communities find the strength and resilience to carry on. And may we all find renewed courage to stand proudly and unapologetically as Jews in every corner of the globe.
Shana Tova U'Metuka — wishing you and your loved ones a sweet, healthy, and peaceful New Year, and still hoping only for good news, Besorot Tovot,
