Minyan Masorti Shabbat Service: Refugee Shabbat

On Saturday October 20 GJC will participate in HIAS’s National Refugee Shabbat, during which Jews across the country will learn more about refugees and opportunities for helping.  In the face of unprecedented attempts to close America’s doors to those seeking freedom from violence and persecution, this is a critical moment to give voice to, and stand up for, our values as Americans and Jews.  We will dedicate time and energy to thinking about refugees and asylum seekers, and recommit to putting our values into action.

At GJC there will be:

• Special Torah discussions in each of the minyanim that will include insights from our members who have been working with our Syrian refugee family.
• Following services, there will be a community wide luncheon from 12:30-1:30 in Marcus Auditorium.
• Following lunch, there will be a panel discussion including Cathryn Miller-Wilson, CEO of HIAS PA, and Peter Gonzales, CEO of the Welcoming Center for New Pennsylvanians

They will discuss the refugee situation in Philadelphia and the roles of their respective organizations. They will suggest how individuals and GJC as a congregation can be involved with advocacy, resettlement and mentoring for refugees and there will also be time for questions and discussion.  We will provide information packets for you to take home.