OPENING CEREMONY
The World Union’s CONNECTIONS convention opens with a stirring procession of flags from around the world – a ceremony that symbolizes the global reach of our Jewish family and yet connects us all together.
This event is a celebration of everything and everyone in the World Union. You will hear from today’s and tomorrow’s leaders of our movement, get a taste of what the following activity-filled days will be about and enjoy some musical and visual presentations to help put you in the CONNECTIONS state of mind.
Finally, we’ll all meet at a special reception where you can start making your own connections with colleagues from near and far, connections that will strengthen throughout the conference and last long into the future.
NETZER OLAMI - 30TH ANNIVERSARY
Thursday evening’s entertainment is a special celebration marking the 30th anniversary of Netzer Olami, the World Union’s international Reform Zionist youth movement.
Representing over 16,000 active youth leaders from Israel, the U.K., Australia, the U.S., Brazil, South Africa, Russia and Germany and more CONNECTIONS 2009’s Netzer delegates will proudly share their achievements over three decades, their special projects of Tikkun olam, and their vision for the future of Reform, Progressive and Liberal Judaism in their own countries and worldwide. Chanichim, madrichim, shlichim, graduates and guests will all enjoy the famous Netzer "Ruach".
SHABBAT
A World Union CONNECTIONS Shabbat is unique in all the world – a moving, spiritual, multilingual experience shared with hundreds of your Jewish brothers and sisters.
Share a spiritually uplifting occasion with old and new friends.
Hear what prayers, readings and song sound like, as practiced by Jews throughout our world.
Feel the deep connection to one another that our rich traditions have created over the centuries, and get inspired to return home with renewed purpose and commitment for the future.
CLOSING CEREMONY
This event is an emotional closing of CONNECTIONS, a tribute to the love and work of those who made it all possible, and an exciting send off.
Our CONNECTIONS 2009 Gala Event will celebrate the themes and accomplishments of the previous days, and set forth the World Union’s goals and aspirations that will take us to the 35th international convention in 2011. An inspiring keynote and unique presentations, all preceded by a gala reception will ensure that this festive event nourishes both your mind and soul. It will also provide you with another opportunity to enjoy the company of your friends, new and old, moments before saying goodbye and Lehitra'ot – so be sure you don’t leave without the information you need to stay connected!
REGIONAL SHUK
No trip to Israel is complete without visiting a shuk (market), and our CONNECTIONS 2009 shuk will be your opportunity to ‘visit’ our regions and learn more about the people and movements there.
You may find out about a Shabbat service prayer or practice that you think will enrich your congregation’s worship at home; or a social action project that will engage your rabbi or youth group; or an interfaith program that will bring local ethnic communities closer together; or distinctive customs or foods to spice up your holidays.
MUSIC
Center stage and off stage, the music of singer, songwriter and recording artist, Peri Smilow, will engage and uplift you throughout the convention.
Singing in Hebrew and English, Peri weaves a unique musical tapestry with threads of social justice, community and peace for a sound that is captivating and rare.
To learn more about Peri Smilow, visit her Web site here.