My Growth Journal

YEAR OF GROWTH

A GUIDE FOR INSPIRING JEWISH LIVING

JOURNAL DEDICATION

It’s 2023. I’ve been reflecting on how the past few years have prepared us for this moment in time. 2020 showed us challenges we could have never imagined, ‘21 and ‘22 required patience and resilience. We made it to 2023 – and one thing we can be certain of, there will be plenty of surprises ahead. I also feel a sense of possibility.

So, too, with your journey; welcome home! In so many ways Israel will feel familiar: the bustling cities, the traffic, the stores, the food, even the crazy drivers! But your Momentum trip is so much deeper than that – although the food is really worth savoring! This trip is about you, what makes you tick as a person. It’s about your place in a long, fascinating Jewish narrative dating back thousands of years, and yet so deeply relevant today.

Later this year, I’ll have three kids on three different continents – my son Bryan (23) made Aliyah and is living in Beersheva. Samantha (25) is moving to Buenos Aires for 10 months, and Ally (21) is spending a semester in Sydney. I know that however far they travel they will be anchored in the gift of our Momentum

sisterhood – they’ve found instant family, second Moms, and local Jewish communities that have them quickly feeling at home.

On your own Momentum journey, you’ll find your own sisterhood, connecting in a joyful and meaningful way with Israel, with our shared Jewish heritage, and with each other. My own Momentum journey continues to touch my soul; it will touch yours too. Here’s my ongoing advice: Take it all in. Embrace the learning, the challenges, and the moments of insight and wonder.

This journal provides a place to capture your thoughts during your time in Israel and beyond. Write in it. Be open. Honest. Welcoming. Curious. Cherish it. Refer to it when you return home to your family. It will remind you that you are not alone, that you are an incredible gift to the world, and that, collectively, we will be a light unto the nations.

With Gratitude,

Jeanie Milbauer Co-Founder, Momentum Founder & CEO OnegHome.com

WHY WOMEN?

Our Mission

To empower women to change the world through Jewish values that transform ourselves, our families, and our communities.

Inspire a woman, you inspire a family. Inspire enough families, you inspire a community. Inspire enough communities, you can Change the World.

THANK YOU

to the Israel Ministry of Diaspora Affairs for helping us bring thousands of participants to Israel!

Since launching in 2009, we have welcomed almost 22,000 participants from 34 countries in partnership with over 375 organizations, while impacting over 40,000 children.

As of January 2023

MOMENTUM GOALs Connect to Jewish values

Timeless Jewish values guide our growth and impact.

Engage with Israel

A relationship to the land, the people, and the State of Israel can strengthen our Jewish identity and our sisterhood.

Take Action

By setting goals and implementing them, becoming role models to our children, and growing as leaders, we can make the world a better place.

Foster unity not uniformity

By focusing on our shared values and honoring our differences, we will remember that we are all created in the image of God.

TZFAT CLASSES

Peace and Wholeness in the Home

TEL AVIV CLASSES

Learning and Growth

Courage

JERUSALEM CLASSES

Faithfulness and Trust

Human Dignity

Generosity

Gratitude

MASADA/DEAD SEA CLASSES

Unity and Mutual Responsibility

* For more detailed maps of Israel, see pages 74-75

Tefilat HaDerech

THE TRAvELER’s PRAYER

A traditional prayer that asks for a safe journey

May it be Your will, Adonai, our God, and God of our ancestors, that You lead us in peace, direct our steps in peace, guide us to peace, and make us reach our desired destination alive, joyful and in peace. Rescue us from any foe and obstacle on our way, and from all afflictions that trouble the world. Send blessing and success to the works of our hands, and grant us graciousness, kindness, and compassion in Your eyes and in the eyes of all who see us.

Hear our appeals, for You are a God who hears prayers and appeals. Blessed are You, Adonai, who listens to prayers.

TefilatHaDerechTransliteration

Y’hiratzonmil’fanecha,AdonaiEloheinuvEloheiavoteinu,shetolicheinu l’shalom,v’tatzideinul’shalom,v’tadricheinul’shalom.V’tagi-einu lim’choz chef’tzeinu l’chaim ul’simcha ul’shalom. V’tatzileinu mikaf koloiyeivv’oreivv’lis’timv’chayotrayotbaderech,umikolminei pur’anuyothamit’rag’shotlavola-olam.V’tish’lachb’rachab’cholmaaseiyadeinu,v’tit’neinul’chaimul’chesedul’rachamimb’einecha, uv’eineicholro-einu,v’tish’makoltachanuneinu.KiElshomei-a te’fila

MOMENTUM TRIP

TEL AVIV

WELCOME TO ISRAEL Learning and Growth

Limud v'Hitlamdut

You are a part of the “People of the Book." You have the capacity to approach every experience as a learner.

TZFAT Peace

and Wholeness in the Home

Shalom Bayit

Family relationships can provide a living laboratory for growth. While exploring the mystical city of Tzfat, you will consider how you can create stronger relationships and grow closer to your loved ones.

Courage

Azut d’Kedushah

A modern city built on timeless values, Tel Aviv illustrates what it means to boldly step out of your comfort zone to make a difference for others.

JERUSALEM Faithfulness and Trust

Emunah

A relationship with God can anchor you in every aspect of your life in the present and can drive you toward your future. At the Kotel, the holiest place in the Jewish world, your prayers and thoughts connect you to God, yourself, and your fellow Jews.

On each day of your powerful journey in Israel, we delve into one of our Core Jewish Values.

Human Dignity

Kevod Habriyot

Each person is made in God’s image, infinitely valuable and deserving of dignity. Elevate your soul through learning, singing, and connecting with those around you.

Generosity

Chesed v'Tzedakah

On Shabbat, local Jerusalem families welcome you into their homes and lives, sharing their food and wisdom. Their hospitality is a reminder that acts of kindness and giving uphold our world.

MASADA/DEAD SEA

Unity and Mutual Responsibility

Achdut v'Areyvut

Today, you imagine the legacy you want to leave to your children and grandchildren. You consider your ancestors’ actions on Masada, and realize that we are all interconnected and responsible for one another.

UNTIL NEXT TIME: L'HITRAOT!

Gratitude

Hakarat Hatov

With your heart full of gratitude for your many blessings, you are ready to channel your growth and inspiration in ways that impact yourself, your family, and your community.

JERUSALEM

JERUSALEM

THE JOURNEY BEGINs

Momentum is a journey of insight into your core and calling.

WELCOME TO TEL AVIV

Want to learn more about Tel Aviv? Watch this short video.

TEL AvIv LEARN MORE

LEARNING AND GROWTH

Limud v'Hitlamdut

COURAGE

Azut d'Kedushah

LEARNING AND GROWTH Limud v'Hitlamdut

As a part of the People of the Book, you have the ability to approach everything as a seeker, internalizing your learning to build your capacity to do good.

My thoughts on this session

Turn it and turn it, for [guidance on] everything is in Torah. Look into it, become gray and age in it, and do not move away from it, for you have no better portion than this.

—TheEthicsofOurFathers, 5:22

THE POWER OF LEARNING AND GROWTH BIG

A learning and growth mindset is about learning from each experience and expanding your self-knowledge from interacting with each person. In Hebrew this is called hitlamdut.

Growth in Jewish life is not “all or nothing.” Set small and manageable goals to set yourself on a path of successful and ongoing development, refining your character. “According to the effort is the reward.”

Words matter. Language (both spoken and written) creates realities. Careful use of language builds healthier realities. Watch your words. Gossiping, blaming, and complaining effects not only YOUR perspective and paradigm but also those around you.

We are not told to NOT judge; rather, we are told to judge favorably. When we “switch our paradigm and reframe our thoughts” to the positive, we have more loving relationships.

The advantages of journaling range from helping you reduce stress to propelling you forward in your pursuit of personal growth. Studies show that journaling improves mental health, encourages self-confidence, boosts emotional intelligence, helps with achieving goals, inspires creativity, boosts memory, and enhances critical thinking skills.

Wisdom I can bring home with me

The Learning Continues with the Year of Growth: Becoming the Best You: Limud v’Hitlamdut, p. 11.

COURAGE

Azut d'Kedushah

Azut d’Kedushah is “holy boldness” — when, for a purpose larger than ourselves, we overcome conventions of society or our own internal limits to move beyond our comfort zones in order to do the just and courageous thing.

My thoughts on this session

Go forth from your homeland and from your parents' house to the land that I will show you. I will make of you a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.

— Genesis 12:1-2

THE COURAGE TO ACT ON YOUR CALLING

Israel didn’t begin in 1948 but rather thousands of years ago: God told Abraham and Sarah, “ Lech Lecha” (Go toward yourself). They didn’t know where they were going – they had a call to action – and they followed it.

Jewish tradition teaches that every person has a mission; we each have our own Lech Lecha call. You can listen for your calling.

Like the founders of Tel Aviv, we can identify our mission by the gifts and skills we have and by the need of our surroundings.

Herzl saw a need. He dreamed big. He envisioned. He gathered others and inspired them to collaborate toward manifesting a shared vision –a Jewish state.

Golda Meir acted on her calling, serving as a major fundraiser for the Zionist dream, and ultimately became the first female prime minister of Israel. She had holy chutzpah! Courage takes different forms of stepping beyond our comfort zone to share our gifts of time, abilities, and resources.

Momentum was founded by eight women who saw a need, dreamed big, and courageously took action.

Wisdom I can bring home with me

The Learning Continues with the Year of Growth: The Blessing of Being Bold: Azut d’Kedushah, p. 269.

IsRAEL: YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

from Dr. Zohar Raviv

INFORMATION, KNOWLEDGE, AND OPINION

This day and age presents an inverse relationship between high access to information on the one hand, and a much lower ability to engage knowledge in depth on the other hand. This reality is further aggravated by a culture wherein there also exists an inverse relationship between low levels of knowledge and very high levels of opinion.

ISRAEL: OUR HOMELAND VS. THE LAND WHICH IS OUR HOME

While Israel has always been recognized, commemorated, and celebrated as the Homeland of the Jewish people, many Jewish communities established a life in other countries throughout our history as a people. The relationship between the Homeland and the Land which is (now) home has been integral to Jewish discourse since the first Babylonian exile some 2,600 years ago, and remains a valid issue today.

ZIONISM: MODERN MOVEMENT VS. ANCIENT IDEAL

The term “Zionism” is as inspiring as it is sensitive, and even volatile. Unfortunately, modern discourse associates “Zionism” almost exclusively with the late 19th century political-ideological European movement under Benjamin Ze’ev (Theodor) Herzl, without contextualizing it within its millennia-old existence as a chief Jewish ideal. Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebecca, Jacob, Rachel and Leah - did they not all abide by the Zionist ideal?

LEGACY: OUR STORY VS. OUR NARRATIVE

The Jewish people and the State of Israel have a great story, a story of small numbers yet great impact; a story of contribution to almost every imaginable field; a story that shaped Western civilization as we know it; a story of the perpetual desire to effect positive change in the world - in short, it is a story that celebrates life, inquiry, critical thought, the constant search for the “adjacent possible,” and the empowerment to make a difference. If so, why does our own narrative remain what S. Rawidowicz once called [the narrative of] “the ever-dying people”? Why do we continuously identify our own history through a perpetual rhetoric of crisis, persecution, antisemitism, terror, and death? We should surely remember and commemorate the catastrophes that have befallen us throughout history - but we should not let them define our identity as a people.

ISRAEL IS…ISRAELIS

Among the many fascinating landscapes that await us in Israel, it is the human-scape that deserves additional attention. Israel is not merely a Homeland, or a place to explore our shared history; it is also a living mosaic, a splendid tapestry and a unique microcosm of our ongoing story as a people. Engaging its inhabitants allows a powerful glimpse into the extraordinary thrust of ordinary life.

IsRAEL's DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

Israel’s Declaration of Independence, an excerpt of which appears below, is a statement of courage. We experience the fruits of its azut d’Kedushah — its “holy chutzpah” — on the bustling streets of Tel Aviv.

The Land of Israel was the birthplace of the Jewish people. Here their spiritual, religious, and political identity was shaped. Here they first attained statehood, created cultural values of national and universal significance, and gave to the world the eternal Book of Books. Pioneers and defenders, they made deserts bloom, revived the Hebrew language, built villages and towns, and created a thriving community controlling its own economy and culture, loving peace but knowing how to defend itself, bringing the blessings of progress to all the country's inhabitants, and aspiring toward independent nationhood.

The State of Israel will be open for Jewish immigration and the ingathering of exiles; it will foster the development of the country for the benefit of all its inhabitants; it will be based on freedom, justice, and peace as envisaged by the prophets; it will ensure complete equality of social and political rights to all its inhabitants irrespective of religion, race, or sex; it will guarantee freedom of religion, conscience, language, education, and culture; it will safeguard the Holy Places of all religions; and it will be faithful to the principles of the Charter of the United Nations.

Placing our trust in the Rock of Israel, we affix our signatures to this proclamation on the soul of the Homeland in the city of Tel Aviv, on this day, the 14th of May, 1948.

CONNECT WITH IsRAEL AND IsRAELIs

Building relationships with the Israeli women on your trip is just the beginning of sustaining a strong connection to Israel. Here are some more ideas to stay engaged.

IAC

The Israeli American Council offers a range of programs for women, families, teens, college students, young professionals, and adults.

SPARKIL

s parkIL supports dreamers and doers to make a real, measurable, and continuing impact on underserved populations across Israel.

HERZL48

Join the Israel story podcast for seven tales from very different Israelis who all happen to live at 48 Herzl street.

CONNECT ISRAEL

Connect Israel is a lifelong program that aims to bridge the gap between American Jews and Israelis through business, creative teamwork, and developing personal relationships.

THE i CENTER

Television shows offer unique perspectives into Israeli society and culture. With educational guides provided by the iCenter, gathering with your family around the T v just got a lot more meaningful.

THANK ISRAELI SOLDIERS

Thank Israeli s oldiers empowers, embraces, and educates the brave men and women who serve Israel.

Reflection Time

Reflection Time is an opportunity to pause, slow down, and internalize your learning. Some of the Israeli women on your bus might join you. What can you learn from them?

1. It takes courage and conviction to commit to the Momentum experience. What “holy chutzpah” did it take for you to be here?

2. How can the Jewish value of Azut d'Kedushah inspire you to boldly step out of your comfort zone in the months to come?

WELCOME TO TZFAT

Want to learn more about Tzfat, the birthplace of Kabbalah?

Watch this short video.

TZFAT LEARN MORE

PEACE AND WHOLENEss IN THE HOME

Shalom Bayit

PEACE AND WHOLENEss IN THE HOME

Shalom Bayit

Home is a place to strive for harmony. The word shalom (peace) shares a root with shalem, the Hebrew word for wholeness.

My thoughts on this session

Love

your neighbor as yourself. Rabbi Akiva says that this is the greatest teaching of the Torah.

—MidrashSifraKedoshim, 4:11

IN PURsUIT OF PEACEFUL RELATIONsHIPs

BIG IDEAS TO BRING HOME

Relationship struggles are opportunities for us to grow. We grow not through the good qualities of our family members but through their challenging qualities.

In relationships, actions speak louder than words.

We are meant to BOND in a families – "Is what I'm about to say or do going to bring us closer or further apart?”

Relationships are strengthened when you focus on the virtues of another and identify them with those virtues.

Love is a choice. The more you give, the more you love.

Wisdom I can bring home with me

Immersing in the mikvah, a pool of naturally occurring freshwater, is among the most beautiful and intimate of Jewish practices. There are many reasons why one might immerse — as part of the process of converting to Judaism, before getting married, or to mark the cycle of menstruation. In some communities it is customary to immerse every day, every Friday before Shabbat, or every year before Yom Kippur. Interested in learning more? Speak with your Community Leader or Momentum Educator, or reach out to the mikvah closest to you when you return home.

Reflection Time

Reflection Time is an opportunity to pause, slow down, and internalize your learning. Some of the Israeli women on your bus might join you. What can you learn from them?

1. Which of your traits do you think are the most challenging to your pursuit of shalom bayit?

2. Can you imagine carving out a one-minute daily pause, reflection, or meditation that might be helpful to you as you work on this trait? What might that practice look like?

The Learning Continues with the Year of Growth: Shalom Bayit, Peace and Wholeness in the Home, p. 67.

WELCOME TO JERUSALEM

Want to learn more about Jerusalem? Watch this short video.

JERUsALEM LEARN MORE

FAITHFULNEss AND TRUsT

EMUNAH

HUMAN DIGNITY

KEVOD HABRIYOT

GENEROsITY

CHESED AND TZEDAKAH

FAITHFULNEss AND TRUsT Emunah

A relationship with God can anchor us in every aspect of our life in the present, and can drive us toward the future.

My thoughts on this session

TASTE OF TORAH:

Trust in God and do good; abide with reverence on the land and cherish faithfulness and trust.

— Psalms: 37:3

THE POWER OF PRAYER

Prayer is talking to God, in any language, in any place.

Talking to God can be scripted or unscripted; both are ways to connect to the Divine.

The Hebrew word for prayer is lehitpalel, means to selfexamine. The essence of prayer is examining what we want, why we want it, and why it would be good for us.

Prayer has a meditative quality that allows space for new clarity.

If you haven't prayed in a while (or ever) that's okay. There is no wrong way to pray. When you walk up to the Wall, just say, "Hi. It's me." That's all the introduction you need.

Wisdom

I can bring home with me

The Learning Continues with the Year of Growth: Awakening Your soul: Emunah, Faithfulness and Trust, p. 97.

Want to explore the building blocks of Jewish prayer?

YAD vAsHEM REMEMBERING THE PAsT, sHAPING THE FUTURE

Reflection Time

Reflection Time is an opportunity to pause, slow down, and internalize your learning. Some of the Israeli women on your bus might join you. What can you learn from them?

1. What is coming up for you here at Yad vashem? What are you feeling? What do imagine taking with you from this experience?

2. How, if at all, has the shoah affected you and your family?

If the experience at Yad vashem inspired you, we invite you to join Zikaron Basalon (Memories in the Living Room) and take action for commemorating the Holocaust.

For more information: www.zikaronbasalon.org | global@zikaronbasalon.org.

HUMAN DIGNITY

Kevod Habriyot

Each person is made in God’s image, infinitely valuable and deserving of our dignity.

My thoughts on this session

TASTE OF TORAH:

Human beings see only what is visible, but God sees into the heart.

— I Samuel 16:7

RECLAIMING OUR DIGNITY

BIG IDEAS TO BRING HOME

We have an inherent dignity because we were created in the Image of the Creator. We contain a spark of deep holiness.

Dignity is not attached to productivity or outside achievement. It is definitely not attached to our physical appearance.

You are a soul being carried in a host body. When you beautify your soulfulness and connect to your internality you connect to what is eternal about you.

Not being enough is a deeply rooted fear. When we don't embrace our inherent worthiness, we 'hustle for it' outside of ourselves.

In Jewish thought something is only called beautiful if the inside and the outside are aligned. Strive for beauty through a spiritual and physical alignment.

It is a priceless gift to your child(ren) to model living with awareness of your dignity.

Wisdom I can bring home with me

The Learning Continues with the Year of Growth: Rising with Gravitas: Kevod Habriyot, Human Dignity, p. 209.

DIsCONNECT TO CONNECT: sHABBAT

BIG IDEAS TO BRING HOME

Disconnec t in order to connect more deeply.

Stop creating to remember that you are not The Creator.

We are human beings not human DOINGS.

Jewish life embraces more than productivity. It celebrates the present of being present.

Consider how you can make Shabbat a joyful delight, a rejuvenating pause.

Shabbat is not all or nothing at all.

EXPLORING sHABBAT

Looking for Shabbat blessings and wisdom? Check out “Kindle Joy - The Magic of Shabbat” on p. 71 in your copy of the Momentum prayer companion Soul Full: GatewaystoJewishPrayer.

Created by Momentum co-founder Jeanie Milbauer, Oneg helps you access the joy and beauty of Shabbat through modern ritual objects and guiding materials. Use code Momentum2023 for 30% off our curated Shabbat Box or 20% off individual items. www.oneghome.com

End your week with intention with a range of print and audio resources that will elevate your Shabbat dinner table. OneTable also helps young adults connect and celebrate Friday night. Be sure to share this opportunity with the 20- and 30-somethings in your life! onetable.org

YOUR GUIDE TO A MAGICAL sHABBAT IN IsRAEL

OUR SHABBAT JOURNEY BEGINS ON FRIDAY EVENING

Join in our preShabbat concert

Light candles to signal the start of Shabbat

Visit the Kotel for song, dance, and prayer

Shabbat dinner:

• Sing Shalom Aleichem

• Blessing for the Children

• Recite the Kiddush (blessing over the wine)

• Handwashing and the Hamotzi (blessing over the bread)

• The Birkat Hamazon (blessing after eating) expresses gratitude after our meal

First, unwind from the weekday frenzy. Unplug from the week and look forward to this day of SHABBAT SHALOM!

OPPORTUNITIES OF SHABBAT

Learn, reflect and process with inspiring classes

Enjoy an authentic Shabbat lunch with a local family Get Shabbat inspiration from your new books Soul Full and Year of Growth

Take in this awesome and unique experience

AS SHABBAT COMES TO AN END

Enjoy a light third meal

The Havdalah ritual invites you to bring the light, scent, and taste of Shabbat into your week

SHAUVA TOV!

HAVE A GOOD WEEK!

GENEROsITY

Generosity – Chesed and Tzedakah

Children have unique souls and are not a "second coming" of us, our goals, or our dreams.

Children hold up a mirror to our foibles and what we disown in ourselves. That which makes us crazy is often a disowned quality within ourselves.

Don’t withdraw love and affection when one must (sometimes) withdraw approval.

The best way to raise a mensch is to BE a mensch. The best way to teach values to our children is to be an example and live those values ourselves. Engage your children from early on in your family's tzedakah giving.

We have different roles at different stages of parenting: When children are young, we are the Director. When they are teenagers, we are the Supervisor. When they are grown, we are the Consultant.

As parents, when you can, open the channels of connection between grandparents and grandchildren. Family stories and relationships that span the generations gives them deep roots from which to grow.

BIG IDEAS TO BRING HOME

Acts of kindness and honor uphold our world.

WELCOME TO THE MASADA

Want to learn more about the Masada? Watch this short video.

MAsADA AND THE DEAD sEA LEARN

MORE

UNITY AND MUTUAL REsPONsIBILITY

ACHDUT AND AREYVUT

GRATITUDE

HAKARAT HATOV

UNITY AND MUTUAL REsPONsIBILITY Achdut and Areyvut

We are all interconnected and responsible for one another.

My thoughts on this session

TASTE OF TORAH:

All Israel is responsible for one another.

—BabylonianTalmud, Shavuot 39a

The Learning Continues with the Year of Growth: Igniting YOUnity: Achdut, Unity and Mutual Responsibility, p. 179.

EMBRACING UNITY WITHOUT UNIFORMITY Is A RECIPE FOR PEACE

BIG IDEAS TO BRING HOME

Love and acceptance does not always mean approval. One can disagree profoundly without withdrawing love.

Our nation merited to receive Torah at Mt Sinai because we were like one person with one heart. And yet we were different tribes with different ways.

The Jewish canon is filled with examples of different paths to finding God’s ultimate truth.

Unity and Mutual responsibility is easier when we recognize how interconnected we truly are.

We received Torah in the desert because the desert is ownerless....and Torah belongs to everyone.

In family life, even when it is dysfunctional, we recognize our interdependence and show up for one another.

Wisdom I can bring home with me

Reflection Time

Reflection Time is an opportunity to pause, slow down, and internalize your learning. Some of the Israeli women on your bus might join you. What can you learn from them?

1. share a place in your family, workplace, or community where you see an opportunity to generate unity.

2. How might you contribute to this work? Who could be your allies and help you stay accountable?

BACK TO JERUsALEM FOR CLOSURE

GRATITUDE

Hakarat Hatov

Acknowledging and appreciating the good in others, ourselves, and our blessings.

My thoughts on this session

Give thanks to God for God is good; God’s loving kindness endures forever.

— Psalms 107:1

BRINGING YOUR MOMENTUM HOME

With your heart full of gratitude for your many blessings, you are ready to channel your growth and inspiration in ways that impact yourself, your family, and your community.

"Show, don't tell." Transform the inspiration of this trip into the 'perspiration' of practice! Change takes time and effort.

You are beautiful and loved by God. You have a unique mission to achieve in this world.

Have deep gratitude for your blessings and carry yourself with this knowledge. This is called leading by attraction rather than promotion.

Start small. Plant seeds for the changes you wish to see in yourself and in those you love. Remember to water them with a watering can not a fire hose!

Write your goal and how you’ll know that you reached it. Share it with your sisters. Be allies for each other.

Be grateful for the Jewish values you have learned and name them as you live them. Let those who were not with you learn by your example

The Learning Continues with the Year of Growth: Getting Great at Being Grateful: Hakarat HaTov, Gratitude, p. 155.

SELF: What goals are you brining home for your own growth? What one easy thing can you do when you get home to prepare you to make the most of your yearlong journey?

FAMILY: What goals are you bringing home for your family? How do you want your home to evolve and your family to grow as a result of this experience?

COMMUNITY: What aspirations are you bringing home for your Jewish community? How do you want to take action and become more engaged?

THE IsRAEL EXPERIENCE

USEFUL INFORMATION

Of the places you have visited in Israel, which have left the deepest mark?

Which images and impressions from these experiences would you like to share with family and friends?

When and where in Israel have you felt most at home?

MOMENTUM EDUCATORs

Lori Palatnik

Lori Palatnik is a Momentum Educator and the Founding Director of Momentum. A world-renowned speaker, writer, and media personality, Lori has authored four books: Friday Night and Beyond, Gossip, Remember My Soul, and Turn Your Husband Into Your Soul Mate. Lori was named one of ten “Women to Watch” by Jewish Women International, one of the “Most Outstanding Jewish American Women of Our Time” by Hadassah, and was included in the Izzy “Global Jewish 100” list for advancing Jewish culture. In 2020, Lori was selected to light the “Diaspora” torch at the national ceremony for Israel’s 72nd Independence Day.

Adrienne Gold Davis

Adrienne is a Momentum Educator Adrienne Gold Davis is the Director of Experience and Engagement for Momentum and an international Jewish educator. She was a Canadian tv personality specializing in fashion, style, and beauty before falling in love with all things Jewish and making a major career pivot. She spent 15 years as a senior lecturer and community liaison for The Village Shul in Toronto before joining the Momentum team. Today she also hosts a toprated podcast (Rise and Shine with Adrienne Gold Davis) and leads multiple trips annually for Momentum. She's been married for over 30 years and has two grown sons.

Dasee Berkowitz

Dasee Berkowitz is a Jewish educator, facilitator, and writer with a focus on bringing a Jewish spiritual lens to family life. Her book, BecomingaSoulfulParent: Apathtothewisdomwithin (Kasva Press: 2021) was a Jewish Book Council finalist and has inspired scores of clergy and Jewish educators throughout North America to bring her unique approach to parent education to their communities. As a facilitator, Dasee currently works with organizational leaders to create the work cultures they want by focusing on interpersonal communication. Dasee is delighted to serve as a Momentum educator. She lives in Jerusalem with her husband and three children.

Deborah Gilboa, MD

Resilience expert, Deborah Gilboa, MD, (aka “Dr. G”) works with families, educators, executives, and businesses to identify the mindset and strategies to turn stress to an advantage. She is a leading media personality seen regularly on TODAY, Good Morning America and is the Resilience Expert for The Doctors. She is also featured frequently in the Washington Post, The New York Times, Huffington Post, and countless other digital and print outlets. Dr. G is board certified attending family physician and is fluent in American Sign Language. She lives in Pittsburgh with her four boys.

Eve Levy

Eve Levy is a Momentum Educator. Her passion is helping Jewish women find their unique light, connect to their Judaism in a way that is meaningful to them, and to help guide women along their spiritual journeys. Taking women to Israel to share her love of the land and of the Jewish people is her favorite work. Eve created and leads powerful women's trips called The Poland-Israel Journey which are very dear to her soul, being a granddaughter of four Holocaust survivors.

Ianna Raim

Ianna is a Momentum Educator and a seasoned professional executive and leadership coach. As a Harvard trained MBA and proficient speaker, Ianna has delivered motivational and strategy presentations all over the world.

Active in her community, Ianna has worked as a facilitator for the Greater Miami Jewish Federation and NCSY and is a longstanding board member of the Young Israel of Bal Harbor.

Since becoming involved with MOMentum, Ianna has enjoyed leading Israel trips, local retreats, and online educational initiatives. Ianna is married and lives in Bay Harbor, Florida. She is the proud mother of 4 girls.

Jael Toledo

Jael Toledo is a marriage family therapist, author of a series of books, and a motivational speaker. Jael finds finds meaning in merging both psychology and Jewish wisdom. She specializes in women’s mental health throughout all transitions in life. Jael was born in the US, raised in Colombia, completed her military service in Israel, finished both her bachelor's degree in Psychology and master's degree in marriage and family therapy. She settled down in Miami, a city she calls home today. Her path has made her a mother of three, a wife, a friend, an entrepreneur, a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a Momentum sister. Like so many other women, Jael is still seeking balance within the many different roles and versions of herself in daily life.

Java sauer

After turning to a life of observant Judaism in 2002, Java Sauer decided to dedicate herself to sharing the richness and wisdom of Torah with other Jews. Over the past 18 years, Java has realized this dream, speaking in Jewish communities and schools all over Latin America with her characteristic charisma and passion. For 13 of those years, Java served as a rebitzen and teacher in Aish Chile, creating and directing many educational projects for children of all ages, college students and adults. Currently, Java and her husband continue their outreach work in Mexico City as rabbi and rebetzin for the Ashkenazi community at Yavne school and synagogue. What Java loves most about her work is showing respect, love and empathy as a counselor and spiritual guide for women in her congregation and around the Latino world.

Mariacha Drai

Mariacha Drai is a Momentum educator who began her career as an engineer in Israel. She then trained at the Ofakim Seminary, studying biblical texts and commentaries and continued her learning in the teachings of Hassidut. After returning to France, Mariacha dedicated herself to her passion of teaching Torah and enhancing the Jewish identity of those around her.

Mariacha teaches women of all ages and spiritual levels. She is a rabbanit, a family therapist, a lecturer at conferences and seminars and is a proud mother of 6.

Nili Couzens

Nili Couzens is an international motivational speaker and Jewish educator who has lived in the US, South Africa, and Israel. Nili was the Founding Director of Jewish Life Seminars and also served as the Director of the Women’s Division in Philadelphia for 17 years. Nili has been married for 24 years. She has six children and two grandchildren. Nili lives in Israel, and is a Momentum Edu cator.

Ruchi Koval

Ruchi Koval is a Momentum Educator and the co-founder and Associate Director of Congregation JFX, an innovative community in Cleveland, Ohio. She has been a Jewish educator for two decades, leading self-development groups for adults and teens, and mentoring educators around the world. Ruchi has authored two books, “Conversations with God” and “Soul Construction” and is a certified parenting coach, motivational speaker, musician, author, and mother of seven.

shulamit Kopeliovich

Shulamit Kopeliovich is a Momentum Educator and she made aliyah from Russia to Israel in 1995. She has four children. Shulamit volunteers as an informal educator in the Machanaim community, Maale Adumim, teaching Judaism to Russian speakers who have been disconnected from the Jewish heritage for several generations. Shulamit holds a PhD in English Linguistics, and works at Herzog Teachers' College.

Dr. Zohar Raviv

Dr. Zohar Raviv is an internationally acclaimed Jewish thought-leader and educator who currently serves as the International Vice President of Educational Strategy for TaglitBirthright Israel. Raviv is a leading voice in some of the global paradigm shifts concerning contemporary Jewish identity, Israel-world Jewry relations and the overall mandate of Jewish education in the 21st century. Raviv was the recipient of the 2015 Bernard Reisman Award for Professional Excellence from the Hornstein Jewish Professional Leadership Program at Brandeis University, where he was recognized as “One of the most influential Jewish educators in the world.”

Dead Sea

Golan Heights

ShderotShezar

HEBREW PHRAsEs

sONGs TO sING AND sHARE

Eitz chayim hee lamachazikim bah, v'tomcheha me’ushar.

Deracheha darchei noam v'chol netivoteha shalom.

It is a tree of life for those who hold fast to it, and those who uphold it are happy.

If only we all would see the sweetness of our living tree. Holding with joy, you and me. Its paths are peaceful, shalom.1

Kol ha’olam kulo gesher tzar me'od (x3).

Veha'ikar

lo lefached klal.

The whole world is a very narrow bridge. And the main thing is not to fear.

Lo alecha ham’lacha ligmor (x2).

Velo ata ben chorin levatel mimena velo ata ben chorin.

It is not your duty to complete the work. But neither are you free to desist from it.

1 Adapted from Uncle Moishy.

SPOTIFY PLAYLIST OF THE SONGS

Od yavo shalom aleinu ve'al kulam!

Salaam, aleinu ve'al kol ha'olam, salaam, salaam.

Peace'll come upon us and on everyone!

Salaam,2 On us and on the whole world.

How good and pleasant it is when brothers/ sisters dwell together.

Oseh shalom bimromav

Hu ya’aseh shalom aleinu

Ya’aseh shalom, shalom aleinu ve’al kol Yisrael.

David Melech Yisrael chai chai v’kayam!

Siman tov u’mazal tov yehai lanu ulchol Yisrael.

Amen.

ויָמוֹרְמִבּ םוֹלָשָׁ הֶשִׂוֹע וּניֵלָע םוֹלָשָׁ הֶשֲִׂעַי אוּה וּרְמִאְו לֵאָרְשִִׂי לָכָּ לַעְו ןֵמאָ הֶשֲִׂעַי ,םוֹלָשָׁ הֶשֲִׂעַי םוֹלָשָׁ לָכָּ לַעְו וּניֵלָע םוֹלָשָׁ .לֵאָרְשִִׂי FAITHFULNESS AND TRUST

לֵאָרשְִׂי ךֶלֶמ דִוָד !םָיַקְו יַח יַח

Ve'ahavta

l'reiacha kamocha.

klal

Ushavtem mayim besasson

mimainei hayeshua (x2).

Draw water joyfully from the waters of salvation.

Lema'an achai vereiai

adabrah na shalom bach.

Lema'an beit Hashem Elokeinu avaksha tov lach.

Because we are sisters and friends,3 because we're together again, open your heart and please let me in, let the journey begin.

יָעֵרְו יַחאַ ןַעַמְל ךָבּ םוֹלָשָׁ אָנּ הָרְבַּדֲא וּניֵהוֹלֱא ׳ה תיֵבּ ןַעַמְל .ךָל בוֹט הָשְָׁקַבֲא

Yachad (x8)

kulam kedushah lecha yeshaleshu.

Am Yisrael chai, od Avinu chai!

3 Momentum English by Dena Levie, Ricka Razel, and Annie Orenstein.

דַחַֽי הָשֻּׁדְק םָלָֻּ כָּ .וּשָׁלָּשְָׁי ךְל

יַח לֵאָרְשִִׂי םַע .יַח וּניִבאָ דוֹע

SPOTIFY PLAYLIST OF THE SONGS

Tov l’hodot la’Hashem, ulezamer l’shimcha

elyon, lehagid baboker chasdecha v’emunatcha baleylot!

It is good to give thanks to Hashem, and to sing to His name on high: to speak in the morning of His kindness, and in the evening of His faithfulness!

Ivdu et Hashem

Ivdu et Hashem besimcha bo'u lefanav birnana.

Hallelu, hallelu, hallelu, kol hanshama tehallel Ya, Halleluyah, Halleluyah.

Serve God with happiness, come before God with joy.

Praise, praise, praise, let all that breathes praise God! Halleluyah!

Leshana haba’ah b’Yerushalayim. Next

Yerushalayim shel zahav veshel nechoshet veshel or, halo lekol shirayich ani kinor.

Jerusalem of gold, and of bronze, and of light; behold, I am a violin for all your songs.

HELPFUL TRIP TIPs

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE

Police: . . . . . . . . . . Dial 100

Ambulance: . . . . . Dial 101

Fire Brigade: . . . . . Dial 102

MONEY

The NIS (New Israeli Shekel, or simply the shekel) operates on the decimal system. Before or during your trip, go to www.xe.com to check the current rate of exchange.

TIPPING

In restaurants, check the bill to see if service is included (usually it is not). If not, 12–15% is a good amount to tip. It is accepted practice to tip hotel staff, your tour guide, and tour bus driver. Before you leave, Momentum collects your tips for bus drivers, tour guides, hotel staff, and all others who serve you during the scheduled programming. Your Community Leader or Bus Leader can advise on amounts to give.

TAX

There is 17% value added tax (VAT) on most goods and services in Israel. Tax is always included in the price. Upon making a purchase of $100 or more at a gift store that has an agreement with the VAT authorities, you should fill out a form at the store and have it stamped there. You will be eligible, upon presenting the form and the item at the airport, for a 17% refund prior to departure.

CREDIT CARD

You can pay with your credit card almost everywhere, but usually only for 20 shekels and up (so make sure you have cash with you). In the shuk (open-air market), it's better to pay cash. In general, it’s better to pay with cash, because you’ll pay a fee every time you swipe your credit card.

ELECTRONIC APPLIANCES IN ISRAEL

The electric current in Israel is 220 volts AC, single phase, 50 Hertz. Electric shavers, traveling irons, and other small appliances require adaptors and/or converters.

DRINKING WATER

Drink plenty of fluids so that you don’t dehydrate. Water in Israel is of good quality and suitable for drinking. Bottled natural spring water is available everywhere. Your bus drivers will have bottled water for sale on the buses.

CLOTHING

Dress is informal, so bring casual clothes. Bring a light jacket, as you may be in different areas of the country on the same day, or indoors with air-conditioning. Dress in layers. Modest clothing is required for most holy sites.

THE JOURNEY CONTINUEs LEARNING AND CONNECTION FOR A LIFETIME

"In the life of the spirit, there is no ending that is not a beginning."

Henrietta Szold

The world's largest social network for Jewish women

Meet your Momentum sisters on Yomm, and continue your Jewish learning, self exploration, and meaningful conversations with other Jewish women around the world.

Yomm is a global community of Jewish women invested in daily elevation and growth. In just a few minutes a day, the app reinvigorates you with Jewish learning, real conversations, and genuine connections that keep the transformative energy of your Israel trip alive. Yomm helps you find the support and encouragement you need to take action and live each day to the fullest.

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Google Play Apple store

MORE FROM MOMENTUM

Build on your “momentum!” Join us on a Momentum Journey; explore Momentum Living, our media hub; or take part in a Momentum Learning educational experience. We look forward to the many ways we will gather, learn, and grow together in the future.

Momentum Podcasts

Perfect for when you’re on the go or multitasking, this audio guidance taps into the soul, activates the mind, and leads individuals to take action.

Explore uplifting podcasts from Momentum Founding Director Lori Palatnik, and Momentum Educators Adrienne Gold Davis, Nili Couzens, Charlie Harary, Ruchi Koval and Jael Toledo: https://momentumunlimited.org/all-podcast-series/

THE MOMENTUM YEARLONG JOURNEY

A Revitalizing Year of Self-Discovery - t he Momentum Yearlong Journey empowers women to connect to Jewish values, engage with Israel, take action, and foster unity without uniformity.

The Journey Continues

Bring the inspiration home to families

Build enduring relationships and a global sisterhood

Encourage husbands to go to Israel on MoMENtum Men’s Trip

Continue the learning and growth through weekly and monthly classes, webinars, and gatherings with your partner organizations

Grow as leaders

Choose Jewish engagement for children

Take action in the community

Take advantage of Momentum podcasts and the Yomm app.

REsOURCEs FOR FURTHER IsRAEL LEARNING

The iCenter – The i-Center offers learner-centered resources that feature the diversity of voices in Israeli life and draw on genuine Israeli culture.

https://theicenter.org

OpenDor Media brings Jewish ideas, values, and stories to life through quality filmmaking, and delivers them to a global audience of millions using today’s most popular and far-reaching digital platforms.

https://opendormedia.org/

Israel21c: This website offers more than 10,000 originally researched and produced articles, videos, images, and blogs by some of Israel’s leading journalists. www.israel21c.org

Vibe Israel Vibe Israel offers keynote presentations, custom workshops, and expert master classes, either virtual or offline, about how to tell Israel’s story to the world. vibeisrael.com

StandWithUs: StandWithUs is an international non-profit that uses cutting-edge print materials, speakers, programs, conferences, missions to Israel, social media, educational videos, and other online resources to tell the story of Israel's inspiring achievements and ongoing challenges. standwithus.com

Center for Israel Education: The Center works to promote the ongoing concept that Israel’s historical presence is integral and vital to modern Jewish and non-Jewish identities, providing materials and trustworthy sources to engage with others about modern Israel. israeled.org

MAKOM: An initiative of the Jewish Agency for Israel that develops educational resources to embrace the vibrant complexity of Israel. makomisrael.org

HATIK vAH

HEBREW NAMEs

For those of you choosing a Hebrew name to receive at our Naming Ceremony, here is a list of possibilities.

Ariella

Ariella means "lioness of God." The variant form "Ariel" is another name for Jerusalem and, specifically, the altar in the Holy Temple (Ezekiel 43:15). (another variationArielle)

Atara

Atara means "crown." It is sometimes used for naming someone after a Kreindel, the Yiddish for "crown.".

Avigail

Avigail means "father's joy." Avigail was one of King David's wives (I Samuel 25:42). (variations: Abigail, Avigayil)

Avital

Avital was another of King David's wives (II Samuel 3:4). Avital means "father of dew," referring to God as sustainer.

Ayelet

Ayelet means "musical instrument," as in Psalms 22:1. (variation: Ayala, meaning "doe")

Bina

Bina means "understanding," "intelligence," "wisdom."

Bracha

Bracha means “blessing.”

Chana

Chana means "grace." This name is associated with the ability to create beautiful prayers: Chana appears in the Bible as praying to God and then giving birth to the prophet Samuel (I Samuel1) (variant spellings: Hana, Hannah)

Chagit

Chagit means "festive," "celebration." Chagit is another of King David's wives (II Samuel 3:4). (variant spelling: Hagit)

Daniella

Daniella means "God is my judge."

Devorah

Devorah means "to speak kind words." Devorah appears in the Bible as the great prophetess and judge who led a revolt against the Canaanite king (see Judges).

Dalia

Dalia is a type of flower. A variant form of the name appears in the Bible, in Ezra 2:60.

Esther

Esther means "hidden" in Hebrew, and "star" in Persian. Esther is the heroine who saved the Jewish people. Her story is told in the Book of Esther.

Eliana

Eliana means "my God has answered me."

Gavriella

Gavriella means "God is my strength." (variation: Gabriella)

Gila

Gila means "joy." In Kabbalah, Gila means "to reveal God," which is a great source of joy.

Hadar

Hadar means "splendid," "ornamented," "beautiful."

Ilana

Ilana means "tree." In Kabbalah, the numeric value of Ilana (96) equals the Hebrew term for "throne of God." (variations: Elana, Ilanit)

Keila

Keila is a Yiddish name derived from the Hebrew word "keli," which means "vessel." A talented person is often referred to as "Keli" – a complete vessel, capable of performing great things. (variation: Kayla)

Liat

Liat means “you are Mine (i.e., God's).”

Liora

Liora means "I have light." (variation: Lior)

Meira

Meira means "one who gives light." A variant form,Miri, is a nickname for Miriam.

Michal

Michal means "Who is like God?" Michal was King Saul's daughter (I Samuel 14:49) and the first wife of King David (I Samuel 18:27).

Miriam

Miriam is a biblical heroine and prophetess who is central to the Exodus story.

Nechama

Nechama means "comfort."

Noa

Noa means "to tremble or shake." The biblical Noa appears was one of the daughters of Tzelofchad. (Numbers 26:33)

Naomi

Naomi means "pleasant." The biblical Naomi was the motherin-law of and inspiration for Ruth, as recorded in the Book of Ruth.

Ora

Ora means "light." (variation: Orit)

Orli

Orli means "I have light."

(variation: Orly)

Penina

Penina means "pearl." The biblical Penina was Elkanah’s wife (see I Samuel 1). In Kabbalah, Penina is related to the word penimi, meaning "inner.”

Rachel

A rachel in Hebrew is a ewe, a symbol of purity. The biblical Rachel appears is one of the four matriarchs, the favored wife of Jacob..

Rina

Rina means "joy." (variation: Rinat)

Rivka

The biblical Rivka appears is one of the four matriarchs, the wife of Isaac and the mother of Jacob. Rivka was known for her great kindness.

Ruth

Ruth means "sweet and pleasant."

The biblical Ruth was a righteous convert and ancestor of King David, as recorded in the Book of Ruth. (variations: Rut, Rus)

Sarah

Sarah means "princess." The biblical Sarah was a great prophet, the first of the matriarchs , the wife of Abraham and mother of Isaac. (Genesis 17:15) (variations: Sari, Sarit, Sarita)

Shalva

Shalva means “tranquility.”

Sharon

Sharon is a region in Israel, known for being especially plentiful and nourishing. (see the commentary Metzudat Tzion on Isaiah 33:9)

(variations: Sharona, Sharonit)

Shayna

Shayna means “beautiful” in Yiddish.

Shira

Shira means "song" in Hebrew.

Talia

Talia means "dew from God." In Kabbalah, Tal signifies Divine nourishment in a hidden manner, like dew that descends unseen to water the plants.

Tamar

Tamar means "palm tree" and denotes righteousness. The Tamar was the wife of Judah and ancestor of King David. (Genesis 38:6)

Tikva Tikva means "hope."

Tova

Tova means "goodness."

Yael

Yael means both "ascend" and "ibex." The biblical Yael was the heroine who saved the Jewish people by bravely killing the enemy general Sisera. (Judges 4) (variations: Jael, Yaela)

Yehudit

Yehudit means "grateful."

Yehudit was a heroine of the Hanukkah story; she bravely killed the enemy general Holofernes. (variation: Judith)

MOMENTUM IMPACT sTORIEs

Inspiring ways Momentum participants are taking action

Kalkidan (Mimi) Ezra, Portland, OR

My first Momentum trip to Israel was in 2015. That trip helped me raise my kids with Jewish values and led me to engage in the Jewish community in Portland. In 2022, I brought my first group of women to Israel as a Community Leader. Leading the trip was an incredible experience for me personally and for each of the women who participated in this life-changing journey. Choosing to take a chance to lead my own Momentum trip has also led to the creation of something truly special to me. While in Israel, two of my participants approached me on a mission to support Ethiopian people. When I heard this, I jumped with excitement. Fourteen years ago, my youngest sister, Liyou, passed away due to a heart condition in Ethiopia. Ever since, I always wanted to do tikkun olam in honor of Liyou’s memory. I shared this with my participants and the Liyou Foundation was quickly born on our Momentum journey. We are now about to start fundraising for a trip to Ethiopia, where we will be supplying medical equipment and educational materials for needy communities.

Leading these women in a Momentum’s Yearlong Journey has impacted me in a major way and I am already planning to help more Portland women experience Momentum.

Ethel Yosifon

Ethel Yosifon and her fellow Momentum sisters launched Parents with Meaning, a course for Israeli mothers that provides Jewish guidance on parenting, marriage, and life. With her background in training, Ethel handled all of the course’s logistics. Forty women attended the course and explored how to model Jewish values for their children.

Heather

Levanah Lieber

On a sun-drenched mountaintop in Israel, Heather Lieber was offered the opportunity to choose a Hebrew name. After careful consideration, she selected Levanah, meaning “moon,” to reflect her reverence for the natural world. Heather’s new Hebrew name changed the course of her life forever. Upon her return, she founded Levanah Farm, where she turns her love of nature into action every day through regenerative farming and sustainability –all informed by Jewish wisdom and ancient agricultural practices.

Raquel

Bibas

Inspired by Momentum, Raquel Bibas created “Israel Jazz and Soul,” a Madrid-based event aimed at combatting the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement (BDS) through Israel education. The event featured a jazz performance, as well as representatives from various Israel organizations who shared positive messages about Israel to almost two hundred community members, including Israel’s ambassador to Spain.

Luba and Lara

After Momentum, an Israeli participant, Luba Bar-Sef, and a Russian participant, Lara Troyanovsky, felt inspired to share Jewish wisdom with Russian speakers throughout the world. Together, they launched Torah Quest, a video blog that highlights wisdom from the weekly Torah portion in Russian. The videos have reached thousands of viewers around the world.

Lynn Oves

Lynn Oves’ first trip to Israel planted the seeds for her engagement with AIPAC. Committed to ensuring a strong US-Israel relationship, Lynn has served as a member of AIPAC’s Executive Council in Atlanta and AIPAC’s National Council, and a cochair of Momentum’s AIPAC Committee. She has also attended twelve AIPAC Policy Conferences.

Luba Bar-Sef

Lara Troyanovsky

Debra schwartz

Three years ago, on the first night of Chanukah, my mom died of a sudden heart attack and my world came crashing down. In the fall of 2022, I participated in the most wonderful trip to Israel with Momentum. I returned home with newfound sisters and a new outlook on my life and my Judaism. Upon my return I started, “Chana’s Light” in memory of my mom. This Chanukah, Chana’s Light, provided thirty families and seniors in need with gift bags filled with electric LED menorahs, dreidels, gelt, and a handwritten card. This year we started small, but we will be expanding our footprint for next Chanukah and beyond.”

Bari Cohen

My SOUL cup has been filled. My intentions for going on this Momentum trip were very personal, and to say they were met is an understatement. While I went on this journey for myself, it would never have been successful without the beautiful women on this trip. The women I met are sisters for life, and I am so thankful they were my shoulder to cry on, my hand-holders, and my belly-laugh partners.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTs

This journal is the work of many talented, idealistic people. It is such a pleasure to work with so many who take joy in connecting Jewish women to their own Jewish journeys and to lifelong connection with the Land of Israel. We must thank the wonderful Momentum Staff for collaborating on this project.

At Momentum, we feel that we are blessed. We must thank God for all the success and good that has brought us on this journey to change the world.

Dr. Ronit Ziv-Kreger, Ruth Baars, Jessica Berkowitz and Jennifer Fechter Editors

Momentum Board of Directors

Deborah Hochberg President

Helen Zalik

Immediate Past Board President

Rachel Chafetz Vice President

Manette Mayberg

VP Institutional Advancement, Trustee, Past Board President, Co-Founder

Connie Lindenauer Treasurer

Rivka Kidron Secretary

Lori Palatnik

Ex Officio, Founding Director

Michelle Leader

Trustee, Co-Founder

Andrea Shlipak Mail Past Board President

Cindy Zitelman

Past Board President, Co-Founder

Stacey Fisher Board Member

Betty Grinstein Board Member

Cheryl Leon Board Member

Jeff Singer Board Member

Sheryl Hartman

Ex Officio, Canada Liaison

Charlie Harary

Ex Officio, Men's Council Liaison