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Hoenlein urges unity in the face of the emerging challenges

In light of recent events: uprisings in the Middle East, the killing of Osama Bin Laden, the murder of the Fogel family in Itamar, Jewish leaders around the world are calling for Jewish unity.

In an interview last week, Malcolm Hoenlein, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, expressed the urgent need for American Jewry to put aside their differences and to focus on acts of unity, to strengthen them in the face of danger following the death of Osama Bin Laden, and the many uprisings in their neighboring countries.

“I was, obviously, very pleased and congratulate all those responsible [for the elimination of Osama bin Laden]…but people can’t be deluded to think this is end of threat. Osama is dead, and he was a key figure, but there is a worldwide network that still threatens the international order. This threat cannot be ignored…Israel and Jews are obvious targets as we repeatedly are…We cannot let our guard down, cannot be lulled into apathy by the elimination of bin Laden, as important and significant as that is.”

Mr. Hoenlein, who has worked with several US Presidents on Middle East affairs, urges American Jewry to put aside their differences at this important time.

“I believe that unity within should be the first priority. History teaches us that it is the one pre-condition to success. If you look at Jewish history, every great achievement, every miracle was a result of the Jews being united. Attempts to divide us based on the detail of what they practice, is detrimental to Judaism and to what sustains us. Any time you can bring Jews of all kinds together for common deliberation and discussion, to [celebrate] what unites us and [lessen] what divides us we realize that the whole is far greater than the sum of its parts.”

Making up just 0.3% of the world’s population, it’s more important than ever for Jews to stand united and proud. Click here to watch the video!

Here’s your chance to do your bit.

A wonderful opportunity for such unity is “One Shabbat“, held this Memorial Day weekend, May 27-29 in Stamford. It’s a unique chance for all Jews to come together for a weekend of inspiration and relaxation. The impressive of array of guest speakers, including Malcolm Hoenlein himself, will give their audience insights into the ‘new’ Middle East, Israel-US relationship and the challenges facing US Jewry, as well as the world-famous Discovery seminar, relationships, marriage and parenting, and personal growth.

Spots at this incredible weekend are limited so confirm your place today at www.oneshabbat.org. Call 212.997.9636. Or email info@oneshabbat.org today.

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