Israel Engagement Fellowship
The Past, The Present, The Possible
Temple Shaaray Tefila is excited to announce the opening of its inaugural cohort – November 2026 - May 2027
Applications are now open — space is limited and reserved exclusively for Temple Shaaray Tefila members. Fellows will be admitted in order of application receipt.
Apply Today
About the Fellowship
The Israel Engagement Fellowship is a new opportunity for Shaaray Tefila members to study, learn, and connect around Israel — together.
Why Now?
Temple Shaaray Tefila’s commitment to Israel and Zionism remains a core element of its mission and vision, especially at a time when Progressive Judaism’s relationship with Israel is as complicated and nuanced as ever. Serious engagement with Israel and its people requires knowledge and an understanding of this complexity. Meaningful Israel engagement is enhanced by the development of a more informed point of view and a deeper understanding of the various points of view surrounding issues of critical importance to Israel.
What the Fellowship Offers
Deep, expert knowledge
Leading scholars and practitioners in Israel’s history, politics, and peoplehood — taught at a high level, accessible to all.
Skills to refine opinions and engage with others
We will develop practical tools for conversation on the hardest questions so you can engage with friends, family, and community from a place of confidence.
Multiple perspectives, no political agenda
The fellowship will not endorse one viewpoint. We will explore the complexity of Israel through diverse narratives — because nuance matters more than ever.
Real fellowship
A cohort of fellow Shaaray Tefila congregants who share your curiosity. Every session begins with a communal dinner to connect before the learning.
Who Should Apply?
This fellowship is for Temple Shaaray Tefila members who want to develop greater knowledge about Israel’s history and current reality — and who are ready to engage honestly with the complicated issues Israel faces today and tomorrow.
No prior knowledge required. Genuine curiosity is the only prerequisite.
Schedule and Details
We will meet about twice a month on Monday nights from November through May. Dinner will be provided.
Participation is limited to 40 fellows. Fellows will be accepted in order of application receipt.
Participants are asked to pay $250.00 to enroll in the fellowship with optional support levels of $500 and $1,000 available. All amounts in excess of $250 are charitable contributions.
We are fortunate that the majority of the fellowship’s budget is being provided by a very generous grant from the congregation’s Sesquicentennial Fund. Scholarships are available. Please contact Rabbi Rubin to request financial assistance.
Fellowship Session Schedule and Modules
Printable Summary
Instructor Bios
Apply Today
Questions?
Please contact Rabbi Jill Rubin.
