Beth HaDerech; Messianic Jewish Congregation, Toronto, Canada

Yom HaAtzmaut – יום העצמאות

On May 14, 1948 (5th Iyar), the modern State of Israel declared independence, this year it turned out to be on Mon, 9 May 2011 (6th of Iyyar, 5771). For the first time in almost 1,900 years, the Jewish people had a free and independent homeland in the biblically Promised Land. Every day since that declaration of independence, Israel had been forced to struggle to survive. But Israel has not only survived, it has thrived as a nation. Appropriately, Israelis celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut (יום העצמאות‎ / عيد الاستقلال‎) (Israeli Independence Day) with joyous festivities- parades, picnics, games and speeches. Yom Ha Atzmaut is a day of celebration not only for Israelis. Jews around the world join in because while Israel is the physical homeland of many Jews, it is the spiritual homeland of all Jews. Our Father in Heaven, Rock and Redeemer of the people Israel; Bless the State of Israel, with its promise of redemption. Shield it with Your love; spread over it the shelter of Your peace. Guide its leaders and advisors with Your light and Your truth. Help them with Your good counsel. Strengthen the hands of those who defend our Holy Land. Deliver them; crown their efforts with triumph. Bless the land with peace, and its inhabitants with lasting joy. And let us say: Amen. (translation from Siddur) Dear Friends, From the bottom of our...