Shannon and Dan Ahlstrom stand on top of Mount Masada in Israel.
Shannon and I had a truly life-changing experience in Israel with the Minneapolis Jewish Federation.
The trip was filled with a variety of experiences that broadened our perspectives and deepened our understanding of the country and its people. We had the privilege of meeting Holocaust survivors on a kibbutz and hearing their stories firsthand. It was a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
We also spent time in a Bedouin village, where we learned about their rich culture and way of life. This experience was eye-opening and gave us a newfound appreciation for the diversity that exists within Israeli society.
One of the most memorable parts of the trip was visiting Yad Vashem and learning about the history of the Holocaust. We had a tour with Batsheva’s sister (Esther) who lives in Israel, and her personal insights and experiences made the visit all the more powerful.
We also had the privilege of touring Har Herzl and meeting with Dr. Yizhar Hess, vice chairman of the World Zionist Organization. His perspective on the challenges facing Israel and the Jewish people was enlightening, and we left with a deeper understanding of the importance of supporting Israel.
The food in Israel was amazing, and we loved spending time with our clergy and community members. We toured Tel Aviv and Jaffa and were struck by the vibrant culture and history of these cities.
Overall, our trip to Israel was a deeply transformative experience that left a lasting impact on us.
Sincerely,
Dan and Shannon Ahlstrom
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