"Something I'm Inspired To Do," Says Tuscaloosa Christian
'SOMETHING I'M INSPIRED TO DO,'SAYS TUSCALOOSA CHRISTIAN
One of the fun features of our Birmingham Jewish Federation Update is our "Shirt Stories." The BJF offers complimentary t-shirts that say Alabama in Hebrew to anyone traveling to Israel. (We also have Auburn and UAB shirts as well!) All we ask in return of these travelers is that they send us some impressions for Update and a picture of them wearing their shirts in Israel.
Update recently received the following email and picture from Norman Patrick, one of our Christian Update readers from Tuscaloosa. Norman makes an annual trip to Israel each year. This year he made his trip a little different as he brought along his Alabama in Hebrew shirt to wear while he was there. The following is from Norman:
As I have read the BJF Updates, I have noticed with interest the various stories brought back by those who traveled to Israel and at some point had a picture made with their "special" shirts. I travel annually to Israel and for me travel to Israel is never just a tour or trip. It is something I am inspired to do as a demonstration of my love to the people of Israel.
I am connected with a small Christian organization in Atlanta and travel each year to Israel to do charity work throughout the region for almost two weeks. I love being a part of this and am always excited as each year's journey approaches.
This year, as we prepared to travel up to Jerusalem and make our way to the Western Wall, I donned my "Alabama" shirt. It was quite exciting to be walking through the Old City and hear someone shout "Hey Alabama!" It is good to dwell in unity with my Jewish brothers and sisters.
May God allow me many more opportunities to go and serve the people of Israel. That to me is the ultimate way to show my love instead of just saying it.
Shalom to all my Jewish Friends, Norman Patrick
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If you or anyone you know is planning to travel to Israel please let us know so that we may provide a crimson Alabama, orange Auburn or green UAB shirt with Hebrew. We also are happy to arrange a visit to our Sister City in Israel, Rosh Ha'ayin, as well as opportunities to visit programs in different areas of the country funded by The Birmingham Jewish Federation. Contact Donna Berry at The BJF at donnab@bjf.org or 205-879-0416.
Above photo is of Norman Patrick posing in his Alabama in Hebrew shirt in front of the Western Wall in Jerusalem.
SPEAKING OF CHRISTIAN SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL...
There was an interesting story on CNN this weekend on Christian support for Israel and efforts by Jewish groups to connect with pro-Israel Christians. Featured were two Christian organizations, and individuals, with whom The Birmingham Jewish Federation has connections.
Pastor Michael Stevens of Christians United for Israel (CUFI) recently spoke at a gathering in Birmingham where BJF Executive Director Richard Friedman spoke as well. The gathering was hosted in Birmingham by CUFI.
The story also mentioned the Atlanta-based Vanguard Leadership Group and its executive director, Jarrod Jordan. Jarrod and one of his colleagues was in Birmingham recently for a series of programs sponsored by The BJF.
Everyday in so many ways, The BJF is reaching out to our Christian friends, strengthening our connections with each other and building support for Israel. As always, we thank those who contribute to our BJF Annual Campaign. Your dollars provide the organizational structure, staffing and funding that allow us to do this important work.
Photo is of Darius Jones, left, and Jarrod Jordan. Darius works as the American Israel Public Affairs Committee's (AIPAC) Southeast Regional Outreach Director and Jarrod is the Executive Director of the Vanguard Leadership Group. Both were in Birmingham recently for programs sponsored by The BJF.
FAMILY TREAT WITH THE MACCABEATS
Treat your family to a rollicking evening this holiday season with the Maccabeats! On Sunday, Dec. 11th, at 2 pm, the famous Maccabeats will be making an appearance in Birmingham at Temple Beth-El.
The Maccabeats, an all male a cappella singing group, started at Yeshiva University in 2007. They rose to fame when their Hanukah song "Candlelight" became a Facebook sensation last year garnering over 6 million hits on YouTube. Since then, the group continues to make headlines with its new and creative lyrics.
