The past year has been extraordinary for our wonderful community, full of promising developments and meaningful progress. A highlight for me was the unforgettable celebration of our Chupah together with many of you. At moments like these, I see the warmth and connection that makes our Kehila so special.
Throughout the past year, I have had the privilege of organising events and developing programmes for our diverse international student population. These initiatives, focused on inclusivity and connection, have laid the foundation for even greater opportunities in the future.
One promising development is the growing support for a ‘Weekly Peulah’ style programme. In collaboration with representatives of Israeli families, we have shared our enthusiasm for enabling children of all ages to participate in cultural activities such as mazoret, rikudim and games. These sessions could be led by madrichim and madrichot from our vibrant international student community. This initiative has enormous potential to strengthen and nurture the next generations of our Kehila.
In addition, we plan to organise monthly meetings throughout Limburg in collaboration with Joods Maatschappelijk Werk Nederland (JMW) and local members. These meetings will focus on building mutual connections, fostering friendships and expanding our shared feelings, growth and unity.
One of our most ambitious projects is the establishment of a Kehila ‘Job Market.’ This initiative is designed to provide meaningful support to our members – by helping those in need and enabling our international students to pursue their professional dreams and consider Maastricht their permanent home. By investing in each other, we can ensure the continued growth and success of our community.
In the religious sphere, we are delighted to announce a groundbreaking project: the reopening of the Mikveh, the first time since the Second World War. This initiative will extend across Limburg, Belgium and Germany, and this facility will be available to anyone who wishes to use it. 1 I recently had a meaningful and inspiring conversation with a representative of JMW, who was genuinely enthusiastic about the incredible development potential of our Kehila.
Our community consists of three large groups:
- Dutch Jews and expats
- Israeli families
- International students
We have a unique opportunity, unlike any other Kehila in the Netherlands: we all share the same desire. In no other community is there such a strong, unified desire to grow together and offer each person and group what they need, regardless of religious, ideological or communal affinities.
It is up to us, with creativity and understanding, to generate opportunities to strengthen our Kehila – a community that, without even planning it, will reach a membership level not seen since before the Second World War!
The Jewish future in Maastricht is bright, and we are privileged to see that future taking shape before our eyes. Let us reach out to one another, meet and connect.
(Board note: this is a fantastic initiative, but its feasibility is far from certain. There are still many hurdles to overcome, not least of which are financial hurdles).
