The annual S. Zalman Abramov Lecture on Religion, Pluralism and Democracy in Israel was held on Tuesday, March 13 in the Abramov Library. Professor Amnon Rubinstein, MK, spoke about Basic Laws and the Israeli Constitution before a large audience. Distinguished guests included the High Court Justices, Meir Shamgar and Yitzhak Zamir. Former Jerusalem Mayor, Teddy Kollek also attended.
Dr. Michael Klein Memorial
An evening in memory of Professor Michael Klein was held on February 26 in the Murstein Synagogue. Dr. Klein was a beloved member of the HUC-JIR family, dean of HUC-JIR's Jerusalem School for seventeen years, and Effie Wise Ochs Professor of Biblical Literature. Internationally recognized for his expertise and publications on Targumic literature, he was a guiding light in the growth of HUC-JIR's programs in Israel. Professor Menachem Haran reminisced about Prof. Klein's professional and scholarly achievements. Professor Avigdor Shinan lectured on "The Aramaic Targum: Between "Mishpatim" and "Truma". Family members read poetry and Shoshie Klein led the gathering in singing Israeli folk songs. Elad Klein displayed his art work of his father, sketched and painted during Michael Klein's last hospital stay.
HUC-JIR students celebrate Purim with Ethiopian Families
HUC-JIR first-year students have been volunteering all year long with the Ethiopian-Jewish immigrant community in Mevasseret Zion. On March 12, they hosted the families at a Purim carnival on the HUC campus. There were games, costumes and treats for all involved. Students also prepared "mishloah manot" baskets for needy Jerusalem families for the Purim holiday.