The Jewish Innovation
For the past two years, I have led a revolutionary outreach program and a vibrant synagogue, Beit Torat Chaim, in the heart of Indonesia. Our renowned Jakarta congregation serves Jews who hid their Jewish identity for many years. Due to recent political changes, Indonesian Jews no longer have to keep their heritage a secret. For the first time, the descendants of Peruvian and Dutch Jews can embrace the beauty of their rich heritage. My tireless work here marks the stunning revival of Jewish life in the world’s fourth largest country. No rabbinic authority served this country for centuries. Our congregation does not own property. We rent a secure apartment which serves as our vibrant Jewish center for Torah life. Before April 22nd, 2016 I must renew this rental contract. This campaign is devoted to raising the funds necessary to sustain this growing congregation for the coming year.
The Impact
Nearly two years ago I received a call that would change many lives. Leaders of Indonesia’s Jewish community knew that I dedicated my life to reaching out to Jews in the church, and they needed help. Hundreds of people of Jewish descent who were in Churches across Indonesia were willing to gather and study with me for a few days. They were well aware of their Jewish ancestry and wanted to study with a rabbi who was deeply familiar with Christian teachings. They were ready to hear the “other side” and wanted the truth. We all gathered in Papua’s capital, Jayapura, for three days of intense study of the Jewish Scriptures.
On the final evening, the participants were unanimous: they wanted to reclaim their Jewish heritage. They didn’t want to be in the Church. They wanted a synagogue. Spontaneously, the audience began to sing the familiar Sabbath song “Shalom alaychem.” They wanted to come home. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the room. That is where this spiritual odyssey was sparked. I felt as though I was bearing witness to prophecies that I studied all my life.
No one is certain of how many Jews live on Indonesia’s 17,000 islands. There is little doubt that their numbers can be counted in the thousands. Systematic anti-Semitism in this country’s past forced Jews to hide their identity. They did so by adopting another faith in order to survive. The Indonesian government did not recognize Judaism as a religion. Indonesians are now free to practice Judaism, and I was asked to be their rabbi.
Much has changed over the past two years. Although our synagogue, which is officially recognized by the Indonesian government, is based in Indonesia’s capital, I travel to many other islands, teaching Torah to spiritually hungry souls. Each Shabbat our congregation and new visitors gather for prayers, festive meals, and hours of Torah study. Our flourishing synagogue, Beit Torat Chaim, is located in a secure apartment.
What Will You Do with the Money?
Our synagogue’s rent and maintenance fees are due on the eve of Passover, April 22nd, 2016. It is for this reason that I turn to you for help to support this sacred work. Would you consider giving from what God has given you so that we can sustain and grow Jewish life in place where Torah is now thriving, and Jews are returning to the beauty of their ancient heritage?
Your generous support will make it possible for us to maintain our flourishing synagogue and vital outreach work in Indonesia. Our congregation, Beit Torat Chaim, serves as a spiritual oasis for Jews across Indonesia.
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