Tammy Dollin will be leading a women’s study trip to Israel October 27-November 6, 2013. This unique trip is designed to explore Israel through the lens of women who are making a difference in religious, cultural, educational, political and military spheres. Says Dollin, “I want to delve deeper into women’s contributions to Judaism and to the Jewish state. Israel is experiencing a revolution in pluralism. Religious and secular communities are impacting one another in unprecedented ways. Women are speaking out with their unique voice, and adding so much to the communal conversation. I want to meet those women and hear their stories.”

We will meet Ruth Calderon, new Knesset member, Talmud professor, who insists that the Talmud is a sacred text that should be studied by all Jews, not just the religious community. We will visit the yeshiva she founded where secular Jews can study sacred text and add their perspectives to the larger Jewish world. We will study the story of Devorah from three different perspectives, with scholars from a secular yeshiva, Bar Ilan University and B’nei Brak. We will join with Women of the Wall as they celebrate 25 years of meeting at the Kotel for Rosh Hodesh prayer. We will hear female artists interpretation of their religious lives through dance, art and learning.

The tour includes challah baking from various cultures, a spa afternoon, jeep tour into the Judean desert with pita baking and belly dancing. It includes community service in a development town, learning about a pluralistic mikvah at Kibbutz Hanaton, and experiencing Shabbat in various traditional and progressive synagogues.

Tammy Dollin is currently Project Director of Ramah in the Rockies. She is married to Rabbi Bruce Dollin, Senior Rabbi at the Hebrew Educational Alliance.

I have long been fascinated by women’s roles in religious Judaism. While I am drawn to traditional religious life, I am also challenged by women’s proscribed roles, which I have found limiting in various times in my own life. I am curious what gives women the courage to make their voices heard. When Judaism fully welcomes women’s voices, we will be a richer Jewish community. The development of Jewish texts and Jewish law has been through the perspective of the Jewish man. Adding women’s voices may be upsetting to some, but I believe necessary for the continued vibrancy of Judaism.”

The trip is open to all women who are interested and is fully kosher and Shabbat observant. Dollin worked intensively with Keshet: The Center for Educational Tourism in Israel to create a unique itinerary to experience Israel in this way. Price is $3,200 for Land and Air, plus additional fuel tax of $820.

Deadline to register with deposit is July 15. Space is limited to 20. Call Tammy with questions, 303.246.1943. Registration can be done online here.