The Inter Religious Federation for World Peace is a proud friend of the Arava Institute and its visionary devotion to peace and trans-boundary environmentalism.
Here is an appeal from Arava:
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2041 Herr Street, Suite 18, Harrisburg, PA 17103 (866) 312-7282 www.friendsofarava.org |
While it happens rarely, this year the Muslim holiday of Eid al Fitr coincides with the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah. For Muslims, Eid al Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, while, for Jews, Rosh Hashanah makes the beginning of the Jewish new year. But these holy days are less about beginnings and ends as they are about cycles - of life, of seasons, and of our understanding about the world around us.
For many people, their perception of the Middle East rests solely on seeing a single and seemingly endless cycle - a cycle of violence that seems both endless and unchanging.
As we prepare to begin the 15th
year of the Arava Institute, we are gratified to be witnessing a
different cycle, one that begins with bringing a curious, courageous,
and culturally diverse group of students to our campus and ends with a
cadre of young environmental leaders now bound by a common language and
joint purpose ready to become part of a movement of Arava alumni
actively tackling the trans-boundary environmental issues facing their
region and the world.
Throughout the past year, we have seen the continuing results of the cycle that spirals not downward but upward, with Arava alumni in Jordan forming their own non-profit to address cross-border environmental issues, alumni in Israel and Palestine working hand-in-hand with Arava faculty to address trans-boundary water issues, and so much more.
As we celebrate this special and, for many, very spiritual time of year, many of us stop to consider how the story of our lives may be written in the coming year. For the Arava Institute story, it is you who write that book, as this cycle of cooperation and cross-border partnership can only continue and grow through your loyal and growing support.
At this special time of reflection and renewal, please consider how you might continue you own personal efforts to continue that spiral upward and support the Arava Institute's mission to build a future where environmental sustainability and coexistence are part of a common language.
There are many ways to support the important work of the Arava Institute,. Please email our office at [email protected] for instructions on how to make a contribution
Best Wishes,
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