The last two days of the AFSI Mission were action-packed and focused on the south. It started with a visit to Sderot. There they met with a city guide to learn about the remarkable rebirth that has occurred in the city, despite the frequent rocket attacks from Gaza. From Chanukah candles to rock music, all of this can be found in Sderot. They also meet with Rabbi Fendel of the world-famous Hesder Yeshiva in Sderot, which has become a landmark Yeshiva and has contributed greatly to creating the revival of Sderot.
They then traveled on to the picturesque Lachish area where they were met by Dror Vanunu, AFSI’s longtime friend and representative of the former Gush Katif communities. With him and a guide, they explored some of the historic caves in the area.
One highlight was a visit to the very new Gush Katif community of Karmei Katif. David Hatuel, resident of the community, greeted the group in his new home. They saw the groundwork laid for the Karmei Katif synagogue being built in the name of Tali Hatuel and her four children who were murdered in 2004 by Arab terrorists.
On the last day of the mission the group visited the Aleh Negev Nahalat Eran Rehabilitation Village. From their they continued on to the Halutza communities of Shlomit, Neve, and B’nei Netzarim, and ended the day and the mission, in Modiin for their Gala Farewell dinner.
AFSI looks forward to being reunited with our Chizuk friends to celebrate the wonderful occasion of Israel’s statehood, Yom Ha’Atzmaut – Israel’s 70th birthday, on our next Chizuk Mission, April 17-25, 2018.
Plan Now for the next AFSI Chizuk Mission!