Israel & the World

Scenes from the Archives

By Vivian Henoch, Editor myJewishDetroit

April 1, 2013

Did you know that the Detroit Federation sends more people to Israel each year than any other Federation community in North America?

Our strength in numbers goes the distance in building community and lifelong friendships here in Metro Detroit and with the Central Galilee, our home base in Israel where we have partnered for almost 20 years to create personal and enduring connections.

The year was 1993

They called it a “Miracle” Mission. In celebration of Israel’s 45^th Anniversary, Federation launched its first record-breaking, community-wide mission to Israel, 1300 members strong. Those who were there will never forget the sight of El Al’s chartered planes as they landed for the first time ever at Metro Detroit Airport. The rest is history.

Michigan Miracle Mission April 1993 — “We are here.” First steps of an incredible journey: Federation’s first community-wide Michigan Miracle Mission, April 18-28, 1993

April 19, 1993: Joel Tauber in Modi'in with Michigan Miracle Mission — Joel Tauber at the podium in Modi’in with Michigan Miracle Mission, April 19, 1993.

Assembled for an mega event: Michigan Miracle Mission, April 1993 — Michigan Miracle Mission participants, assembled for a “mega” event: front row on the right: Diane Klein, Penny Blumenstein and David Hermelin (of blessed memory).

Women at the Wall: on a Miracle Mission, 1993 — Women at the Wall: on a Miracle Mission I, 1993

A "Bus Group" at the Wall: participants on Federation's first Miracle Mission, 1993 — A “Bus Group” at the Wall: participants on Federation’s first Miracle Mission, 1993

Since that first mega mission, Federation has sponsored five other community-wide missions, including two unforgettable Family Missions to Israel, ranging from 400 to 1,200 participants. Organized and sponsored by the Federation on a regular basis are numerous smaller missions, geared to teens, college students (Community Taglit “Birthright Israel”), young adults, women, adults in the Florence Melton School, and groups participating in Federation’s Annual Campaign and leadership development.

Over the years, thousands upon thousands of photos in Israel have been snapped and treasured. In Archives we look back at a handful below. See anyone you know?