Masa Israel Journey, founded by The Jewish Agency and the government of Israel, launched its 16th programming year Monday at an online opening event attended by thousands of its fellows from countries around the world. Every year, thousands of young Jews arrive in Israel from more than sixty countries to learn, teach, volunteer, and intern in the Jewish state.
Follow Israel Hayom on Facebook and Twitter
Despite the coronavirus outbreak, Masa has seen a significant increase in applications from young Jews to come to Israel to participate in its programs. According to the organization, there was a 36% increase in the participation of Masa programs and a 40% increase in its volunteer programs.
There are currently 7,500 Masa participants in Israel who arrived in the country in the last few months. Thousands more are expected to arrive in the upcoming year.
"Masa gives thousands the chance to strengthen their Jewish identity, and to deepen their relationship with Israel," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at the event. "Israel is the cradle of the Jewish past. Israel is where the Jewish future is being forged. And if you want to be a part of that future, if you want to have an impact upon that future, Israel is the place to be. Welcome home."
"This has been a challenging year for all of us", said Chairman of The Jewish Agency Isaac Herzog. "I want to salute and applaud each and every one of the Masa fellows, for choosing to come to Israel during this difficult period, to connect and contribute to Israeli society."
"I am happy that despite the coronavirus pandemic, we are opening Masa's 16th programming year," Masa Acting CEO Ofer Gutman added. "The thousands of fellows, who have arrived in Israel this year, are a testament to the deep commitment of young Jews from around the world to Israel and their desire to make an impact and connect to their roots. I believe that this event, designed to connect the different ends of the Jewish global community, provides an unforgettable, exciting, and powerful experience."
Subscribe to Israel Hayom's daily newsletter and never miss our top stories!
