News and Reflections
Modest is Hottest
Modesty is a loaded word. It has been used to describe appropriate behavior and appropriate dress. It has been confused with humility. It is often used to restrict women and rarely used to restrict men. But what does modesty really mean?
Community at a Glance: Havot Yair
This is the series you have been waiting for – the chance to visit communities in Judea and Samaria, from the comfort of your home, and catch a glimpse of life in each and every community!
Esther, Mordecai and the Challenges of Exile
Each year, Jews all over the world celebrate the holiday of Purim. They celebrate the miracle of salvation as described in the Book of Esther, with special prayers in the synagogue, public readings of Esther, festive meals, gifts of sweet food packages to neighbors and friends and charity to the poor.
A Visit With Shmuel: Yakir
I have visited Yakir many times, but this time I was blown away by how far it has come. Yakir is a well-established, cohesive, and active community located in the lush rolling hills of western Samaria.
Lessons from the Terrible Events in Europe Today
Ukraine! There is nothing else on anyone’s minds today but the terrible situation that has developed in the Ukraine. An independent country in Eastern Europe, formerly part of the Soviet bloc, has been invaded by Russia. Vladimir Putin, a former KGB officer, has long desired the restoration of Russian imperial and Soviet powers, which included Russian influence or control over Eastern Europe.
Meet A Pioneer: Chedva
CFOIC Heartland is proud to introduce Maya Berretta, our Content and Project Manager, in her new series – A Modern Pioneer in Biblical Israel.
Valentine’s Day
Sondra Oster Baras provides a Jewish and Biblical perspective on the holiday of love, while Kimberly Troup, and Tommy Waller share some of the Christian history and current customs surrounding Valentine’s Day.
The Truth Must Win Out
Today I had lunch with a couple of Danish journalists. They were truly interested in Israel and in Judea and Samaria and asked questions,. They wanted to know why I decided to live here and what our life is like here. At one point, I made a statement that I often make in these contexts: “So many people think we are a bunch of militant crazies who just want to kill Arabs at any opportunity, but we’re not.” And then one of the journalists asked me: “Why do you think people think that?”
A Visit With Shmuel: Givat Hanan
Givat Hanan represents the pioneering spirit in Judea and Samaria. Two years ago, in response to the increasing number of Arabs encroaching on Jewish land in the area, eleven young families, dedicated to protecting the Jewish claim to the land of their ancestors established a new neighborhood of Sussya.
Exploring the Spiritual Lessons of the Fruits of Israel
Tu B’Shvat celebration – the 15th day in the Hebrew month of Shvat - is referred to as the “new year for the trees.” Although not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, Tu B’Shvat has come to represent our connection to the Land of Israel.
