The purpose of the tour is to create an environment in which participants may experience a deep connection to the land and the people of Israel and to help them discover the universal spiritual roots of Jewish tradition. We will visit holy sites, places of natural beauty, museums and national landmarks , centers of peace and reconciliation work, and many very fine teachers and artists - all in the framework of daily prayer , song, communal support and celebration.

RABBI ARYEH HIRSCHFIELD is the spiritual leader of P'nai Or of Portland, Oregon. As composer and performer of original and traditional Jewish music and teacher of Jewish spirituality, he also travels to many communities all over the world.

".... In the Old City, we chanted together in an ancient Sephardic synagogue. In Tiberias we davened in the ruins of another ancient shul overlooking the Kinneret We studied at Elijah's cave. At the graves of sages and prophets, we heard the stories of their lives. Reb Aryeh unfailingly knew how to draw down the holiness of the time and place so we could experience It together... Above all, we built a community as we traveled... For us this was the trip worth waiting for - at the same time, others who had traveled to Israel before had a completely fresh, and deeper experience of being In the land."

"...The trip was well organized, leaving room for wonderful spontaneity. And Aryeh's music - I still hear his music!"

"Being on a spiritual journey with others who saw the journey as a quest as well, added great depth for me. Rabbi Aryeh and Jackie arranged an amazing agenda that filled our days and nights, minds, hearts, and souls."

"This trip offers an opportunity to experience Israel in a way that allows for the deepest learning Israel has to offer but still empowers us on our Jewish Renewal path... I loved my first experience so much I went again."

"My heart opened as I immersed myself in daily prayer and singing, walked the land that I'm discovering is so dear to me, met peacemakers of all backgrounds, and created family of my tour buddies."

"I have a tremedous sense of gratitude to the two of you: for your vision, your passion, your love, and your sheer chutzpah in leading people on a journey of this nature. Thank you, thank you, thank you."