When I was approached over 3 years ago and asked if I would consider putting my name forward as the next President of ICJW, I made two lists. One in favour of accepting and one against. Top of the list for accepting was “Meeting Affiliates”, and next was the ability to travel and see the work of affiliates for myself.

Sadly since the beginning of this year neither has been possible and I am not convinced that next year will be an improvement. In the UK we have just been informed of further restrictions which will limit the number of people we can meet and places we can go. I am sure that many other members find themselves in a similar position.

Much of the work of ICJW has been put on hold. Executive Meetings have been postponed, and Volunteering has largely been cancelled due to the nature of the work.  The support that Affiliates are keen to provide to those less fortunate has been severely reduced.

Zoom and WhatsApp have proved a lifeline to keep us in contact with each other, but nothing is comparable to meeting and discussing face to face.

As we approach Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, few of us around the world will be able to hold our usual large family gatherings or meet up with our friends in Synagogue. However, I am sure we all wish for the same outcomes for 5781 – good health and happiness for our families and friends and all of ICJW.

I wish you all a Happy, Healthy and Peaceful New Year and look forward to when we will be able to meet in person.

Shana Tovah Umetukah,

Penelope Conway
President ICJW