Shortly after breakfast at Kibbutz Dalia we took a short drive to Kibbutz Megiddo. The Kibbutz was founded in 1949. The Rubinites learned about life in the Kibbutz now and the changes it has endured through the years.
We the visited an agricultural farm that also offer occupational opportunities for adults with special needs. We were learned how the program is providing these adults with services and opportunities to learn and work. We were very touched by working along side with them and had an opportunity to purchase some arts and crafts that were made by the participants of the program. We definitely felt humbled by the work that the people in the program provide the participants. So many great things are happening in Yokneam and Megiddo through the partnership with the Jewish Federation of St. Louis.
We then visited Moshav Midrah Oz. The difference between a Moshav and a Kibbutz is that in a Moshav land is individually owned but of fixed and equal size. Workers produced crops through individual and or pooled labor and resources and used profit to provide for themselves. Moshavim (plural) typically has a synagogue that serve it’s members whereas kibbutzim do not. We had the unique opportunity to visit a beautiful synagogue located in Moshav Midrach Oz. The Ark houses 30 Torahs. As you can see in the picture above the Torah mantles were impressive too.
We had an excellent lunch at Diana Restaurant, which serves a variety of Middle Eastern Food.
The Rubinites had the honor to provide an after school program with birthday gifts to the participating children. These at risk children are provided with a supporting and loving atmosphere, a hot meal, scholastic assistance and activities. We had the honor of playing an Israeli game with the kids called Matcot, an Israeli game that kids love to play. We also had the opportunity to make Israeli bread cooked on an outdoor griddle shaped like a dome. Even though we were full from lunch, we couldn’t resist this bread. The excitement from the children was definitely felt by all of us. What a great experience!
