Try as they may, religion and politics have often played into Birthright Israel’s trips in ways not consistent with the organization’s vision. Birthright, like many other programs, has had to deal with the “who is a Jew” question to determine program eligibility. Now the question of Messianic Jews participating has become front-page news.
In a statement issued by Taglit-Birthright’s CEO, Gidi Mark, “…certain acts categorically separate individuals from what are agreed-upon parameters of Jewishness in this age.”
Good for them.
from Birthright Israel’s Website:
Eligible individuals are those recognized as Jewish by the Jewish community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism; or if either parent is Jewish AND the applicant does not actively practice another religion.
from The Jerusalem Post:
Birthright screening out Messianic Jews
Trip organizers for Birthright have begun screening American candidates interested in free trips to Israel to prevent Messianic Jews from participating.
A questionnaire of a Birthright (Taglit) trip organizer that was obtained by The Jerusalem Post includes a question regarding applicants’ religious faith.
Under a category entitled “eligibility rules,” applicants are asked to declare that they are Jewish.
They are also asked to declare that “I do not subscribe to any beliefs or follow any practices which may be in any way associated with Messianic Judaism, Jews for Jesus or Hebrew Christians.”
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Birthright has tried to screen Messianic jews for at least the past 3 years. It’s not a new effort, just more explicit. I’ve heard of active Messianic proselytizing efforts in the past few seasons, so this specific declaration- like all of birthright’s rules- is likely based on an incident.
It’s not so much of proselytizing during the trip but more of violation of terms. The trip is free and when you have applicants who are not even Jewish, by either parent yet masquerading as a Jewish person. It is a cunning thing to do. Like Loyd Mirafuentes did in 2004, from Kehilat Ariel Messianic Synagogue in Claremont San Diego. If they want to go to Israel, that is fine but don’t lie and deceive others for a free trip. The funds are for Jewish Youth. It’s about time Taglit Screens Out Messianics!