From the Kotel to the Kitchen Table: Momentum Trip Reflection

December 16, 2025 | Israel & Global

Written by Michele Birenbaum, Momentum Israel Trip Cohort Member (second from the right in the photo)

Luckily, it took me less time to decide to go on a Momentum Israel Trip with the Jewish Connection Network than it has taken me to decide how to start this reflection. When I think about my amazing trip, what are the highlights that I want to share? There is so much.

Do I focus on the beautiful places throughout Israel? On the feeling of walking on the Jerusalem stone of the Old City, surrounded by tall walls of ancient homes, and then emerging into the open Kotel plaza to see the Western Wall glowing under a blue sky? I had so many emotions there; highlighted by the knowledge that “I’m actually here.” I felt gratitude for being able to stand in such a holy, important place and to feel safe, comfortable, and welcome.

Or do I describe the shuk—alive with the smells of spices, sweet kanafe, and pomegranate tea—where Israeli music blasts as people from all over dance, shop, and eat?
Do I share how deeply I felt the grief at the Nova Festival site? Standing there, I finally understood how there was literally nowhere to hide as terrorists infiltrated what was meant to be a celebration of joy and dancing. I broke at the memorial photos with names matching those of my own family members.

Or do I share the warmth and togetherness I felt throughout the trip, surrounded by both old friends and new? How familiar it felt to link arms and sing Acheinu at Hostage Square. How singing a familiar tune to Birkat Hamazon at Shabbat dinner felt like being with family, even while I was 5,600 miles away from my actual family.

The truth is: I want to share all of it. This truly was the trip of a lifetime. I think about it daily—that is not an exaggeration. I think about the delicious food, the inspiring lectures, the kind Israeli people, the incredible historical sites, and the meaningful conversations.

As a mom, it is rare to close all the browser tabs in our brains and focus on one thing. This trip allowed me to do that. I was able to focus on the relationship between being Jewish and being a mom.

Spending over a week with our Ashkeloni sisters was incredibly special. Our additional day in Ashkelon was truly special. I am so thankful that The Associated and The Baltimore Ashkelon Partnership Grant made this extra day possible—we fit so many meaningful moments into our final day in Israel.

We still have active WhatsApp chats full of family updates and funny pictures. The genuine warmth they showed us throughout the trip—and especially during our time in Ashkelon—was life-changing. Strangers turned into family as we bonded over our shared love of Judaism, Israel, and motherhood. When I return, I already know I’ll make plans to see them.

Ashkelon, Israel

After planting a beautiful flower garden in Ashkelon (pictured above), we stopped at a farm school where we saw a sculpture based on a Russian tale. In the story, a vegetable grows so large that one person can’t pull it out. Then another comes to help, and then another, but even together they can’t pull it out—until a tiny mouse joins in, and only then do they succeed. It made me think about how each of us makes a difference, and how much of a difference we made together on this trip. I thought about the big moments that impacted me—seeing the Nova Festival memorial, praying at the Kotel, floating in the Dead Sea—and also about the individuals I’ll never forget: our Ashkeloni sisters, the people at Yad L’Kashish, the IDF soldiers who spoke with us, the mothers of two former hostages. Their stories and friendships have shaped my learning and being as a Jewish mom. The experiences were truly magical.

Each day, we met with our incredible educator to explore a Jewish value. These weren’t boring lectures; they were dynamic, thought-provoking conversations that still stay with me. I continue to reflect on how I want to show up as both a Jewish woman and a Jewish mother. I find myself being more intentional when lighting Shabbat candles, and I think often about how we can approach hard conversations with a learner’s mindset.

When we landed in Eretz Yisrael, we learned that our goal for this journey was to deepen our relationship with Israel—to connect with the people, the land, and the values—and to bring that renewed pride, knowledge, and connection back to our families.

Moms are busy, Israel is far, and a trip can only seem like a blip in time once you return home. The Network allows us to strengthen our bonds, expand upon our learning, and continue to grow as Jewish women together during the year of growth. Starting before our trip, and continuing for the next six months, our cohort continues to meet for meaningful learning, discussions about Jewish values, and ways to connect to our community. This continuation of the Momentum Israel experience holds me accountable for continuing to learn and grow as a Jewish mom.

Like I said, it was never really a question whether I should go on the Momentum trip. The real challenge began once I returned home: How will I use the knowledge, experiences, wisdom, and memories I gained to carry me forward until my next visit?

And I think I know how: by sharing the values, the stories, the experiences, and the feelings with those around me—so they can understand just how special Israel is. Am Yisrael Chai!