B’nai B’rith Israel recently welcomed Ariella Cassuto, Vice President of B’nai B’rith Alliance (BBA), the organization representing B’nai B’rith lodges across Europe, with the exception of France and the United Kingdom. The visit focused on strengthening ties between B’nai B’rith members in Israel and Europe and expanding cooperation between the two organizations.
During her visit, Cassuto met with Lea Patron, B’nai B’rith Israel’s Director of Volunteer Activities, who presented an overview of the organization’s volunteer work, including its achievements and the challenges involved in carrying out national projects.
Cassuto also held a working meeting with B’nai B’rith Israel President Emanuel (Mano) Cohen. Their discussions focused on the cooperation agreement between B’nai B’rith Israel and BBA and on opportunities to further develop the partnership. Two initiatives have already been launched over the past year: a Hebrew language program for BBA members, taught on a volunteer basis by members of B’nai B’rith Israel, and a lecture series featuring speakers from Israel and Europe.
In the evening, Cassuto was hosted in the sukkah of Hava and Avi Shalev, together with members of the Positive Thinking Lodge, headed by Hava Shalev. She spoke about BBA’s activities and the importance of strengthening connections among B’nai B’rith lodges around the world. She also emphasized the role of Hebrew as a shared language connecting members of the Jewish people.
The following day, Cassuto visited ANU – Museum of the Jewish People, where she met with Sarit Ori, Chair of the B’nai B’rith Israel Young Community, and Prof. Yaron Felus, President of the Young Leadership Lodge, B’nai B’rith Israel’s first next-generation lodge. The meeting explored opportunities for cooperation between young B’nai B’rith members in Israel and members of young lodges in Europe. Cassuto also toured the museum.
Elise Shazar, B’nai B’rith Israel Vice President for International Relations, accompanied Cassuto throughout the visit.
