The Museum of the History of Polish Jews is honored to invite you to join the 2005 Mission to Poland. The Mission will take place from Sunday, June 26 through Tuesday, July 5 2005 and will offer a unique exploration of a country to which most American Jews trace their roots.

The Museum of the History of Polish Jews is an extraordinary institution, which will serve as a modern, narrative educational center focusing on almost one thousand years of Jewish presence on Polish soil. In its size and scope, the Museum, which will be completed in 2008, will be the first of its kind. With the President of Poland as the patron of this project, we are building a Museum that will reflect and honor Jewish culture and its contributions to Eastern European traditions.

We are fortunate to have Dr. Michael Berenbaum, writer, lecturer and Holocaust authority, joining us as scholar-in-residence for part of the mission. His knowledge, warmth and experience will truly add to our unforgettable tour of Jewish heritage, religious life, art and learning that once flourished in Poland. The trip will be a life-affirming exploration of the very sources of Jewish life and culture that have long been overshadowed by the unspeakable horrors of the Holocaust and the trauma and memories stemming from those tragic times.

EXPERIENCE the future Museum of the History of Polish Jews during a virtual tour, as well as an actual tour of the historic and symbolic site in the heart of Warsaw Ghetto where the Museum will stand.

ENVISION the richness of the past during a tour of the Jewish sites of Warsaw, the 19th century Jewish capital of the world.

WITNESS the darkness of history during in-depth tours of Holocaust sites with experienced and sensitive guides.

CELEBRATE life and activity at the 14th Annual Festival of Jewish Culture - a unique artistic exploration into Jewish culture in Kazimierz, of the History of Polish Jews Krakow’s historic Jewish quarter – that has stunned and inspired visitors from around the world.

EXPLORE your own personal history through customized itineraries for those who want to trace their roots in different parts of Poland.

What makes this Mission different from other Jewish heritage trips to Poland? We aim to help you grasp and appreciate the largely unexplored centuries of Eastern European Jewish life that thrived before the Shoah. The special balance of this journey, which honors the full range of Jewish life in Poland, makes our Mission highly recommended for multigenerational family groups.

Join us on this special adventure into history and heritage! Together we will discover and celebrate the achievements of the Jews of Eastern Europe, and ponder the greatness of the traditions passed from generation to generation. We are confident that you will share our enthusiasm and that you and your family will become friends and ambassadors of our ambitious undertaking.

Should you have questions about the Mission or would like a mission brochure and application, please feel free to contact Rachel Andres, mission coordinator at 323.965.5541 or by e-mail rachelandres@comcast.net.

****LATEST DEVELOPMENT***

A turning point was reached last week in our exciting project. An agreement between the Polish government, the City of Warsaw and the Jewish Historical Institute in Poland has been signed. These three entities joined together to establish this important cultural institution. The Government and the City have committed $26 million towards the construction of the building. The agreement also contains the commitment of the Government and the City to jointly cover 97% of the basic operational costs of the Museum after its opening. Major contributions have been already pledged by American donors. Consequently, we are certain this museum will become a reality in 2008!


More information about the Museum is available online at www.jewishmuseum.org.pl 


Rachel Andres
West Coast Coordinator Museum of the History of Polish Jews
rachelandres@comcast.net tel:
fax: 323-965-5541
323-965-9907