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Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid and a number of faction members took part in the Israeli tradition, visiting areas of Yerushalayim between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur to take part in walking tours known as ‘Siyurei Slichos’. This appears to have become the secular replacement for actually reciting slichos for many who wish to remain ‘traditional’ and mark this special time period by reflecting on the customs of their grandparents and the yishuv of yesteryear. Unfortunately, the actual recitation of slichos has been lost for many and this is the replacement for some.

This particular tour was headed by MK (Yesh Atid) Dr. Ruth Calderon, who has earned her MA and Ph.D. in Talmud from Hebrew University in Jerusalem. She has also established the first Israeli secular pluralistic and egalitarian Beit Medrash for women and men.

According to reports, they discussed tradition and the Tishrei Yomim Tovim as well as the future of Israeli society and Yesh Atid’s vital role in bridging gaps between sectors of society. They began at the Behar Center on Betzalel Street and then entered the alleyways of Nachlaot, a popular site for ‘Siyurei Slichos’.

Yesh Atid MK Dr. Aliza Lavie, who took part, explained to Kol Chai Radio on Thursday morning 4 Tishrei that not everyone merited growing up frum and this is a way to bring people closer and permit them to attach to their Yiddishkheit in a pleasant environment. Lavie, who is shomer Mitzvot, closed the interview by wishing everyone a גמר חתימה טובה.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem/Photos: Yesh Atid)