Asher planting a tree at Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur with his grandson earlier this year at T"u B'Shvat.
(July 18, 2025) The residents of Ma'oz Tzur, a close-knit community known for its vibrant spirit and unity, announced with heavy hearts the passing of one of its cherished members, Asher Paokhokap Thomsong, who was 82 years old at the time of his death. This poignant event, which took place last week, marks a significant moment for the kibbutz, as it is the first instance of mourning in a year that has otherwise been filled with joyous milestones and celebrations. Asher was not only a beloved figure in the community but also the father
Well wishers gather at Ma'oz Tzur to pay their final respects.
of Shimon Thomsong, who serves as the resident religious instructor, guiding the spiritual life of Ma'oz Tzur with dedication and care. Asher was remembered fondly by those who knew him as a gentle and quiet soul, someone who embodied kindness and humility. His presence in the kibbutz was a source of comfort and stability, and many residents have shared their memories of his warm smile and thoughtful demeanor. He had a unique ability to connect with people on a personal level, often offering a listening ear or a word of encouragement when it was needed most. His contributions to the community extended beyond his familial ties; he was actively involved in various kibbutz activities, always willing to lend a helping hand or share his wisdom with others. In accordance with Jewish tradition, Asher was laid to rest at the Petach Tikva B'nei Menashe cemetery. The arrangements for his burial were handled with great care, and permission was graciously granted by the representative of the chief of Petach Tikva, especially since the necessary preparations had not yet been completed at the kibbutz itself. This thoughtful gesture ensured that Asher received the respectful farewell he deserved, surrounded by family and friends who came to pay their last respects. Degel Menashe joins the residents of Ma'oz Tzur in mourning the loss of Asher. They extend their heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time, offering their support and wishing them strength as they navigate the sorrow of losing a loved one. The impact of Asher's life and the legacy he leaves behind will undoubtedly resonate within the hearts of the residents for years to come, as they remember the values he stood for and the love he shared with everyone around him.
(June 11, 2025) In keeping with the community support program, Degel Menashe distributed a substantial total of 750 kilos of rice to the residents of Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur last week on the 2nd and 3rd of July, 2025. This initiative specifically targeted the 20 families who reside in this close-knit agricultural community, providing them with a vital staple that is essential for their daily sustenance. While these residents have made impressive strides toward achieving a certain level of self-sufficiency through various agricultural practices, rice remains a crucial component that they have not yet been able to cultivate locally. Readers may recall previous initiatives
A family stands with their quota of rice.
that have been covered in our articles, which highlighted the community's efforts to grow a variety of vegetables and other cash crops. These endeavors have been met with enthusiasm and dedication, showcasing the resilience and ingenuity of the kibbutz members. However, it is important to note that the crops they have planted will still require some time to mature adequately before they can be harvested and brought to market. This transitional phase is critical, as it underscores the importance of having reliable food sources while waiting for the new crops to yield results. In the meantime, the kibbutz is also set to embark on another exciting venture: a poultry farm project that is scheduled to begin very soon. This initiative aims to diversify the community’s agricultural output and enhance food security by providing a consistent source of protein for the families living there. The poultry farm is expected to complement the existing agricultural efforts and contribute to the overall self-sufficiency of Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur. As these projects develop, they not only promise to strengthen the local economy but also foster a sense of community as families work together to build a sustainable future.
Asaf Renthlei conducting a class at the summer camp in Shlom Tzion Synagogue, Aizawl, Mizoram.
On the heels of the successful summer camp that was held at Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur, which served as a vibrant hub for cultural and educational activities, similar camps were subsequently organized at Shlom Tzion Synagogue in Aizawl and Petach Tikva, Lamka. These initiatives aimed to replicate the enriching experiences offered at Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur, and the enthusiasm surrounding the camps was palpable. While Petach Tikva was fortunate enough to have its own funding sources to support their camp activities, the situation was different for Shlom Tzion. In this case, the Degel Menashe organization stepped in to provide valuable assistance, ensuring that the camp at Shlom Tzion, which was primarily funded by the local chapter of the B'nei Menashe Council, could proceed without financial hindrance. The overarching goals of these camps remained consistent across all locations: to emphasize the importance of learning and exposure to various aspects of Judaism, Hebrew language, and Israeli culture. This educational focus was designed not only to enhance participants' knowledge but also to prepare them for the imminent aliya, or immigration to Israel, which many
The camp at Petach Tikva, Lamka.
attendees were eagerly anticipating. The camps provided a unique platform for participants to immerse themselves in their heritage, fostering a deeper connection to their identity and community. Asaf Renthlei, a dedicated B'nei Menashe educator who played a pivotal role in the camp's operations, shared with our newsletter that the camp was a tremendous success. He noted that the attendees were overwhelmingly happy with their experiences, expressing a strong desire for more camps of this nature in the future. This enthusiasm for continued learning and connection to their roots was a testament to the camp's impact on the participants' lives. Similarly, at the Petach Tikva location, Menashe Kipgen, another prominent figure in the B'nei Menashe community, spoke passionately about the enthusiasm exhibited by the participants. He highlighted the joy and excitement that filled the air during the camp, noting how the activities fostered a sense of community and belonging among the attendees. Kipgen also echoed the call for more camps in the near future, emphasizing the need for ongoing support and opportunities for the B'nei Menashe community to engage in meaningful educational experiences. The positive feedback from both camps underscored the vital role these gatherings play in nurturing the cultural and spiritual growth of the participants, ensuring that the legacy of their heritage continues to thrive.
(July 3, 2025) Rivka Hilsia McGowan is a 26-year-old wife and mother who is currently pursuing her Masters in Bioinformatics at Ben Gurion University in Beer Sheva. As she enters the final year of her program, Rivka is on the cusp of a significant academic achievement; upon her graduation, she will proudly become the fourth individual from the B'nei Menashe community to complete her Masters here in Israel. This milestone is not just a personal triumph for Rivka, but also a moment of pride for her community, which has been striving to enhance educational opportunities for its members. The journey of B'nei Menashe students in higher education has seen notable milestones in recent years. Prior to Rivka, three other distinguished scholarship recipients from Degel Menashe have successfully completed their Masters degrees. These individuals include Bat El Rently, who graduated from Hebrew University in 2020, Dina Kipgen Rachamim, who earned her degree from Holon Academic College in 2021, and Ruth Elezra, who completed her studies in Educational leadership and Administration at Jerusalem College in 2022. Each of these women has not only advanced their own education but has also contributed to the growing narrative of B'nei Menashe success in academic fields.
In a discussion with colleagues.
Rivka's academic journey has been significantly supported by Degel Menashe's scholarship program, which she has been a part of since her second year of her bachelor’s degree in 2022. This program has been instrumental in providing financial assistance and resources to students from the B'nei Menashe community, enabling them to pursue their educational goals without the burden of overwhelming debt. Over the past five years, this scholarship program has successfully distributed more than 100 scholarships, benefiting a total of 66 students. Of these, 32 have already graduated or obtained their diplomas, marking a substantial impact on the educational landscape for the community. It is also noteworthy that several students within this program have been repeat recipients of the scholarship, allowing them to receive ongoing support throughout their academic journeys. This continuity of assistance underscores the commitment of Degel Menashe to foster an environment where students can thrive and succeed in their educational pursuits. Rivka serves as a remarkable example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Her story is one of inspiration, not only for her peers but also for the younger generation of B'nei Menashe youths who aspire to follow in her footsteps. Degel Menashe hopes that Rivka's accomplishments will ignite a passion for education and ambition among other members of the community, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and realize their potential in various fields of study. As she prepares to graduate, Rivka embodies the spirit of resilience and determination, paving the way for future scholars from her community.
Hackathon organized by Indian Jewish youths in Israel.
Rivka shares her academic journey with us in her own words:
"I was born to a mother who prioritized education above all else. Even as a widow, she did everything possible to provide my siblings and me with the best education she could afford. I was accepted into JNV (Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, a renowned chain of government schools in India) Tuinom, where I gained substantial knowledge and developed a thirst for more. In May 2014, when I was 15, we made aliyah. We moved directly from the Merkaz Klita to my high school in Meron, Ulpanat Bnei Akiva. After completing high school, I spent a year doing Sherut Leumi at a primary school in Ma'alot, assisting students, including Bnei Menashe children, who struggled to keep up in class. I then searched for a place to pursue a bachelor's degree and discovered a college in Jerusalem called Machon Tal, a division of Machon Lev for religious women. I was thrilled to study science while also attending a Midrasha, as I believe combining these two is essential in life. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Bioinformatics in 2023.
I got married during my second year of undergraduate studies and relocated to Beer Sheva to be nearer to my husband's military base. I chose to continue my education, and fortunately, there is a university in Beer Sheva, so I began my master's degree in Eitan Rubin's lab.
A social media handle of the Indian Embassy.
For my master's degree, I am conducting research on analyzing microscopic images to identify cell types using AI and machine learning. The goal of my research is to examine a patient's cancer tissue slide and determine the types of cells present, which will ultimately indicate the patient's likelihood of survival. In essence, I am employing computational methods to gain insights into the biological significance of the patient. I gave birth during the first year of my master's program, making it extremely challenging, but now I am in my final semester and beginning to write my thesis, which means I can see the end on the horizon."
Recently, Rivka participated in a Hackathon organized by Jewish youths of Indian origin, endorsed by the Indian Embassy. This event is the first in a series aimed at promoting science and technology, and it signifies the start of a collaborative Indo-Israel tech community based on innovation, a shared vision, and lasting personal and national partnerships. The event, centered on the significant and influential area of restorative healthcare, was conducted with backing from several esteemed organizations, such as the alumni associations of Units 8200 and 81, the University of Haifa, heritage centers from Kochi and India, and the Embassy of India in Israel.
