Honeymoon Israel Foundation

Building Jewish Families Through Shared Journey 

Honeymoon Israel transforms young couples into thriving Jewish families through immersive Israel experiences and sustained community building. It serves couples with at least one Jewish partner, providing 10-day transformative trips designed as catalysts for lifelong Jewish engagement and authentic community connection. 

Small Group Vision: Friday Circles 

Post-trip, the real work begins. Honeymoon Israel’s “Friday Circles: The Conversation Continues” creates intimate peer-led communities where couples deepen their Jewish connection through monthly Shabbat dinners. Each circle includes about five couples (10 participants) meeting for five months, fostering the kind of organic relationships that sustain Jewish life. 

It is launching 8-10 pilot groups across four cities, with each gathering centered around the “concentric circles of blessing” framework introduced during their Israel experience. Groups receive training for hosts and guides, logistical support, and $30 per person for Shabbat dinners and supplies. 

Honeymoon Israel’s approach recognizes that Jewish wisdom appears in both grand moments and small touchpoints

Accessible Jewish Wisdom 

Honeymoon Israel’s approach recognizes that Jewish wisdom appears in both grand moments and small touchpoints. Curricula co-developed by staff and trip educators weaves together Jewish tradition, personal meaning-making, and practical application. Sessions blend Shabbat rituals with accessible storytelling, song, food exploration, and guided discussion. 

It focuses on building “Jewish confidence” rather than assuming prior knowledge, meeting couples exactly where they are in their Jewish journey. Content draws from the shared Israel experience while exploring themes relevant to building Jewish homes and families. 

Peer Leadership Model 

Each group features two complementary roles: a Guide who facilitates learning and leads conversations, and a Host who manages logistics and creates welcoming atmospheres. Guides train with the same educators from their Israel trip, building on established relationships and trust. 

The training emphasizes “The Art of Gathering” principles, empowering leaders to create meaningful peer-led experiences. With support from OneTable partnerships and individualized small-group training sessions, Honeymoon Israel ensures every leader feels confident facilitating authentic Jewish exploration within their own communities. 

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