Last week, Jerusalem welcomed more than 1,400 participants from over 40 countries for the 39th World Zionist Congress (WZC). What began in 1897 under the vision of Theodor Herzl has become a living platform where Jews from every corner of the world unite to deliberate, dream, and shape the future of Zionism not only for Israel, but for the Jewish people as a whole.

Representing the voices of more than two million Masorti/Conservative Jews worldwide, our MERCAZ/Masorti delegation of over 100 representatives from 18 countries across 5 continents stood united in its mission to strengthen Jewish life wherever it flourishes. Guided by their commitment to pluralism, equality, and education, the delegates and representatives worked to ensure that our movement has the support and resources it needs to build a strong, inclusive, and enduring Jewish future.

In preparation for this year’s “Parliament of the Jewish People,” MERCAZ and Masorti/Conservative leaders gathered in Jerusalem for two days of training, dialogue, and strategic planning. The pre-Congress seminar, held just days before the opening of the WZC, focused on analyzing lessons from previous campaigns, refining political strategies, and deepening the participants’ understanding of our shared Zionist mission.

The program was filled with inspiration and purpose. Participants came together hearing from MERCAZ and Masorti Olami Executive Director Rabbi Mauricio Balter and WZO Vice Chair Dr. Yizhar Hess, as well as other key leaders and professionals of our movement. Educator Dr. Rachel Korazim offered a moving presentation connecting modern poetry and sacred texts, weaving history, resilience, and meaning.

Our delegation also gathered for Shacharit at the Egalitarian Kotel together with rabbis, leaders and representatives from Masorti Israel, spent the day at the newly opened Knesset Museum, and participated in strategic workshops focused on advancing our movement’s agenda within the WZC committees.

The seminar concluded with a Gala Evening at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where the group celebrated years of dedication and leadership across the global Masorti/Conservative family. Special tributes honored MERCAZ Olami Outgoing Presidents Rabbi Alan Silverstein and Emily Levy-Shochat, whose visionary guidance helped lead MERCAZ to its historic success, as well as all of those leaders in each country who worked tirelessly on the campaign. With inspiring words from Rabbi Debra Newman Kamin, MERCAZ Olami’s newly elected President, and Margo Gold, President of Masorti Olami, the event bridged the accomplishments of the past with the promise of the future.

Our presence at the 39th Zionist Congress

Guided by the values of pluralism, egalitarianism, and equality, our delegates worked diligently on behalf of the Masorti/Conservative movement worldwide, presenting and advocating for resolutions that embody the movement’s core principles. After intense deliberation and voting, three key resolutions were approved, each one carrying tangible meaning for Jewish life in Israel and the Diaspora.

• Equal recognition and access at the Egalitarian Kotel, reaffirming the right of every Jew to pray freely and with dignity.
• A fair and inclusive enlistment law, ensuring shared civic responsibility among all sectors of Israeli society.
• A State Commission of Inquiry into the events of October 7, demanding transparency, accountability, and moral clarity in the pursuit of truth.

These resolutions are not only symbolic victories, they are concrete steps toward a more inclusive and just Zionism, one that recognizes the diversity of Jewish expression and reinforces the bond between Israel and the global Jewish community.

Beyond these important outcomes, MERCAZ Olami Immediate Past Co-President Rabbi Alan Silverstein was recognized as an Honorary Fellow of the World Zionist Congress in appreciation of his decades of leadership and service to the Zionist movement. In another historic milestone, Rabbi Gershom Sizomu became the first-ever delegate from Uganda, representing the Abayudaya communities, and marking a moment of profound significance for global Jewish inclusivity.

Reflecting on the strength and character of the Masorti/Conservative presence at the Congress, Masorti Europe Vice-President Bruce Rigal highlighted the movement’s ability to lead through dialogue, respect, and principled engagement in a powerful article. "As a progressive, liberal movement that is also deeply committed to halacha, we earned respect from many sides. We used that credibility, along with patience, respect and openness, to build coalitions with those to our left and right." Click here to read it in full.

A shared journey of preparation and purpose

The successes of this Congress did not happen overnight. They are the result of years of dedicated work: thoughtful preparation, grassroots mobilization, educational initiatives, and political advocacy carried out by committed volunteers, leaders, and supporters across continents. Each conversation, campaign, and partnership built the foundation that made this historic moment possible.

As we look toward the future, the work continues: to strengthen our representation, to uphold the values of pluralism and equality, and to ensure that the Masorti/Conservative voice continues to be heard clearly within the World Zionist Organization and throughout the Jewish world.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all delegates, alternates, supporters, leaders and dedicated staff of our movement and its organizations who helped bring this vision to life. Your passion, leadership, and dedication embody the heart of our movement: a community united by shared purpose, guided by Jewish values, and committed to building a vibrant, inclusive future for all.

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