Rabbi Moshe Zemer (z’’l) held a vision of Progressive Judaism in modern Israel. He made Aliyah in 1963, then established Congregation Kedem in Tel-Aviv in 1968 which he led for twenty years and would later become The Daniel Centers for Progressive Judaism.
Ruth (z”l) and Gerard (z”l) Daniel shared his vision. Their passion for Israel and dedication to advocating for a pluralistic and inclusive Jewish Israeli society, rich in tradition and grounded in egalitarianism, brought individuals and organizations from Israel and abroad to the founding of The Daniel Centers for Progressive Judaism.
The Daniel Family has worked tirelessly to bring this vision to fruition. Even after their family moved to the United States, they continued to be very involved in their synagogue and Jewish community. Gerard served as President and Ruth was Secretary of Larchmont Temple in Westchester County, New York. He and Ruth also served on many boards of Jewish Organizations, including Federation, in the U.S.
Gerard went on to serve as President of the World Union for Progressive Judaism. In recognition of his leadership in Israel, he was given the title of honorary citizen of Tel Aviv by Mayor Ron Huldai in 2010.
Their legacy continues through the work of their children Ralph and Miriam, and son-in-law Larry Wolff. They formed the Friends of the Daniel Centers for Progressive Judaism to provide opportunities for American Jews to be connected to Israel, to advocate for pluralism and support programs for individuals and families in Tel Aviv-Jaffa.
“And they said: Let us rise and build, they strengthened their hands for the good work.”
Nehmiah 2:18