Deputy Speaker of the Knesset, MK Shlomo Molla shared his inspiring personal story of his "return from exile to Jerusalem" with the local community during a 36 hour visit to Philadelphia.
His first stop was at the consulate where he briefed community leaders as part as the "Word from Jerusalem" speakers series.
He then proceeded to an event at a downtown law office hosted by State Senator Williams and the office of Philadelphia City Council President Darrell Clarke where he address a group of fifty prominent African-American leaders.
From center city, he continued to Villanova where Mrs. Barbara Wall, Villanova Vice President for Mission & Ministry welcomed MK Molla to campus with an enlightening discourse on the power of diversity and communication in education. MK Molla delved into political and cultural issues of modern Israel during a lively Town Hall meeting with faculty and student leaders conducted followed by a "get-to-know you" reception with faculty, students and special guests from Israel.
Friday ended with a private dinner hosted by a noted Philadelphia community leader.
On Saturday morning, MK Shlomo Molla and the Israeli diplomats, Consul General Yaron Sideman and Deputy Consul General Elad Strohmayer, were greeted by Professor Earl and Rabbi Debra Bowen at Congregation Temple Bethel in West Oak Lane, Philadelphia, to the rousing energy and musical voices of the members and youth choir in the sanctuary of the African-American congregation.
MK Molla was given a brief tour of the Liberty Bell and Independence Square, including the Jewish community's B'nai B'rith Centennial statue to religious liberty, and the nearby memorial to Cheltenham High graduate, Yoni Netanyahu, Hero of the Entebbe rescue effort that occurred on the same day as the US Bicentennial, July 4, 1976.
The Finale of the MK's visit was at a community dialogue at West Philly's Elana's Soul Lounge as part of the popular "Conversation Club" speaker and discussion series.