Excitement Growing for Rabbi’s 5K Walk on June 10

Rabbi Benjamin Shull’s 5K Walk in honor of Israel’s 70th anniversary is set for Sunday, June 10, with hopes for up to 200 participants, including adults and children.

The walk will start at the synagogue and head along the Rock Creek Trail to Lake Frank and back for a total journey of approximately three miles. Those who can’t make the entire walk will be encouraged to walk as far as they can.

Following the walk, which will start at 10 a.m., a catered Israeli lunch will be served.  Everyone who participates receives a commemorative Rabbi’s Walk t-shirt.

One main goal is to increase understanding and appreciation of Israel’s history and culture and Hebrew language. The TI Israel Affairs Committee will provide information about Israel for participants at the start of the walk and at Lake Frank. There will also be Israeli music and singing.

The walk committee hopes many children of all ages will join in the celebration.  Plans are being made for various activities for children, including those unable to make the trek.

To ensure the safety of walkers, a medical team of Tikvat Israel health professionals will be on site as well as marshals along the walk path to ensure participants follow the course and to provide any help.

In addition to celebrating Israel’s 70th anniversary, the walk is also a fundraiser for the synagogue. Members can become sponsors at various giving levels, and the walk is open to friends and relatives of congregants.

To attract families with children, there will be a flat family price of just $70, which will cover two adults and all children 12 years old and under. There will be no charge for children 5 and under. 

Because of the synagogue’s crowded spring, summer and fall schedules, there is no alternative date for the walk so it will take place rain or shine. If weather is too inclement, indoor activities will be planned.

The walk involves a lot of work, and more volunteers are needed.; In addition to health professionals and marshals, the walk will need people to help set up and clean up, collect needed supplies, work with children’s activities and handle other tasks. To volunteer, contact Sam Gilston at or the TI office staff.

To make sure we can reserve your place for lunch and a commemorative T-shirt, please register today or before May 30. Visit tikvatisrael.org/rabbiwalk to download a registration form, or call the Tikvat Israel office (301-762-7338) to reserve your spaces. Also, please let us know if you can volunteer to help make the day a success.

The walk to and from Lake Frank on the Rock Creek Trail (see map HERE) starts at the synagogue at 10:00 a.m. and is followed by lunch and music until;1:00 p.m.Children’s activities are also planned. This is a great way to celebrate the establishment of Israel, enjoy time with fellow congregants and raise money for the synagogue.