Early this month, more than 100 men from across North America - far more than in each of the past two years, and including a new cohort of Hador Habah young leaders - gathered for FJMC International's annual Leadership Development Institute in Baltimore. They were joined by three new members of FJMC's International Region from London, England, who are working with FJMC to plan the first regional retreat in Europe, in the United Kingdom, in 2027. One of them, Dan Rickman, shares his reflections on FJMC.

Mentorship plays a powerful role in developing new leaders, and in the success of FJMC International. And it all starts with the words of the Torah.

Johnny Parker, executive vice president of the Seaboard Region, is both Black and Jewish, and proud of both. As America marks Black History Month in February, Parker reflects on these common bonds, and the strength they bring.

FJMC International has launched a new podcast called Mamas' Boys, hosted by Rabbi Raucher and Rob Kutner, and featuring various Jewish guests. It started as a stubborn question Rabbi Raucher couldn’t shake: in a world that keeps rewriting the rules — politically, economically, spiritually, socially – what does it mean to be a Jewish man today?

FJMC International has launched a new initiative called Darchei Shalom, or Pathways for Peace, seeking to promote interfaith and multi-cultural dialogue, based on the Hizmet Movement created by the late Turkish spiritual leader Fethullah Gϋlen. It's about collaboration and cooperation among all.

Tired of the same old movies? Have we got a solution for you! FJMC International has launched its first film festival, with three movies to be viewed live or on-demand this month. Popcorn, anyone?

Sponsored by the National Council of Jewish Women to honor the Jewish value of reproductive freedom, Repro Shabbat is an annual celebration that will be taking place this year on Feb. 13-14. Once again, FJMC International is supporting this program, to be marked around the world.

Svara, a new kind of yeshiva, empowers queer and trans people to expand Torah and tradition through the spiritual practice of Talmud study.

Pride and Prejudice, FJMC's new quarterly publication that features stories of acceptance and tolerance, takes a look this month at the modern Jewish family and the challenges families face.

If there's one thing that can be said about FJMC, its members, and our events, it's that, despite all of our seriousness, we like to loosen up. And while it's certainly not all about having a good drink, there's certainly nothing wrong with one either. So our own Al Davis will be helping out with some recommendations.

Israeli music has come a long way in the last few decades, with modern artists belting out songs rivaling those found in the United States and Europe, and competing in Eurovision. Our Jason Hecht will take us on a regular tour through Israel's musical world.

Purim and Passover are coming up fast. Find out what FJMC is doing to observe, understand and celebrate.

One of the missions of the United Nations is to protect the rights and safety of children around the world. Yet 400 million children live in danger zones. Find out about the U.N.'s responsibilities, our own obligations, and what we can do.

Once again, FJMC marked the annual World Wide Wrap on Feb. 8, with commemorations not only across North America, but across the globe. The Wide World Wrap encourages Jewish men, women, and youth globally to learn about and participate in the mitzvah (commandment) of wearing tefillin. And this year, we are doing an extra mitzvah, by collecting unused tefillin to send to Jewish communities across the world.

Are you involved in social media marketing and/or have expertise in creating social media campaigns? Our FJMC International Communications Committee needs your help and support! We are forming a subcommittee to focus on increasing our social media reach and engagement. Please contact Communications Chair Lester Shapiro at LShapiro@fjmc.org to learn more and participate.

It's not easy being green - the FJMC had a long-standing commitment to the environment and sustainability with the Shomrei Ha'aretz Initiative, and we need more guys to carry on that work. Contact environment@fjmc.org to learn more about how to help. 

All of our past editions of HaD'Var are available for your reading pleasure on the FJMC website in the Media Section. 

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