A Modern Orthodox Jewish congregation of suburban Minneapolis, providing a welcoming environment for Jews of all observance levels.
Israel Independence Day is celebrated annually on 5 Iyar, the anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel (May 14, 1948). The day preceding this celebration is devoted to the memory of those who gave their lives for the achievement of the country's independence and its continued existence.
At Kenesseth Israel we recite Hallel without a bracha on Yom Haatzmaut. (Halachic discussion of this practice see: http://www.koltorah.org/ravj/Hallel%20on%20Yom%20Haatzmaut.htm)
Religious significance of the State of Israel (from Rav Yehuda Amital, 1996):
'Unlike the Charedim, we will not undermine the importance or legitimacy of the State; but our love for our country must not blind us from criticizing its shortcomings. We remain very, very far from the ideal Jewish State, and we must therefore do whatever we can to bring about its realization. A more just society and stronger public values are necessary prerequisites for its actualization. If we want to hasten the ultimate redemption, we must work harder to ensure moral values on both the individual and communal levels. Closing the social gaps, concern for the vulnerable elements of society, fighting poverty, respectful treatment of the non-Jews in Israel - all these measures will bring us closer to the day for which we long. We hope and believe that our State will develop into the ideal Jewish State, "the foundation of the Divine Throne in the world, whose entire desire is that God shall be One and His Name shall be One."' (see: http://www.vbm-torah.org/yyerush/atz59.htm)