Rhode Island Coalition for Israel seeking board members, planning events

Amid a slate of activities, the Rhode Island Coalition for Israel is looking to add new members to its board of directors.

The coalition, which unites Christian and Jewish supporters of Israel, is seeking to add to its board as current members finish their terms. Those who have been involved and are interested in a leadership role, including setting the direction of RICI and providing organizational support, should contact maria@ricoalitionforisrael.org.

This month, the group will officially launch the Rhode Island chapter of Lox & Loaded, a pro-Jewish gun safety and shooting club. The club will meet monthly at Midstate Gun Company in Coventry and is open to all, regardless of background or skill level. In accordance with state law, a safety class is mandatory before attending a meeting. Register for membership at tinyurl.com/loxandloadedri or, for questions, write to maria@ricoalitionforisrael.org.

The coalition’s flagship event — the annual awards fundraiser — will take place Nov. 15 and will include an Israeli wine tasting. The evening will honor Avi Nevel, May-Tal Cutler and Stanley Freedman with various awards. While registration is filling up, tickets are still available at tinyurl.com/2026rici. The Providence location will be shared with registrants closer to the date.

RICI has held several activities recently. Its members participated in or spoke at three Nights to Honor Israel. The nights took place at Praise Tabernacle Church in Cranston; Faith Christian Center in Seekonk, Massachusetts; and Vida Abundante, a Hispanic church in Providence.

The coalition describes the events as “meaningful gatherings between local Jewish and Christian communities to support Israel, dispel myths and misinformation about Israel and commemorate the tragedy of the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks.”

Also in commemoration of Oct. 7, RICI, Temple Sinai and the Consulate General of Israel to New England held an event Oct. 6, which included a screening and discussion of “October Shadows: An Exploration of Trauma and Healing After October 7.”