She wants to help children rediscover their Jewish roots. I was born here. Ironically, the oblast's Jewish revival may sow the seeds of its own demise by encouraging an interest in Israel. The opening up of Russian society coincides with a prolonged economic crisis and a newfound ability to emigrate. Israel is seen by many as a ticket out of a nation in turmoil.
Some papers publish classified ads from ethnic Russian lonelyhearts looking for a Jewish spouse.
Even the Sunday school serves for some as a gateway to Israel. And if I come here, it will be easier to go to Israel. Emigration casts its shadow on the Birobidzhan synagogue, Beit Tshuva. The synagogue is located in a traditional Russian house with a giant metallic menorah attached to the roof. But the Jewish Autonomous Oblast, he says, is not the source of his people's aspirations.