May 2007
Regional News
East Bay
The rabbis teach that "the world is sustained by three things, al haTorah, v’al ha’avadah, v’al g’milut chasadim" -- Torah study, worship and acts of loving-kindness.
I love the rabbis, but I think the world is actually sustained by one thing: relationship. Or perhaps I should say relationships. It is your relationships with your partner, your parent, your child, your friend, your neighbor, your co-workers, God, nature, and the cosmos that make up the daily meaning of your life. Without these connections our lives would be rather empty; with them, we are enriched.
If you are in an interfaith relationship you can build your personal connection to your partner by participating in an Interfaith Couples Discussion Group. It’s an eight-week workshop where you can enhance your communication and sort out the questions that arise when there are two traditions in one home. A big plus is that the group of four to five couples often become good friends, form a Havurah (friendship circle) and continue to meet monthly.
Spring is a great time to explore our Jewish community – and to go shul shopping – that is, exploring various congregations to find one that works for you. Go to a Sermon in Song service, or a Potluck Dinner and Service. Go with a Shabbos buddy (a member of that synagogue) who can introduce you around and help you meet a few people.
Eat, laugh, sing, pray for the well being of others, celebrate the arrival of a new baby or honor a senior. It will make you feel better and more connected.
Don’t know how to start? Call me, Dawn, at 510-839-2900 x347 or email dawn@jfed.org. Happy Spring
Dawn Kepler
Building Jewish Bridges: Outreach to Interfaith Couples
www.jfed.org or dawn@jfed.org
510-839-2900 x347 or 925-943-1484
« Previous Article |
Back to Newsletter | Next Article »
