We will briefly explore four key ways in which Jews can learn about their past and future by peering into the world of Islam and Shariah law.
Should non Jews be asked to wear a kippah when they attend services? This will be our jumping off point to address the question of the social and religious questions surrounding the issue of the Jews full acceptance into American culture, as proven through the growing number of non Jews who find themselves in our synagogues. So how do we make room for, invite in and warmly embrace others?
The questions keeps echoing in your mind: I'm dating someone who isn't Jewish and I can't tell my parents - what do I do? What will my bubbe think about the rabbi and priest co-officiating at our wedding? We've just had kids, how do I instill Jewish identity in them when my spouse celebrates Christmas? Come to this interactive discussion about interfaith families and relationships - and be prepared to share your opinions!
Jeff Lieberman's new documentary film, "RE-EMERGING: The Jews of Nigeria" has been engaging audiences around the US with an in-depth look at the Igbo people of Africa's most volatile nation. Lieberman will share stories from his many weeks living amongst these communities, in addition to detailing the history, culture and debate surrounding the Igbo Jewish population. Clips from the film will give attendees a glimpse into their music, prayer, practice, and vibrant enthusiasm for Judaism.
This session will explore the spiritual, aesthetic, and social meaning of some historical trends and battles in the design of Western houses of worship. We’ll look, for example, at why some synagogue sanctuaries have a bema in the center while others put the cantor or rabbi on a stage at the front. And we’ll ask why many churches are moving their liturgical focus from the front to an area that they call a bema. Designing sacred space, as we’ll see with words and pictures, is no simple thing.
Intermarried Jews, their partners, and their children may face restrictions on the roles they can play in religious life. These include leadership roles on committees and boards, and honors during services, such as reciting blessings over the Torah, leading prayers, or opening the ark. Why do these restrictions exist? We will look at the historic implications by examining Jewish law and explore the ways in which some synagogues are including those in their communities who are not Jewish.
