Dear Haverim,
We are living at a most exciting time to be Jewish. It’s so important that we appreciate how accepting liberal Judaism has become and not only overly focus on the plague of anti-Semitism that we must, unfortunately, combat at the same time. Simchas (joys) and tzuris (troubles) can co-exist, and the former must be celebrated, even while the latter is being managed.
Last month was “Jewish American Heritage Month” and this month is “LGBTQ+ Pride Month” and we will be celebrating both this coming Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. services, along with the progress of feminism within Judaism and intermarriage’s greater acceptance and inclusivity in today’s Judaism.
None of this “just happened.” These revolutionary changes in Judaism became transformative because women, intermarried couples, and the LGBTQ+ community demanded to be heard. Each revolution gave inspiration and hope to the others. The Women’s Movement befriended the gay community, intermarried couples argued for their legitimacy within their families and in the Jewish community, and Jewish men demanded patrilineal descent for their children as a sign of equality.
For those who have watched these changes unfold over decades and the arguments for and against inclusion, it’s a pleasure to celebrate inclusion’s victory.
Every wise congregation knows that opening its doors and hearts in an ever-inclusive way is the future of Judaism, a future that affirms individuality and autonomy, and that removes stumbling blocks to entry.
University Synagogue is that kind of congregation and we need everyone in our synagogue community to spread the word to friends, neighbors, relatives, and colleagues that our shul is open to diversity, to those Jewish and not, to those in search, and to those who too often believe that there’s no synagogue for them.
Last Friday evening, at our Beach Service, a number of people who had never been to our synagogue liked the “informal and playful vibe” of our service and will be coming to our building over the next few weeks. (So many curious people hesitate to visit a synagogue, but will “try out” a Beach Service.)
There are so many ways to invite people to University Synagogue, but none is more important and more personal than YOU inviting THEM.
So, please join us this Friday evening and bring your friends. (Click here to RSVP for our in-person services.) In addition, look on our website for all of our upcoming service topics and invite others to come with you. A synagogue is a community, and watching on Livestream, which is necessary for some, can’t truly capture the full joy and fellowship of singing, schmoozing, meeting old friends and making new ones, which always happens best in person. (To watch on Livestream, there’s no need to RSVP – just click the link on our homepage at the time of the service or anytime thereafter.)
I look forward to being at services with you this Friday evening, and perhaps hearing from you how these revolutions in Jewish life (and the world) have changed your lives.
Shavua Tov/Have a liberating week,
Rabbi Arnie Rachlis
