Conference taveng::bagels

809.0. "Interfaith Couples/Jews by Choice" by AITG::ISEN (Joyce, 291-8230 DLB5-2) Fri Oct 20 1989 15:43

Dear Bagelers,

As a member of the Adult Education committee at my synagogue (Congregation
B'nai Shalom in Westboro, Mass.), I'm working to develop appropriate programs
for two different groups of people:  interfaith couples, and Jews by choice.

If you are a partner in an interfaith marriage, or if you are Jewish by
conversion, would you take a few minutes to give me your opinions on what
issues you face because this, and what kind of program could be interesting and
helpful?  I've listed just a few areas below, but please add other ideas and
comments.  Lastly, do you know of other congregations in the greater Boston
area that do anything specifically for either of these two groups?

Reply here, or by mail to AITG::ISEN.

Thanks very much for your help!
Joyce

PS When we have the programs in place, I will announce them here in case anyone
is interested and is geographically able to participate.



For interfaith couples:
-----------------------
What special issues do you deal with?
     Children?
     Jewish relatives?
     Non-Jewish relatives?
     Friends?
     Holidays?
     Your spouse's religious activities?  (Or lack of them?)

Did the interfaith aspect of your marriage turn out the way you thought it
would?

Would a discussion group with other interfaith couples be beneficial to you?

Would you prefer to have guest speakers?  a moderator?  a self-directed
discussion format?

Would the presence of the Rabbi in the discussion group be helpful?
Intimidating?  Why?


For Jews by choice:
-------------------
What special issues do you deal with?
     Jewish relatives?
     Non-Jewish relatives?                                  
     Holidays?
     Friends?

Do you feel at home in the Jewish community?

Are there specific subjects you would like to learn more about?

Did your Jewish education end with your conversion ceremony?

Did the experience of being Jewish turn out the way you thought it would?

Would a discussion group with other people like yourself be beneficial to you?

Would you prefer a more structured classroom setting with a curriculum?

Would you prefer to have guest speakers?  the Rabbi?  another moderator?
self-directed discussion format?  field trips?
    

Joyce -

Our congregation, Beth Elohim in Acton, has support groups in both these
"categories".  From what I understand, they have developed into very rich
and rewarding experiences yielding fast friendships, shared concerns and
social gatherings.  If you would like to get hooked up with the leadership
of each, let me know and I can get you names/numbers; maybe they can share
some of their successes/pitfalls...

Waky

    I am a member of Temple Beth Abraham in Nashua and am most interested
    in any information you can provide me. This note is very timely
    given this subject was just discussed at a Ritual Committee Meeting.
                                                                       
    Thanks in advance for the names of contacts or information.
    
    Shalom
    Dov

    Dov,
    
    Regardless of your temple's affiliation, these resources can help you
    get started in developing an Outreach program for your congregation:
    
    1.  The UAHC (Reform) Outreach coordinator for the Boston area is
        Paula Brody, 617-277-1655.  Give her a call, tell her what you're
        doing, and ask for suggestions.
    
    2.  Read the book "Reform Jewish Outreach:  The Idea Book."  This
        was published by the UAHC in 1988.  Ask Paula how to get a copy.
    
    Good luck!
    Joyce
    

    Joyce,
          Thank you for the information.
    
    Dov