Path to Confirmation

Dear Pathway to Confirmation parents:

One of the elements I've added to this year's curriculum is the study of selected Jewish texts.  In class, we ended up discussing a few quotes attributed to Rabbi Hillel and talking about Hillel, Shammai, and the old tale about the man who approached both rabbis with the request to "teach me everything about Judaism while I'm standing on one foot."  Many of the students hadn't heard that story before, and I think that they enjoyed it.

We continued with our Prism project study of materials related to civil rights, social justice, women and Judaism, LGBTQ issues, and what we do in our temple to "love our neighbor."  Per a few requests last week, I also curated a new board with articles about "Judaism and Environmentalism."  Most of the students have already settled in with subjects that they like, but we'll see how it all develops.  I also gave them my suggestions for their projects, which they will be presenting on November 14, before the Thanksgiving break.  

Lastly, both our class and the Confirmation class met with Ed Ginsberg, a Temple Israel member and Marist professor, to discuss the legal case of the Queen vs. Dudley and Stevens and the question "Is it morally acceptable to kill one person in order to save multiple lives?" A fascinating discussion followed. I am so glad that Mr. Ginsberg is making time to run these "Hot Topic" sessions every month. 

Speaking of Hot Topics, I'd like to recommend the documentary "Freedom Summer," (available on Prime). It provides additional background to the "Civil Rights" piece we are studying, including the abduction and murder of Michael Schwerner, Andrew Goodman, and James Chaney in the fight for registering blacks to vote.  It is an important part of understanding black history and racism in this country and the importance of being able to vote and make your voice heard. 

Best wishes for a wonderful week,

Morah Judy