Page 12 - The Jewish Voice - May '24

Page 12, The Jewish Voice

Local Happenings from page 11 One of the most
poignant moments
resources and organizing events like the transformative of the seder was
musical “Freedom Song,” Temple Israel engages with issues the singing of the
of addiction, homelessness, and mental health, recognizing the Four Quest ions,
interconnectedness of human struggles. traditionally asked
The Temple’s dedication to addressing local needs is by the younges t
evident in their involvement with organizations like the CROS person present. These
Ministries, The Lord’s Place, and Inner City Innovators. Through questions probe the why’s and how’s of Passover
volunteer work and donation drives, they provide vital support practices, underscoring the importance of curiosity
to vulnerable populations, embodying the Jewish value of and inquiry in Jewish tradition. Rabbi Strauss shared
compassion in action. Whether collecting supplies for inner-city a profound teaching: “There is nothing less significant
youth, advocating for the unhoused, or collecting food for those than an answer to a question that has not been asked.”
facing food insecurity, Temple Israel actively seeks to uplift This sentiment resonated deeply with the participants,
marginalized voices and enact meaningful change. emphasizing that the essence of freedom lies in the ability
TI’s dedication to social justice extends beyond local to ask questions.
borders, as evidenced by their Civil Rights Journeys. By Furthermore, Rabbi Strauss introduced the congregation
retracing the steps of the Civil Rights Movement and fostering to the concept of “Dayenu,” a Hebrew word that translates
interfaith dialogue, they honor a legacy of activism and inspire to “it would have been enough.” This part of the seder
meaningful change in the present day. This year, Temple Israel expresses gratitude for the multitude of blessings
is hosting its second annual trip alongside Inner City Innovators bestowed by God, teaching a lesson in appreciation and
Founder Ricky Aiken and Reverend Kevin Jones to further contentment. Through “Dayenu,” the attendees learned to
community connections. acknowledge and celebrate each step of their ancestors’
Temple Israel’s tireless efforts exemplify the transformative journey toward freedom, a lesson that transcends religious
potential of collective action and compassion. By embracing boundaries.
the principles of tikkun olam, manifest social justice, they not Pastor Graeser reflected on the seder as a “profound
only repair the world but also build bridges of understanding learning experience” for his congregation. He mentioned
and solidarity across communities. As they continue to expand Passover, or Pesach, commemorates the Israelites’ that religion is “caught, not taught” and that the Passover
their partnerships and initiatives, Temple Israel stands as a Exodus from Egypt, and it is observed through the seder, seder is a model for how spirituality and religious
beacon of hope, reminding us that true repair begins with a a ritual feast that involves the retelling of this ancient practices can be shared with our youth.
commitment to service and empathy. story. For many members of Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, The collaboration between Temple Judea and Holy
their familiarity with the Exodus story had been limited Spirit Lutheran Church stands as a testament to the power
Harmony and Horseradish: to biblical text. However, having recently returned from of interfaith dialogue and shared experiences. By inviting
Rabbi Strauss to lead the Passover seder, the church
a trip to Israel last year, the desire to transform historical
The Story of an Interfaith knowledge into a living memory was stronger than ever. members not only gained insight into Jewish traditions
but also experienced the universal themes of freedom,
This led to the idea of inviting Rabbi Strauss to lead a
Passover Experience seder, not just as a meal but as a vivid educational and inquiry, and gratitude that Passover embodies.
spiritual experience. This memorable event underscored the importance of
In a unique interfaith gathering that bridged The gathering was centered around the Hagadah, coming together to learn from one another, celebrating
communities and faiths, Rabbi Feivel Strauss, associate the text that guides the Passover seder. The Hagadah, both our differences and our common humanity. As
rabbi at Temple Judea, led an engaging Passover seder which literally means “retelling,” is not merely read but communities continue to seek ways to connect and
at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, hosted by Pastor Jim experienced, allowing participants to immerse themselves understand each other, such gatherings shine as beacons
Graeser. This special event came on the heels of the church in the narrative of liberation and redemption. “The of hope, demonstrating the potential for unity and mutual
members’ intensive study group on the book of Exodus, Passover seder is not something to read about but to respect across diverse faiths.
sparking a profound interest in experiencing the Jewish experience,” Rabbi Strauss emphasized, highlighting the
tradition of Passover firsthand. dynamic nature of this tradition. Local Happenings on page 13

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