Since February, Ann Green and I
have been fortunate enough to be sponsored by Temple Israel in a new cohort of
learning sponsored by Hebrew College and the CJP Boston-Haifa Connection. Our teachers are Rachel Raz and Linna
Ettinger/ Through the subject A
Person is a Tree of the Field (Deut. 20:19), we have explored the
diversity of trees—and people, how we can help students and families make the
most of their roots and branches to reach their full potential, etc.
In the first session, we teachers
explored our own identities and examined how they influence our teaching. Using words and blank spaces, I described
myself as “I am a dedicated American Jewish educator in a very committed Temple
Community.” (Temple Israel). We also
created nametags that would identify our strengths and interests; mine is in
the photo below.
In our second session, we studied
The Tapestry of the American Jewish Community. Guest speakers from the
Reform and Modern Orthodox movements and from outreach to interfaith families
spoke to describe their aims. Temple
Israel’s Rabbi Daniel Liben represented the Conservative movement. We considered,
“How welcoming are we to different groups?”
Then we observed diversity in the
Israeli community, so that we might better understand life in Israel and in the
Israeli community in Boston. There are
many kinds of Israelis, from secular to observant. Israel, like the United States, is a nation
of immigrants. We sampled foods from Morocco and other Jewish
regions. We observed different styles of
synagogue architecture and even if the synagogues needed guards for protection.
We also listened to various versions of Adon Olam.
In our most recent class, we learned
about the family dynamic. Using the
symbolism of trees, how do we nourish children and their families? Does each tree have enough room to grow? Some trees are evergreen, while others need
to shed leaves as they absorb energy for future growth. Some ideas we encourage are Jewish and
universal values, safe place to be, warmth, and community. We try to help everyone put down strong roots
and grow healthy branches. Most
important is a sense of Jewish identity.
Thank you, Temple Israel, for
sponsoring Ann and me in this opportunity for growth as educators.
Judy Azer
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