Not Worthy?

A few weeks ago, my daughter and I signed up for and began attending classes in various Jewish subjects - spirituality, history, Torah - for the purpose of becoming more informed and more knowledgeable. Wednesday we were told it was "not appropriate" for us to continue attending these classes since our conversion had been with a Reform rabbi. We could continue if we were interested in going through an Orthodox conversion - something that, at this point in my life is not possible. The upheaval would land me in the poorhouse. I knew the Orthodox did not accept Reform conversions. I did not know that extended to sitting in a classroom for the purpose of learning more about Judaism and studying Torah.

We's been attending for about six weeks. Our name is a dead giveaway that something is going on - it's not one that you would typically associate as being Jewish. But neither are Gordon, Stewart, Smith, Grant - any number of "typical goyim" surnames -- and I know "real" Jews with those names. But the question was never raised (for all they knew, I was married to a non-Jew but a "real" Jew myself). My daughter, however, was questioned about 2 weeks ago and of course, she was honest about our conversion. I guess that's what initiated this expulsion.

Talk about wandering in the desert.

I liken it to how some people might freak out upon discovering someone they've liked for a long time is gay. When they didn't know, it didn't matter.

It's not the first time a door has been slammed in my face and probably won't be the last. I respect their beliefs, and if this is the way it is, so be it. It's kind of hurtful that we sat there for all this time believing we were welcome, only to be politely shown the door.

It's been hard in recent years for us to find a congregation we felt comfortable in for many reasons. So I guess it's back to wandering until we get to the Promised Land!

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving - we did! Too much food, including banana pudding and faux Tiramisu!

Wisdom of the Fathers

The , Pirkei Avot,or Ethics of the Fathers, is a well known Jewish text containing teachings and sayings of of the Rabbis of the Mishnaic period of Judaism. Here is one that seems to speak to us quilters:

You are not required to finish the task, but neither are you allowed to desist from it completely.

Pirke Avot, 2:16

Seems to be talking about UFOs, doesn't it?

Shana Tova

We celebrated Rosh Hashanah at the Atlanta kollel this year, with Rabbi Freitag. I love his enthusaism and sense of humor. The Kollel is an Orthodox shul but they seem to be focused on the spiritual, on education and learning.

This year I am enrolling in the Kollel Institute, a three year program of Jewish studies. I think this will be my path to reconnecting with a Jewish community. Since we left our synagogue, we have not found another place to worship and be with other Jews. In my part of the world, unlike Baptist churches, there is not a temple on every corner. We must drive a minimum of 20 miles, which would be fine if we could find a place where we felt welcome and comfortable.

I'm excited about the Kollel Institute. Studies include Jewish history, mysticism, ritual, and of course, Torah. Three whole years of learning. I can't wait.

The best part is that my daughter wants to come with me. Even more reason to feel this is a good thing.

Good Yontif!