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Beth Tikvah Congregation Outreach
God loves the stranger, providing food and clothing for each one. You too must love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt. Deuteronomy 10:19
As a Reform Congregation we are committed to actively welcoming all and building a vibrant, inclusive congregational community. Outreach is one of the ways we do this. Outreach activities center on the mitzvah of ahavat hager, loving the stranger - anyone who feels distanced from Judaism, God, Torah and Israel. Outreach is focused on welcoming to our community a diversity of Jews and their families, interfaith and inter-racial couples, Jews By Choice and those interested in Judaism, Jews of color, gay and lesbian individuals and families, single adults and blended families, rich and poor, young and old and in between, women and men.
If your life has been touched by an interfaith relationship or if you are exploring Judaism, Beth Tikvah Outreach is here to offer guidance and support. We offer opportunities to share your experiences and learn from others in a non-threatening, friendly environment. The goal of Outreach is to offer supportive programming with the help of our rabbi, cantor, educators and facilitators. If there are any interfaith issues in your family, please feel free to contact Beth Tikvah Outreach at outreach@beth-tikvah.org to ask any questions. We strive to reflect the views and orientations of all members and the community.
Outreach is focused on:
* Welcoming new Jews-by-choice and educating those investigating Judaism.
* Welcoming interfaith families to take part in synagogue life, to learn more about Judaism, and to raise their children as Jews.
* Inspiring Jews to engage more fully in the synagogue community, especially those who feel disconnected or distant.
* Educating and sensitizing the congregational community to be accepting of all that seek a place in our congregation.
* Educating the entire community on Jewish customs and practices.
Even though Beth Tikvah operates from a Jewish perspective, we do not proselytize or pressure anyone to convert. In fact, Judaism regards any coerced conversion as invalid. However, anyone who wants to learn more about Judaism or conversion to Judaism should discuss their feelings and concerns with the Rabbi.
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