Monday and Tuesday this week were a holiday, and Rutgers Hillel's conservative Jewish community organized a walking group into town to join one of the local synagogues for services and lunch. And I discovered something truly special: a synagogue where I felt like I belonged.
In this synagogue, everyone sits together, and most of the women cover their heads. The service alternates weeks men-only and women-inclusive, and the congregation splits for Torah reading. The prayers following the Torah reading are led by the official leader (not the Rabbi), who happens to be a man. (I'm not sure if that was deliberate or not.) In short, this is a synagogue calling itself conservative, with an orthodox-style service that includes women. Perfect!
Oh, and there is a national union of LGBT Jews, and they are holding their annual conference at my college this year! I am so going.
Also, I got myself a new book called Torah Queeries, with commentary by queer Jewish authors on the weekly Torah portions. I am going to make reading the weekly commentary part of my getting ready for the sabbath routine.
I refuse to choose between my lesbianism and my Judaism. I am learning and growing in both.
About Me
- free_to_dream
- I am a bipolar, Jewish young adult (had my Hebrew birthday, the one I count, and turned 23 this past January) who also suffers from Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. I love life and I live for my best friends: they are my purpose and my reason for trying so hard. I remain passionately devoted to those I love; I will not let my disorders make me totally self-centered. I like to read, write, and sew. My Rabbinical school plans did not work out, and I am now hoping to go into the field of Early Childhood Education. Please note: I am currently maintaining only Carried in His Hands. Enjoy!
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