About Rabbi Schindler
Making A Name for Ourselves By Opening Our Doors
 This
past month we opened the book of Genesis and read the story of the
people of Babel, who mistakenly thought that they could make a name for
themselves by building a tower whose top would reach the sky. We learn
from this text of Torah that names are made not through monuments that
soar heavenward, but through buildings and programs that reach outward
to draw others in.
Beth El has clearly made a name for itself as a congregation that is
welcoming to interfaith families and that reaches out warmly to those
who want to learn more about Judaism and find a doorway into our faith.
This is evident in the national recognition that Beth El has received
for its Interfaith and Outreach Programs, and in the many presentations
our Interfaith and Outreach Director, Stephanie DiPaolo, has made across
the country.
While for centuries our people, out of fear of persecution, hesitated to
open our doors to future Jews-by-Choice, today we are far more
confident. My father used to say that just as when we read a good book
or when we see a good movie we enthusiastically recommend it to others,
we should likewise let those who are “un-churched” know how great our
faith and community can be.
In just a few weeks, our congregation will take a bold step in Outreach
programming as we host a regional conference on conversion. Beginning
with Shabbat dinner on November 16th and ending with havdalah on the
early evening of November 17th, Beth El will be opening its doors both
to individuals across the region who are curious about Judaism and to
professionals who want to reflect on their work in Outreach. We invite
you to come to any segment of the Shabbaton: the Friday night
Scholar-in-Residence, the Saturday morning performance of the popular
play “Through the Water” based on true stories of our Beth El
congregants who converted to Judaism, or any of our meals and workshops
throughout this special Shabbat. If you have a friend or family member
who is spiritually seeking, this is the perfect time to invite them
along, to one program or all.
For more information on this exciting weekend, or to make reservations
please contact Stephanie DiPaolo, our Interfaith and Outreach Director
at sdipaolo@beth-el.com or
704-749-3051.
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A Rabbi's Reflections