jewish religion and culture (ritual, attend, America, experience, pray)

[Lintu]

One of the religions I'm seriously considering looking into is Reform Judaism. I was just wondering, for those of you who chose Judaism: What is it like to be a part of a religion so closely tied to culture? In the US of course, there is such a strong Ashkenazic (sp?) culture. Is it hard to participate in the religion when the culture is not what you were brought up with? What about Jewish holidays? Is it weird to celebrate them if your own heritage isn't Jewish?

(I've heard it said that the souls of future converts were present at certain events in Jewish history...fascinating!)

[jewscout]

I've found that the congregation i go to, a modern orthodox one, is a very warm and inviting one. I really don't find the difference in culture all that difficult, but then again i've always been a person who likes to experience different cultures so it wasn't that far of a stretch. I think as far as, say, holidays go the only thing that becomes an issue is living in a non-jewish nation and trying to participate in jewish life. By this i mean there are times when you have to take off for holidays that get in the way of normal american life. It's not that bad a day here a day there but they all tend to fall at the same time. I think the holidays can be a little weird if your not familiar with them but they are also excellent experiences. Have you participated in Shabbat yet? Its a wonderful experience that i look forward to each and every week. Just a day to reflect and to get in touch with my spiritual side.

I have heard that those who are non-jews and are called to Judaism were there at Sinai in a former life

[Lintu]

I'm going to Erev Shabbat this Friday. I'm excited about it, but a little scared. It's at a synagogue well known for being open and welcoming, but it's always scary to stick out.

I was reading a Jewish prayer last night, the Hashkiveinu, for stress relief, and I really and truly felt comforted. It was great. So, I can't wait til Friday

[jewscout]

I really love Sholom Alaichem.

[Jayhawker Soule]

Originally Posted by Lintu

I'm going to Erev Shabbat this Friday. I'm excited about it, but a little scared. It's at a synagogue well known for being open and welcoming, but it's always scary to stick out.

You'll be just fine. Have a great Shabbat.

[Jayhawker Soule]

Originally Posted by jewscout

I've found that the congregation i go to, a modern orthodox one, is a very warm and inviting one.

If you ever have the chance, attend a Yemenite Shabbas. It's almost revivalist.

[goodjewishboy]

I have heard that those who are non-jews and are called to Judaism were there at Sinai in a former life

I like that, I have a friend that has converted to Judaism and another in the process. They have both expressed that they have always felt they were born jewish, just not raised as such. Isn't it said that all Jewish souls were at Siani?

[Simon the Cat]

I am sure you will be able to find a nice synagogue where ever you go. My husband is not Jewish but he seems to like celebrating all the holidays. That being said, I think that it has been difficult for him to not really celebrate Christmas in the house (we go to his parents house). The rest, however, is easier.

[Bright-ness' Shadow]

Originally Posted by jewscout

I've found that the congregation i go to, a modern orthodox one, is a very warm and inviting one. I really don't find the difference in culture all that difficult, but then again i've always been a person who likes to experience different cultures so it wasn't that far of a stretch. I think as far as, say, holidays go the only thing that becomes an issue is living in a non-jewish nation and trying to participate in jewish life. By this i mean there are times when you have to take off for holidays that get in the way of normal american life. It's not that bad a day here a day there but they all tend to fall at the same time. I think the holidays can be a little weird if your not familiar with them but they are also excellent experiences. Have you participated in Shabbat yet? Its a wonderful experience that i look forward to each and every week. Just a day to reflect and to get in touch with my spiritual side.

I have heard that those who are non-jews and are called to Judaism were there at Sinai in a former life

Jewscout doen't know it yet but I'm going to ask him to take me to his temple one day. Not for conversion but to learn more about the traditions of Jewry. Will they allow "whispered" instruction?

Bob

[Simon the Cat]

In most temples, people talk pretty much non-stop throughout the service. Sometimes not in whispers either. In some congregations the congregants don't even face the bima (alter) but rather each other - so to better discuss the reading of the day. It varies from congregation to congregation but generally, expect it to be a lot louder and less formal than a christian service.