Ohev Shalom Moves to Create More Inclusive Environment for Interfaith Families, Hosts First Interfaith Sharing Shabbat on Nov. 21

RICHBORO--- Interfaith families who previously felt that Conservative Judaism was not a match for them will find a new and welcoming spiritual, social and educational home at Ohev Shalom of Bucks County.

In his Yom Kippur sermon, Ohev Shalom’s Rabbi Eliott N. Perlstein introduced a new concept to his Conservative congregation: Minhag America - an American Jewish custom that will best serve the American Jewish community. More than a phrase, it represents a broad congregational focus on inclusiveness that ensures everyone a place in the Jewish community.

The spiritual leader of the Conservative synagogue in Bucks County recognized that area interfaith couples and families desire more inclusionary approaches to worship, and he announced that Ohev Shalom’s “Minhag America” would set the stage to provide it – a milestone for this congregation. To promote greater engagement of interfaith families and couples in the Jewish community, Ohev Shalom will host an Interfaith Sharing Shabbat on Nov. 21, 2014. The Friday night service will celebrate inclusion and will feature inspiring “how we do it” stories shared by interfaith families, as well as child-friendly activities.

“We are inviting all who wish to establish a connection with their partner’s or family’s Jewish heritage to join us. Through this effort, we hope to promote better understanding and increased involvement of the non-Jewish partner in the traditions and rituals that define Judaism,” explained Rabbi Perlstein. “Families need to feel that all their members are supported and welcomed by our community, regardless of whether or not they are Jewish. Acceptance serves to help the family grow stronger and more deeply connected, despite differences in beliefs.”

In addition to planning this landmark program, Ohev Shalom has created the synagogue’s first Interfaith Family Outreach Committee comprised of congregants interested in understanding how the synagogue can best address the issues and needs of interfaith families. Committee membership is open to all Ohev Shalom members and family members, regardless of religious affiliation.

Rabbi Perlstein emphasized, “This is the beginning of many conversations that will be initiated to ensure that any family or individual can fully participate in the many facets of Jewish observation and education, enriching the lives of all.”

Ohev Shalom’s Nov. 21, 2014 Interfaith Sharing Shabbat is open to all, and young children are welcomed. The service will run from 6-7 PM. For interfaith families, the service will offer a wonderful opportunity to experience the warmth and vitality of the Ohev Shalom congregation.

Ohev Shalom of Bucks County is located at 944 2nd Street Pike, Richboro, PA 18954.

ABOUT OHEV SHALOM OF BUCKS COUNTY

Ohev Shalom has been serving the Jewish community of Bucks County since its founding in 1976. Affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, it is a vibrant and dynamic congregation that is committed to serving the spiritual, cultural, educational, and social needs of its congregational family. Ohev Shalom celebrates the uniqueness of each individual and welcomes diversity within its sacred community. For information about Ohev Shalom go to www.ohev.org.