Big Tent Judaism

Jewsbychoice.org

Jewsbychoice.org, an online resource devoted to issues relating to Jewish conversion, has recently undergone a major upgrade. The new Jewsbychoice.org website now incorporates some of today’s best elements of social networking, education and community blogging in a way that easily allows users to share experiences and talk about what it’s like to be a Jew-by-choice.

The website, operated by Avi Montigny, is a wonderful resource for anyone who has either converted, is in the process, or is thinking about conversion. But it’s not limited to Jews-by-choice. The website is a great place to discuss any issues related to Jewish identity in general. Along with creating a space for Jews-by-Choice to explore Judaism, the website also aims to reach all interested parties by providing “a venue where individuals can explore Judaism as an ‘Evolving Religious Civilization’; one with its own unique: culture, history, law, language, literature, music, poetry, art, politics, folkways, ethics, spiritual ideals, and aesthetic values.”

Much like our Shofar listserve and Empowering Ruth program (for male and female Jews-by-choice, respectively), Avi understands that becoming a member of the Jewish community doesn’t end with a dip in the mikvah (ritual bath). Learning the “what’s” and why’s” of Judaism is only step one. Learning the “how to’s” – such as spiritually preparing for Shabbat – is a much more involved process that even Jews-by-birth spend a lifetime pondering. Jewsbychoice.org is a place where everyone, regardless of background or level of affiliation, can come together and share their thoughts.

We encourage you to visit the site and explore its resources. By promoting a myriad of idea and beliefs regarding what it means to be Jewish, the site is an example of what an open and inclusive Jewish community can look like.

1 Comment

1. Hi Levi

   Thank you very much for writing this post promoting our recently relaunched website. Any exposure we can get is of course much appreciated! Also while it is true that I’m currently the main driving force behind JewsByChoice.org (as you mentioned,) is very much a group effort. Were basically a collective of individuals trying to share resources and mutually support one another as we navigate the challenges and opportunities of Jewish engagement.

   Anyhow, thanks again for the support and publicity.

   Be well
   Avi Montigny

   Comment by Avi M — April 13, 2010 @ 2:57 pm

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