What does the Navy and the Jewish Outreach Institute have to do with one another? Well, for one, I am involved in both. This past Friday, in front of my co-workers, I was commissioned as a Navy Chaplain Reservist. That means for two days a month and two weeks a year, I will join a Navy unit as their Chaplain. This ceremony marked the culmination of six years of training, which took place on and off throughout rabbinical school. My training has taken me to Newport, RI, Camp Pendleton Corps base just south of San Diego, and to Japan. I have met Jews from all walks of life, from the Marine officer who went to Jewish day school with a friend of mine, to the sailor who had been exploring Judaism with his wife for many years and was thinking about converting. I have lead Torah studies, Shabbat and High Holiday services, and given a nonsectarian prayer aboard a ship in the Pacific Ocean.

As a Navy Chaplain, I am both a rabbi, specifically, and a chaplain, generally. That means I do all the religious functions of a rabbi such as lead services and officiate at life cycle events and am also a resource and counselor to all sailors and Naval officers, no matter what their religion or background.

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Last week I attended a committee meeting for a large Jewish organization where the discussion centered on how the organization can make an impact in the future of the Jewish community. A familiar debate arose: should we concentrate on expanding the Jewish community by including as many people as possible; or on strengthening the “core” through education and the like. In other words, should our efforts go into in-reach or outreach?

Yet this is a false dichotomy; the two should be inextricably linked. If outreach means, as it does at JOI, creating programs and points of contact with Judaism outside of Jewish institutions that are easily accessible, that is, in secular venues, low to no cost, and with no expectation of previous knowledge (only an interest and curiosity about Judaism), and helping people create deeper connections to Judaism and the community, then these new people will help grow and diversify the connected Jewish community.

If in-reach consists of creating quality educational, cultural and religious programs that deepen the knowledge and commitment of affiliated Jews, then this can have a positive impact in reaching the Jews who do not attend the institutions. How? By creating a rich Judaism that people will be attracted to.

The real issue behind the “inreach vs. outreach debate” is: how do interfaith families fit into the equation?

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Coming this Sunday is the next event in JOI’s Tribooka: Jewish Book Brunches for Tykes and Toddlers. Every month, families with kids ranging in age from four to eight come together to listen to a story and create related arts and crafts. So far we’ve highlighted local Jewish writers and storytellers around themes of holidays, kindness to others, and the uniqueness of every individual. This time we’re throwing a birthday party for the State of Israel! The events are free and open to anyone who’s interested, whether you’re Jewish, married to someone Jewish or just interested in the program.

So if you’re in New York City this Sunday May 22, come join us at 10:30 am at Tribakery, 186 Franklin St. between Hudson and Greenwich. Call me, Melinda, at 212-760-1440 or email me at MZalma@JOI.org to let me know you’re coming!

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There was a very nice article in the Boston Jewish Advocate about the Mother’s Day Card sent out on behalf of JOI’s The Mothers Circle Program.

We’ve also been pleased and excited by the positive feedback received via email. Here are some examples.

From Mothers:

• I was really touched by the e-card that you sent out. I am proud that my son and husband are Jewish and am honored to raise my son in such a strong faith and culture. I feel that our family has been welcomed fully into the Jewish Community by your organization, Shalom Baby, Congregation Beth Israel, and the other outreach programs throughout San Diego. Thank you so much for your support. It does mean a great deal.
• I was one, among many of the lucky moms today, who received this beautiful “Virtual Mother’s Day Card,” and felt very rewarded to receive such a special card. Thanks for your kindness. (New Hampshire)
• I appreciate your card and am interested in your organization!
• Thank you, this is a beautiful card that I am pleased to forward.

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