Interfaith Families
As an inclusive synagogue that celebrates uniqueness, Adath Shalom welcomes interfaith families. Our Rabbi warmly invites you to explore our open-hearted community.
Brit Milah (Bris) and Naming Ceremonies
Brit Milah (ritual circumcision) is the rite though which a baby boy is welcomed into our Jewish community, and he receives his Hebrew name. Rabbi Rudin will be happy to assist in planning and participate in celebrating of this meaningful ceremony. Upon the birth of a daughter, the Rabbi will be delighted to discuss the options for a naming ceremony in the synagogue and/or in your home.
Bar and Bat Mitzvah
The Bar/Bat Mitzvah is when we welcome your Jewish child to be fully participating adults in our Jewish community. We have opportunities for all family members to participate in the service, regardless of faith. Parents and other family members can be called to the bimah for tallit presentations, passing the Torah through the generations, participating and leading prayers, and sharing blessings. The rabbi is happy to discuss your family’s specific needs, and help all family members to be comfortable celebrating this meaningful rite of passage.
Weddings/Commitment Ceremonies
The union of a couple is always a celebratory event. Adath Shalom’s clergy will be delighted to meet with couples contemplating marriage or commitment ceremony, and offering guidance in planning, counseling (if wanted) and options of officiating. Mazal Tov!
Funerals
Our clergy and community are here to support the special needs of our interfaith families during times of loss and mourning. Jewish rituals and customs are guided by two basic principles: respecting the dead and comforting mourners. Judaism offers much in the way of mourning practices, and many Jewish traditions are universal in their ability to provide solace at a time of loss. Our clergy are available for to discuss rituals and observances that may be helpful in a time of mourning, along with comfort and support. Click for detailed information about what to do when a loved one dies. [link to when a loved one dies page]
Jewish Education
One need not be Jewish to take advantage of the many diverse educational opportunities offered at Adath Shalom. Everyone is welcome to our adult education programs. Children of interfaith couples may join our religious school programming (K-12), provided the child is Jewish or there is intent for the child to be converted to Judaism. We have preschool programming to engage our littlest mitzvah makers. Our nurturing community allows all members grow their knowledge of Judaism.
Services
Weekday, Shabbat, and holiday services are all open to members of all faiths. We welcome you to join us anytime. If you are less familiar with the service, we would be happy to have someone sit with you during worship.
Other Community Educational & Social Activities
There is always something happening at Adath Shalom. Check out our busy calendar of events. There are many ways you might choose to get involved in our congregation! Try out our sisterhood, our chesed (caring) committee, or take a Hebrew class.
Conversion
Adath Shalom welcomes you to explore our community, and to feel embraced as you make your journey towards becoming a Jew. Choosing to be Jewish is an evolutionary process that culminates in the adoption of a new cultural, spiritual, national, and even historical identity. Conversion to Judaism requires serious study, active participation in Jewish holiday and lifecycle events, and, finally, a ritual moment of acceptance and affirmation.
Rabbi Rudin is happy to meet with individuals curious about converting, and also conducts ongoing classes that might be appropriate for candidates for conversion. Please contact Rabbi Rudin if you are interested.
Let's Get to Know Each Other!
Our clergy and leadership are pleased to invite your family to make our synagogue your spiritual home. If you are an interfaith couple or someone whose life has been touched by an interfaith relationship and would like to learn more about our efforts at Adath Shalom, please contact us. Alternatively, please feel free to contact Rabbi Rudin, or join us for one of our services or events. We would love to meet you!