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There Ain't No Such Thing as a Lazy Summer in Rabbinical School
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Lag B'Omer - Friends and classmates gather in my backyard for a make-shift bonfire with s'mores.
It's amazing how the end of the school year feels like such a major transition. Everything culminates. We study for two weeks straight, finishing written finals and exams for 7-8 classes. Ordination nears. Our pulpit experiences end for the year. Religious school finishes. The weather changes. And we all are anxious to begin a different summer routine. Observing our lives during the month of May is almost like watching your favorite TV show build up to its season finale...but not. Yes, it's dramatic to imagine how everything will end; there's even a little suspense and stress involved. But, unlike our favorite TV shows, we rabbinical students don't go on a summer hiatus.
The fifth year rabbinical students will be ordained on June 2nd, and by the time July 1st rolls around, many of them will have packed up, moved on, and begun their careers as "Rabbi."
Getting ready for HUC softball? Yes, we've begun another season of HUC softball, and no we haven't won a game... yet.
Most of my (now fourth-year) classmates will embark on a different summer journey beginning in June: 10 weeks, and 400 hours of Clinical Pastoral Education, lovingly known as CPE. Basically, we will spend the summer in various hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities, learning how to serve as chaplains. The experience includes, but is surely not limited to visiting patients, being present for others, learning from mentors in the field, attending to the spiritual needs of the medical staff, debriefing and 'grouping' with other CPE students, and writing verbatim accounts and reflection papers. I have been placed at Cedar Village here in Cincinnati. I'm told that I will learn an incredible amount about myself as a spiritual person and one who is able to care for others' needs.
Even though I greatly appreciate this requirement of our program and know that it will be an extremely valuable learning and growing experience, I'm a little scared. I can't imagine how emotional this work will be, and how overwhelming it will be at times to be invested in other people's lives, especially when they suffer from illness, concern, confusion, pain, and loss. It will truly be a humbling experience, one that will reveal the most human emotions and instincts. Many times I fear what I don't know and I'm afraid of what I can't "fix" or "do" successfully. But one thing I've already learned throughout the CPE application process is that pastoral care is not about "fixing" or "doing," it is simply about being present for another. So, that is what I am trying to focus on as I approach this summer of growth.
The Reds lost, but we didn't care. Anna and I enjoy a break from studying at the ballpark.
This summer, my other classmates will work at summer camps, staff Jewish social and educational initiatives, go to Israel, take summer classes and write theses, not to mention prepare for the (early) High Holidays! It might feel like no time has passed before we get ready to head back to our respective campuses in the fall.
One thing is sure, though. I'll be back for a few more seasons of rabbinical school. Thank you for sharing the past seasons with me and for taking part in my life at HUC-Cincinnati each month this year. And even if you also won't have a lazy summer, I hope it is fulfilling! L'hitraot.
Posted by Rachel at 3:23 PM
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Acquire for Yourself a Teacher
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Much of what I've learned during the past week of Passover Break has come through some very deep discussions with my mentors here in Cincinnati. We are all very lucky to interact with professors, community rabbis, visiting scholars, and other Jewish professionals on a daily basis. All of them welcome conversation, reflection, and of course formal learning. I've come to treasure the time I have made for these types of encounters. I admit, it is sometimes very difficult to work up the courage to express my ideas and even begin a conversation with someone I consider much more knowledgeable. But, these risk-taking moments have been some of the most valuable of my time spent in rabbinical school. It has been a good exercise to articulate my thoughts and find space to openly discuss my ideas and concerns outside of the classroom.
At work, my many supervisors (the rabbis and educator) offer wonderful guidance, resources, and a medium for discussion and brainstorming. This year, I have put much effort into accomplishing specific goals of the programs in which I am involved whether it is community building in the classroom or during informal programs, encouraging involvement and engagement, or teaching Jewish values. I very much appreciate the staff's level of commitment to these goals as well as their willingness to help me grow while I strive to accomplish them. Specifically while meeting with our educator, I am able to explore various problem-solving techniques, develop my educational philosophy, and learn more about myself as a Jewish teacher. It has also been an incredible opportunity to work with the rabbinic staff as a colleague, tackling congregational concerns, programming, and even teaching together.
The Cincinnati campus also has a formal mentoring program that is sponsored by the Mayerson Foundation. I am paired with a local rabbi of another congregation. We meet on a monthly basis to speak about practical rabbinic skills and theology, liturgy, and ritual since they are common interests of ours. I find our conversations to be fascinating. We hypothetically create different congregational scenarios and share past experiences. Then, I have to articulate what I think, how I would respond and why. These questions are some of the most challenging I've ever been asked. What would I do if a couple I'm marrying calls off the wedding the night before, or if a non-Jew asks me to perform their funeral? Do I really believe in the laws of kashrut or relate to the ritual that is traditionally practiced on Shabbat? How would I invite and encourage discussion surrounding these issues? I often leave my mentoring meetings feeling energized even though the deep thought, itself, is draining.
Just this evening, I had the opportunity of meeting and studying with Joel Grishaver, the co-founder of Torah Aura Publications, an editor, writer and gifted educator. Over dinner with a few other HUC students, professors, and educators, we discussed our goals as Jewish educators. It was wonderful just to listen, to hear what others value and what they perceive our challenges to be. Even though it appeared that we could have spoken for hours more, our conversation was quite productive. This experience made me reflect upon how lucky I am to be in constant dialogue with those who care so passionately about our work.
Posted by Rachel at 4:24 PM
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March Madness
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Going to Purimland! Karen (fifth-year HUC rabbinic intern) and I in costume for the Purim Shpiel – Disney's Estherella – at Wise Temple.
There surely has been much to look forward to during the month of March. I'm not only commenting on the level of college basketball craziness - the gutsy bracket picks, Cinderella teams, top-seeded upsets, and nail-biting overtime wins. There has been plenty more excitement than that. It was fitting that the first half of March fell during the Hebrew month of Adar, when we are commanded to increase the happiness and joy in our lives.
Haman, her henschmen, and Vashti - Evon (fifth-year HUC rabbinic intern) and Daniel (fourth year HUC rabbinic intern) with Barbara (Director of Education) and Rabbi Baden.
Purim (or should I say the week of Purim), as it has been since I arrived at HUC three years ago, is quite a celebration! My class was in charge of this year's campus Purim observance: service / shpiel / Megillah reading. We worked on the event for a full month and staged one pretty extravagant evening, I must say. Highlights of the service were the Barchu performed to Jock Jams "Let's Get Ready to Rumble," enhanced by a roller blade performance (yes, in the sanctuary), a choreographed dance for the V'ahavta, and several Christmas tunes for other few prayers. The Shpiel was a live "Who dunit" mystery with video clips, Broadway tunes, and a staged interrogation of our professors. Everyone came in costume. We spent the entire evening laughing with classmates, professors, and friends of the college.
Next, it was Purim at Wise Temple where I intern. This observance was also an absolute blast. The senior staff, rabbis, and rabbinic interns performed the Disney musical "Estherella" before a full sanctuary of big and little kids – so it seemed that night. One of my roles was the wicked stepsister – humorous. I enjoyed spending time with the staff goofing off and rehearsing. It appears that Purim brings out the best in everyone! I hope that I can help to create such a joyous atmosphere at my future congregation.
Rehearsal Dinner – Celebrating with my brother, Ryan, at his rehearsal dinner
Speaking of simcha (happiness), my twin brother was married last weekend. The weekend felt surreal. It was absolutely wonderful to see my whole family gather to celebrate the marriage of my brother and his new wife. After studying lifecycle events last year in one of my professional development classes, I also couldn't help seeing things through a rabbinic lens. The ceremony was beautiful and extremely meaningful. Our high-school youth group advisor (turned rabbi) officiated, explaining all of the ritual and providing a very touching address. I was given the honor of chanting the sheva berachot. I practiced a lot, but nothing could have prepared me for the emotion I experienced. I forgot all about technique and focused on contributing to the joy of their wedding day. It was very special to stand underneath the huppah to ask for God's blessing upon my brother and sister-in-law.
The Newlyweds – Mazel tov Ryan and Karen!
With the end of March this year also comes the madness of Pesach cleaning and preparation. For the first time, my fiancé and I will host both of our families for seder. Reflection upon that to come next time...
Until then a zisen Pesach (sweet Passover) to all of you!
Oh yeah, and go buckeyes!
Posted by Rachel at 12:25 PM
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Moral Dilemma: What to tell the person sitting next to you on the airplane.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
During the past two weeks, we have missed three days of school due to the snow and ice storms that have hit the Midwest. The scenery around here is beautiful! My classmates and I have not missed any opportunities to take some breaks from our work to enjoy it all.
I had two plane trips planned for the month of January. Both reminded me of how difficult it is to be seated next to a stranger on an airplane; not because I don't mind chatting with people I don't know, but because they inevitably ask the famous, "what do you do for a living?" question. There are three possible reactions:
- Tell my neighbor that I'm a rabbinical student, dodge one million questions, and forfeit any idea of
enjoying a relaxing and peaceful flight.
- Avoid any direct answer to the question.
- Follow the advice of one of my rabbinic mentors and tell my neighbor that I am indeed an actuary.
Ninety-nine percent of the time that will kill the conversation.
While in NYC, it was wonderful to catch up with a few of my classmates that I had not seen since our year in Israel.
During the past three years of rabbinical school, I have been asked to articulate my journey to becoming a rabbi countless times. I really don't mind sharing with others. The follow-up questions and comments often challenge, amuse and interest me. Each time, depending on how I'm feeling or what I'm thinking about most that day, I share different details and reflect upon different influences in my life. So, I apologize if you've heard this story more than once, especially if YOU were the one sitting next to me on my last flight.
I grew up feeling that my Jewish identity was something that made me unique. My twin brother and I are children of an interfaith marriage, and were exposed to both Christian and Jewish ritual at home. Yes, we only celebrated Christmas and Easter in secular ways, but I was left with many questions about what it meant to "be" Jewish. At a young age, I began to ask questions and encouraged my parents to enroll us in religious school and attend temple services and functions more often. I found myself delighted with the opportunities to become an active Jew. Mostly, I looked forward to becoming a Bat Mitzvah. However, because of my late educational start in Hebrew, I did not become a Bat Mitzvah at the usual age of thirteen. I thought I had missed the opportunity, until I began to study with our congregation's new student rabbi.
Marianne Gevirtz, a dynamic rabbinical student from the Hebrew Union College-Cincinnati began serving our congregation on a biweekly basis shortly after we joined the temple. She was the first female rabbi I had ever met. Everything about her intrigued me. During Student Rabbi Gevirtz's visits to our congregation, my family would host her for Shabbat dinner. I had many opportunities to speak with her and ask questions. I admired her tremendously and began to build a personal relationship with her. Throughout my high school and college years, I kept in touch with Rabbi Gevirtz. Her role in my life is a major reason why I am in rabbinical school today. I find it quite humbling and ironic that a female rabbinical student from Cincinnati had such a lasting impact on my personal and religious development.
Fourth years Ari and Noah enjoy the beautiful snow and ice that covers our campus (rear view of the chapel and classroom building)
My participation in Jewish organizations and my interactions with Jewish professionals throughout my high school and college years also greatly influenced my decision to apply to rabbinical school. I tried to take advantage of every opportunity available to me, whether it was serving as a leader in NFTY or at the Hillel Foundation on campus, working with the Diversity Affairs Council, spending time at different Jewish summer camps, and interning with Jewish Family Services. All of these experiences, along with my schoolwork in the Department of Family Studies and Social Work at Miami University helped me realized that I belonged in a helping profession that would grant me the opportunity to apply my religious values and interests. In hindsight, rabbinical school has allowed me to express my love for Judaism and the Jewish people, my passion for learning, and my desire to impact society by helping others.
There you are. (Very) briefly, these are the reasons why I am studying to be a rabbi. By brief I mean in comparison to the ten-page, single spaced reflections of my entire journey which I have written in the past. Rest assured that I have never shared this entire story with another airline passenger. But, do be aware of the questions you ask of others. You might be surprised by the answers.
Posted by Rachel at 3:59 PM
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January's Blog
Monday, January 15, 2007
Me, my mom, dad, brother and his fiancé right before kick-off
I apologize for the short post. I'm checking in following an event-filled month. I have good news, better news, and bad news. Which would you like first?
The bad news: My family did not bring home a national championship trophy following our trip to Arizona to cheer on the Ohio State Buckeyes. We did have a great time...for the first 16 seconds of the football game.
The good news: We finished our first semester finals, papers, and projects. My class is officially half-way through rabbinical school.
The better news: My boyfriend proposed during a surprise trip to New York City! Looks like I'll really be studying the ins and outs of Jewish weddings in the near future.
More next month, I promise.
Celebrating with champagne on the rooftop overlooking the Chrysler Building in NYC
Posted by Rachel at 3:17 PM
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One foot here and one foot there
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Shabbat Dinner - My classmates and I enjoying a very joyous Shabbat song session
I was running a little late this morning. I darted around the house trying to put together my school bag, my lunch, and everything that I would need for the remainder of the day. But nothing appeared to be where I had left it the night before. Finally, I seemed to have pulled myself together; I only needed a pair of shoes.
Black?
Brown?
I put the black one on my left foot and the brown one on my right foot and sped toward the mirror to make a decision...when the doorbell rang. I ran to the front of the house to answer it.
Hmmm, that's funny. I thought they were coming to work on the house TOMORROW.
Now I would have to straighten everything before leaving. So, I scurried to pick up the mess I had just made, finally making it out the door a few minutes later.
I arrived at school and unloaded my computer and books at my favorite study spot. I reached towards my backpack on the floor to dig out the last of my materials, sighing with relief that my day of writing and studying could begin, when I noticed my feet:
Blue polka dot socks,
- One pointy-toed black shoe on my left foot,
- One leather round-toed brown shoe on my right foot.
.....(long pause) Fantastic.
Learning Guitar! Thanks to my very patient classmate, Jen, I have learned ONE guitar chord. It's been a dream of mine to play an instrument...
It's finals week and I appear to be suffering from the running too many directions at once syndrome. I don't feel like I'm handling things too horribly - if only it weren't for the tiniest details! I've had a daily class/study/exercise/work/enjoy life schedule for the past two months. I've turned a few papers in early, already finished a few finals, and even have a handle on my internship work. Yet, the other activities in which I've had one foot have slowed down the world of finals studying and papering-where my other foot tends to linger. Still, I would not give up any of these other commitments.
A few weeks ago, my third year class and the fourth year class headed to Miami University (my alma mater) for the Gerecht Institute on Outreach. Rabbi Ken Kanter (the Director of the Rabbinical School), Rabbi Aaron Panken from the New York campus, and the Union of Reform Judaism (URJ) Department of Outreach planned a very enlightening conference for us. We spent two days learning what our tradition says about conversion, while studying biblical texts and Jewish law. We discussed how we might take a candidate through the process of conversion, and role-played so that we will feel comfortable speaking with someone who approaches us. I discovered how important it is to be an active listener and a supporter of those who are exploring Judaism. We also had the opportunity to discuss our own interfaith backgrounds and to share our experiences with conversion. Perhaps the most meaningful part of the whole conference was interacting with a panel of conversion students and their significant others. They very openly described their experiences with us and reflected upon their emotions throughout the conversion process. We also were able to ask questions of a rabbi who has been out in the field for quite some time. Even though we were away from campus, missing class for two days, this was one of the most helpful professional experiences I've had all year.
Cheering on the Buckeyes - My boyfriend, Doug, and I cheer on The Ohio State Buckeyes during the Michigan game. Stay tuned in January for a live post from the National Championship Game - Go Bucks!
Because of the Gerecht Institute, we all have been making up class time and trying to catch up with our assignments. Fortunately, though, our American Jewish History class was rescheduled at a time when we could meet with Dr. Pamela Nadell (professor at American University) and Rabbi Sally Preisand (the first female Reform Rabbi) who were visiting the American Jewish Archives. So, we studied with one of the leading scholars of American Jewish Feminism, meanwhile hearing firsthand what it was like to pave the way for female rabbis. What an opportunity!
In the past few weeks, I have felt very grateful to be a part of the HUC-Cincinnati campus community. Last Shabbat, a few of us gathered at our classmate's home to pray, eat, and celebrate. Often, we hold a "chavurah" type service in one of our living rooms. Everyone brings their own prayer book and we create the service as we go along, picking tunes and offering comments whenever we wish. The service is always spiritually moving, as it is a reflection of where we are at that given moment. This time, after a delicious Italian dinner, we sat around the living room and sang. The harmony of voices was beautiful. The evening reminded me of the joyous Shabbatot we used to spend in Jerusalem together.
This week, students also gathered for Chanukah celebrations at school, one including dizzy dreidel races, a craft/art fair, a high-stakes raffle, and of course sufganiyot (doughnuts) and sweets. Dr. Zola, our History professor, also had my class over for a siyyum (to celebrate the end of classes).
This month otherwise has been an emotional one. At school, we observed World Aids Day with a healing service. A few weeks later, I was able to share the yarzeit of my beloved rabbi and mentor. I very much appreciate the caring and responsive nature of the students and faculty here. It seems that we are able to observe and mark the important occasions that impact us as individuals and also the larger and even global communities of which we are a part. Everyday my classmates and professors remind me what it is like to be a part of a nurturing and supportive Jewish community.
I've been granted incredible learning and growing opportunities here in Cincinnati - academically, personally, and professionally. I'm not sure I'd be as happy if I weren't always doing so many things at once. One thing is clear, though...I better enjoy my time here while it lasts. After this week, I'll be halfway done with rabbinical school.
Maybe when I finish I'll be able to put my shoes on the right feet.
Posted by Rachel at 4:01 PM
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A Special Invitation
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Dinner out for my 25th birthday – gathering at Dave and Busters with friends, classmates, and faculty
One thing I never take for granted about my role as a rabbinical student, is the permission others grant me to enter their lives. Whether I'm at school studying with my classmates or professors, teaching at my student pulpit, making a home tutoring visit, or serving congregants in any other way, I feel privileged to be spending quality time with people I get the opportunity to know very well.
At Wise Temple here in Cincinnati (where I am a rabbinic intern), I have the opportunity to build relationships with my students and their families, along with the rabbis, educator, administrative staff and other rabbinic interns with whom I work. My sixth grade teaching experience has been very interesting. It has been a rewarding challenge for my students and me to relate to each other through our subject material and our relation to it: Hebrew prayers, Jewish values, and God. Our best learning moments are those when we can openly speak about what the prayers mean to us, to whom they might be addressed, and when we feel most connected to them. My students often speak about who God is and what God does. Some see God as a superhero, others see God as Creator, and others as Healer or Parent. I am grateful to have the opportunity to be present with them during the moments when they search to understand prayer, God, and faith.
Still young - my classmate Jen and I dive in to a huge pile of
stuffed animals in the game room
I am invited each week into a family's home to tutor two of their children in Hebrew. Even though it is quite a drive, and late in the evening after a long day of class and teaching, this is one of my favorite hours of my entire week. I have been visiting this family for over a year and a half – since I first moved to Cincinnati. I treasure the relationship we have built. The two kids and I often sit together on the floor of their den, learning prayers, engaging in discussion, and holding our own worship services. We face East, rise when appropriate, and the three of us pray. At points during the service, we create our own prayers and then share with each other. My students can be extremely insightful, caring, and genuine. They really do understand God, and in their respective ways, they understand what it means to be Jewish and what it means to pray. My students invite me into their world, making me thankful to know them. They even help me pray-reminding me that no one can ever thank God enough for their family, friends, and for the simple things we do everyday. According to them, we should even be thankful for the sports and games that God lets us enjoy. We talk about if God cares who wins the Ohio State-Michigan football game, and why it is so important for us to do things that we enjoy-like playing soccer, basketball and video games. To them, being Jewish means doing all of these things – and that surely God would agree.
A few weekends ago, I had the privilege of returning to the student pulpit which I served last year. Every month I traveled the 5 hours by car to southern West Virginia, to the small mountain town of Beckley. When I made my final visit for the year, after officiating at a very special Bat Mitzvah, I didn't understand how I could not return the following year. How was I supposed to leave after building such close relationships with them? During every monthly visit, I would stay with one of the families in the congregation. I joined them for Shabbat dinner, stayed up late with them to chat about their lives, met their friends and family, accompanied them to social gatherings, and was their guest as they showed me the pleasures of living and being a Jew in southern West Virginia. When I returned to Beckley this time, I was immediately reminded of why I valued my visits so much. I felt like I had never left. Our Shabbat service, although small, was as vibrant and connective as ever, the discussions during oneg intense and meaningful, and adult education well attended and extremely insightful. During "Temple Time" (religious school), I noticed how much the kids have grown and matured, and too, realized how much we shared during the few precious hours we spent together each month. They are like sponges, soaking up as much Jewish learning and experience as they can.
One of the best birthday surprises- my classmates Lisa and Anna surprised me with a cake decorated like the ark in our college chapel. It was beautiful-and they knew I would appreciate it!
For Shabbat lunch, a couple who is new to the congregation and to the area invited me to their home. We ate a delicious lunch of herring and salads while we discussed religious life, values, Israel, our families, and yes, even Talmud. It was a delightful afternoon. Before I left, they invited me to bless their new home. They told me why it is important that they hang a mezuzah on their doorpost and how they plan to create a Jewish home. Then, we stood outside their door as we recited the Shema and the blessing for the mezuzah. I asked God to bless them and we all reflected upon the meaning of the moment. It was special to be a part of this transition in their lives.
That night, the temple president and I drove an hour south, deeper into the mountains, to meet more congregants and Jewish residents of the surrounding areas for Havdalah. We were trying to reach out and bring a little bit of Judaism to those who cannot travel to the temple every month. The evening was pretty magical. Over thirty people gathered-young children and adults of all ages- most of them were new to the congregation. I met with a young girl who is beginning to study for her Bat Mitzvah. At age twelve, she's just now learning Hebrew with a family friend and congregant who is tutoring her and teaching herself Hebrew at the same time. They were both excited, curious, and open to learning from each other. Havdalah that evening inspired us all. We spoke about renewing ourselves and our faith each week and how Jewish ritual –then especially the wine, the spices, and the fire- help us do that. On the way home, the temple president and I spoke about how successful this weekend was for their congregation. I thanked him for including me, and for continually welcoming me to be a part of their lives.
These encounters are only a few of those that I treasure everyday. The amazing and wonderful thing is that I never know what my time with someone will entail. That is something that unfolds uniquely in each conversation and interaction. I am very grateful for these opportunities to be present with others.
Posted by Rachel at 11:16 AM
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Rabbinical Students have layers
Saturday, October 7, 2006
Dessert in the Sarason's Sukkah: My professors and fellow HUC Cinci
classmates enjoy a spread of desserts in Dr. Sarason's sukkah.
SHREK: For your information, there's a lot more to [rabbinical students] than people think.
DONKEY: Example?
SHREK: Example? Okay, um, [rabbinical students] are like onions.
DONKEY: [Sniffs] They stink?
SHREK: Yes. No!
DONKEY: They make you cry?
SHREK: No!
DONKEY: You leave them out in the sun, they get all brown, start sprouting' little white hairs.
SHREK: No! Layers! Onions have layers! [Rabbinical students] have layers! Onions have layers. You get it? We both have layers. [Sighs]
The various roles that I have assumed within the past two weeks remind me of this quote from the movie Shrek. While I am (and can only be) one person, I have many, many layers. At times, the amount of activities in which I am involved makes me feel a little tense. But everyday, I appreciate the various ways in which these layers bring enrichment to my life. Considering how fast I move from activity to activity, from day to day, it is important for me to maintain perspective, to consider how everything in my schedule contributes to my rabbinical career and to my personal character. In this way, I don't "peel off" and disregard my layers as I go. I try, in the least, to reflect upon them and everything I have the opportunity to do.
The above conversation between Shrek and Donkey is the first time that Shrek lets go of his tough-masculine-ogre façade. He then is able to bring Donkey into his world, to show him that he is more than just a big ogre. Donkey learns that Shrek has other qualities that no one ever considers. In the same way, I hope that you will enjoy this glimpse into my multi-layered life.
Hiking with Anna: Hiking in Cincinnati with classmate Anna.
My role as a student is usually at the forefront of my mind. It's hard to forget that with eight classes every week. But, my hours sitting in the classroom building absorbing Talmud, Philosophy, Liturgy, Hebrew Literature, American Jewish History, and practicing Homiletics, Professional Development and Liturgy Workshop, make me more than just a student in conventional academic terms. Many of our professors remind us that the material we study allows us to access the lives of generations of rabbis and scholars who came before us. Everything we learn can be applicable to our lives not only as "professionals," but as Jews, as moral human beings. For me, this means that long hours spent studying and reading are very rewarding.
At Wise Temple here in Cincinnati, my Rabbinic Intern role takes on many dimensions. My largest responsibility is designing and implementing a brand new 8th grade post B'nai Mitzvah program. I am trying to engage the 8th graders in a service learning project that empowers them to act and make choices as young Jewish adults. My internship also enables me to teach adults, 5th, 6th, and 7th graders in a variety of settings and capacities. I also enjoy being a mentee, learning from a full staff of experienced rabbis, educators, and administrators. Aside from my pulpit responsibilities at the temple, I drive to Northern Kentucky once a week for a private Hebrew tutoring visit. At Wise, my students, colleagues, and mentors challenge me to articulate my Jewish beliefs. Each one of us gives and each one of us receives. I think it's a beautiful exchange.
Making Dark Chocolate Mocha Chip Ice Cream!:
Don't worry...We eat and live very well! Making homemade ice cream with my classmate, Lisa.
During the High Holidays, I served as the student rabbi at the University of Cincinnati Hillel. It was an incredible experience. The months of preparation leading up to the holidays were extremely beneficial. I learned more liturgy and nusach (traditional musical mode) than I ever had in my life. This was my first time leading High Holiday services without accompaniment. The services, in addition, were much more traditional than I had ever experienced. But, the fullness of the service and its customary ritual helped us all experience the purpose and the emotions surrounding the Days of Awe. I likened it to walking over a bed of rocks with a very thin-soled pair of shoes. We could feel every bump and every smooth place in the service. We could walk and feel the ground we had covered. Services were an encounter with our senses-spiritually, emotionally and physically. The unique diversity of the kahal (community), their responsiveness and participation, and our beautiful surroundings only further enhanced the worship experience. I'm excited to return to Hillel this week to teach a lunch and learn session.
At school, I also fill a role on the Rabbinical Student Association, representing the
Va'ad Beit HaKnesset (or the prayer and ritual committee). I am involved with the planning and organizing of the campus's liturgical calendar-which keeps track of the daily, Shabbat, and festival services and celebrations that take place on campus. If you haven't already noticed, I love tefilah (prayer). There's nothing more worthwhile than taking time everyday to connect to God, to our community, and to my inner self.
Homecoming 2006: Reunion with some of my college friends at beautiful Miami University.
You may be thinking, "My God, does she do anything that's not 'particularly Jewish?!" While I'd love to give you the philosophical reasons why everything I do is part of my Jewish self, I'll answer your simple question. Why, yes! I always leave time to play. I spent most of last weekend at Miami University (my lovely alma mater) with about 25 of my college girlfriends for a Homecoming reunion. While we didn't exactly try to relive our college years, we did do a lot of catching up. The trip was a wonderful reward after a busy High Holiday season. I understand why my rabbi once told me that it's very important to maintain the friendships I treasured before my rabbinical school years.
On other weekends and weekdays I make time to keep up with my exercise and training schedule. I've already begun to think about the Ride for Reform (the bike ride across Israel about which you'll be hearing much more...) which begins in March next year. We'll hopefully be recruiting a slew of HUC riders this year! It is my goal to develop organized rides and a training program for all of the Cinci riders. The hills here should whip us into shape quite quickly!
As I write this blog, we also find ourselves in the middle of the college and professional football seasons, the culmination of the Major League Baseball season, and the beginning of college basketball and college hockey season. What on earth could be better? Because I have to uphold my reputation as a sports-nut, I often find myself studying editions of Sportscenter. Sorry if this sounds a little obsessive, but I must be true in describing my many layers.
Last, and certainly not least, my place within my family is that of an only daughter and a twin-sister. I also try to be the most supportive girlfriend that I can be. I've learned from my family and my close friends that it's not possible to be everything, and it's surely not possible to be everywhere at once. But, it is possible and very important to express how much the people in your life mean everything to you.
So there you have it, my many, many layers. You now have the full overview of my daily life as a third-year rabbinical student. Next time, I'll listen to more of Shrek's wise words...
DONKEY: Oh, it's another one of those onion things isn't it?"
SHREK: "No. This is one of those 'drop it and leave it alone!' things."
THE END
Posted by Rachel at 2:44 PM
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A Not-So-Formal Introduction
Friday, September 15, 2006
Here I am with my bike and HUC cantorial student Ross during
this year's Ride for Reform in Israel.
During the past few months, in the Jewish world of informal education that I often frequent (summer camp, youth group events, Religious School, Hebrew class and even adult education) I've gotten used to introducing myself within the context of name games. "If you were an animal, which animal would you be?" "What item would you not leave home without?" "What ice cream flavor best describes your personality?" Or my favorite, "If you could invite anyone to Shabbat dinner, who would it be?" I'm not going to lie. Comparatively, this [blog] venue is a little foreign. Maybe you'd prefer a formal introduction: who I am, where I'm from, why I've decided to choose the rabbinate as a career, what I think about, and finally what I do. But, I've come to learn that it's more than the answers to these mundane questions that make us the "Jewish professionals in training" that we are. I've learned from my classmates that every single one of us brings a unique personality, a different approach, varying strengths, and distinct backgrounds. And it is these qualities, these quirks and attention to different detail that contribute most to our experiences as student rabbis, cantors and educators.
So, for your information (at least for starters)...
If I were an animal, I'd be a zebra in my first life and a dolphin in my second life. (I thought about being an elephant, but they are apparently the only animals that can't jump. That wouldn't do.) When I was young, I used to wonder what God was thinking when he created the zebra. But, now I understand. No two zebras have the same striped pattern. This is what makes them beautiful, even if at first glance they only appear to be black and white. Next, I'd be a dolphin because the water is my second home. I grew up a swimmer and have always enjoyed competing, playing around in the water, and spending time in the sun.
I would never leave home without my running shoes. Every morning, my trusty running shoes carry me away from the stressful world of a graduate student. While I love my life from 8am to 11pm, it is often the few hours before my official school and professional day that I am able to put life into perspective, to reflect on everything for which I am grateful. Usually during any given point in the year, I like to be training for a particular event. My favorite is the Ride for Reform-a 220 mile bike ride across Israel to raise money for the Israeli Movement for Progressive Judaism. Training focuses me, and reminds me that I really can grow stronger and accomplish a goal that first appears very far out of reach. Aside from biking and running this season, I've also enjoyed playing on HUC's softball team.
Mocha Chocolate Chip Ice Cream from Graeters best describes my personality. Plain and simple-I like coffee. I like the way it tastes, and I like it even better when it's mixed into the very best ice cream in the whole world (you'll have to come to Cincinnati to find out) – oh yeah, with the added bonus of the biggest chocolate chips you've ever seen in your life. But, I'm not going to lie, my coffee habit helps me nicely through my long days which consist of any combination of attending class, studying, teaching midweek Hebrew class or adult ed, working as a rabbinic intern, tutoring b'nai mitzvah students, and spending time with my boyfriend, friends, and classmates. I'm high energy to begin with, so coffee and I get along just fine.
If I could invite anyone to Shabbat dinner, it would be my rabbi, Marianne Gevirtz (z"l). At the impressionable age of 15, my rabbi opened my eyes to the meaning, rewards, and challenges of living a Jewish life. She first came to serve my congregation as a student rabbi from HUC-Cincinnati. She ended up becoming my mentor, my teacher, and the inspiration of my career choice. Rabbi Gevirtz was compassionate, creative, a talented vocalist, and a model human being. She dedicated her life to the Jewish people. She instilled me with many loves, all of which I, too, am happy to share with others. I am thrilled to be in the position that I am...
This summer I was a unit head at Goldman Union Camp Institute. Pictured here with Liz (HUC-Cinci), Elise, Becky, Dan (HUC-Cinci), and Ilana - other leadership staff members.
Oh, I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Rachel. I'm 24 years old and a 3rd year rabbinical student at HUC-Cincinnati. I grew up in Springfield, Ohio, and graduated from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where I majored in Family Studies and Social Work with a minor in Jewish Studies. I currently serve as a rabbinic intern at Isaac Mayer Wise Temple, here in Cincinnati. At school, I have the honor of representing the Va'ad Beit HaKnesset, coordinating prayer services, and ritual observance on our campus.
You'll have to check in later for more updates regarding my life in Cincinnati. SHANAH TOVAH U'METUKAH! May it be a sweet year for us all.
Posted by Rachel at 3:27 PM
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