Visit from World Union Jewish Music Cruise on the Iberian Peninsula
On May 3rd, 40 North American delegates from the World Union for Progressive Judaism mission to the Iberian Peninsula, visiting Ohel Jacob to learn more about the changing face of Jewish life in Lisbon. The delegates were moved by the collection of Torah scrolls and Judaica, but learned how important having a Progressive congregation in Lisbon will be to the future of Jewish life in Portugal. The ability – and willingness – of Progressive Judaism welcome all those who wish to identify as Jews stand in contrast to the other Lisbon congregations attitudes towards conversion, interfaith families and those conversos who wish to return to Judaism. Ohel Jacob represents the tent of Judaism: with open flaps, a warm welcome, and a desire to share the warmth and power of a 21st century Jewish community to all who want explore and join with the Jewish people.
There is more than one way to be Jewish, and Ohel Jacob gives us hope for the future.
Rabbi Daniel Freelander
(President, World Union for Progressive Judaism)
