A friend I made at National Havurah Committe this year just became editor of the Judaism section of Bella Online, a website for women (see http://www.bellaonline.com/).

What's Havurah? I'm so glad you asked. Havurah means "gathering" in Hebrew. Havurot (plural of havurah) are independent groups that gather to pray, celebrate, study, and change the world. They focus on a passion for Judaism and community. NHC brings these groups together for 1 week in New Hampshire each year. (see http://www.havurah.org/).

I went last year and was amazed by the learning and learned a lot about independent minyins.

Just wondering what other people have discovered that has opened up new horizons in Jewish experience?

Book Recommendations

I'll jump in first. I just finished a great book called "Taking Judaism Personally" by Judy Petsonk. I love this book because, as a convert, I'm always look for role models - what does it mean to be a Jew and how do you live out your most deeply held Jewish values? This book has interviews with dozens of Jews as to how they answered that question. Among the notables are Yitz and Blu Greenburg and both Kushner rabbis.

First Post!

This blog is for everyone participating in T.E.'s Empowering Ruth class. It's a space for anything you've discovered that you want to share with the class.

• book recommendations
• a Jewish class you love
• a new volunteer opportunity
• an idea that's inspired you
• a continuation of our class discussion
• your own d'var Torah on this week's portion
• and anything you can think of!

I'll be send this link to everyone in class. Let me know if you need any help posting.

Valerie