Article Discussion: My First Purim

[admin]

Click here to read the article:My First Purim

[Unregistered]

Anthony, if you and Oren are ever in Manhattan, check out Shabbat services at Congregation Beth Simchat Torah (CBST).  Lot's of non-Jewish people go there, even straight people go there, there are lots of families with kids - it's a wonderful community.

[G.B.]

I'm having a difficult time understanding why this author feels so passionate about raising his children in a religion that firmly believes his own orientation is an abomination, his partner is unsaved, and his future family is sinful.

Raising a child in two different religions is problematic and confusing enough, but why fight to include one that will teach your children their daddies are going to hell?

 

[Benjamin Maron]

G. B.,

Not every branch or denomination within Judaism shares the same views on sexuality or gender identity. Reconstructionist, Reform and Renewal are the most welcoming and accepting. Conservative has made halakhic decisions, some more positive than others, with regard to LGBT Jews. These four denominations/movements will ordain openly gay Jews; clergy affiliated with them are permitted to officiate at same-sex weddings. Orthodoxy is split, with some Orthodox lay leaders and rabbis being more welcoming than others, embracing more progressive halakhic opinions than others.

But to choose between one's religion and one's sexuality is not an easy choice for many. (Not even for those "choosing" religion via their interfaith relationship.) Thankfully, there are supportive organizations working towards the inclusion of all Jews, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, in our communities. For more information, you might take a look at Keshet's resource or the Jeff Herman Virtual Resource Center.

[G.B.]

Benjamin, I was referring to Catholicism in my post. While Judaism's different branches have different views ranging from complete acceptance to mild disapproval, Catholicism is unequivocal in their condemnation of homosexuality. For that reason alone, it's difficult to see how someone who is gay could want to raise their children in a religion that teaches them their family structure is against god's teachings.