WHAT IS LIBERAL JUDAISM?

“Questing and questioning, Liberal Judaism is an authentic and modern form of Judaism, rooted in a deep and meaningful engagement with Jewish texts, values, culture and history. We are a movement with a sense of purpose, engaged in community life, study, spirituality and social action. We believe in personal freedom and responsibility and the shared and collective bonds that unite us as Jewish people and members of humanity. We actively choose to live out our  Judaism as part of a community, and welcome those who grew up as Jewish and those who, later in life, have become accepted into Judaism. We are inclusive and egalitarian, giving equal status within Judaism to those traditionally excluded. We help all our members to embark on their personal Jewish journeys. We want Judaism to be a positive, joyous and active part of our members’ lives, and for them to use it to enrich their relationships with those around them. ” To read more click here (external site).  Also check out: Affirmations of Liberal Judaism 2006 (Acrobat file).

MITZVAH DAY FOODBANK

For Mitzvah Day 2012 the Wessex Liberal Jewish Community is supporting the Trussell Trust Foodbank in Bournemouth. This is a vital service providing food to local people in temporary crisis (e.g. because their benefits have stopped or been delayed and they have no income until this is sorted out).

Mitzvah Day is a Jewish led day of social action.  On Mitzvah Day, around the world, thousands of people take part in hands-on projects, without fundraising, to support charities and to build stronger communities.

Our mission is to reduce hardship and poverty, to help our environment and to bring a little joy – hands-on – no fundraising. It is a way for all of us to make our mark regardless of our affiliation, wealth, age, sex or nationality.

Mitzvah Day is based on the Jewish values of tikkun olam (repairing the world), tzedek (righteousness) and gemilut chassadim (acts of lovingkindness).

Trussell Trust Foodbanks are run through local churches and we are happy to support local Christians in the spirit of interfaith cooperation and understanding..

Bournemouth has 19 areas in the list of the 20% most deprived areas of Britain. For local stories of real people helped by this initiative click here. To visit the Trussell Trust website click here.