In this session, Rabbi Deborah Waxman will unpack the concept of covenantal community and explore the classical Reconstructionist underpinnings to it, including the centrality of community, the commitment to diversity that is at the core of a Reconstructionist approach, and the desire to give weight and meaning to the concept of peoplehood.
Resources
Deborah welcomes Justin Rosen Smolen, Reconstructing Judaism’s Vice President for Thriving Communities and Partnerships, for a wide-ranging conversation about covenantal community. They explore how the idea of covenant, from biblical narratives to contemporary community-building, emphasizes relationships, mutual responsibility and interdependence. They consider how liberal religion can help address societal issues like loneliness and division, and advocate for conversations that build inclusive, thriving communities. Later, Deborah and Justin explore a Reconstructionist understanding of covenant, emphasizing the importance of shared values and intergenerational dialogue, and recognizing that while diverse perspectives may create tension, they also provide opportunities for growth and deeper understanding within the community.
Rabbi Deborah Waxman’s latest Evolve essay explores covenant is an ancient Jewish concept that puts relationships at the center.
In this presentation, Rabbi Deborah Waxman explores a Reconstructionist approach to building covenantal community across difference.
