Pentateuch Class Visit Local Synagogue

Recently, the postulants in Sister Gabriella’s Pentateuch class visited Sherith Israel Orthodox Synagogue on West End Avenue for an hour-long tour led by Rabbi Saul Strosberg.

The students made several observations regarding their time at the synagogue. Their comments surrounded a few themes: the Jewish people’s reverence for the Torah, the significance of sacred music, and the importance of continued dialogue between followers of different faiths.

“Visiting a synagogue had been a wish of mine for a long time,” said one student. “The openness and happiness with which we were received was very beautiful, and I greatly enjoyed listening to what Rabbi Saul told us.”

Another commented on the respect with which the Jewish scriptures are treated. “I was struck by the reverence of Orthodox Jews in general, and Rabbi Saul in particular, for the Torah,” she said. “They not only honor it through its beautiful case and reverencing it physically by bowing, but they also consider reading it a great honor.”

During their visit, the students were introduced to different songs and instruments that are integral to Jewish custom. Rabbi Saul chanted part of the Shema, a central prayer of Judaism affirming God’s unity and sovereignty. “I was so grateful that Rabbi Saul chanted a portion of the Shema for us from the Torah,” said one student. “Hearing the manner in which the sacred Word of God continues to be read, yet in different languages, is beautiful!”

“My highlight was playing the shofar! It has such a majestic and beautiful sound!” said another.

The students also expressed gratitude and joy at the opportunity to meet those of other faiths, and that a posture of respect and reverence was maintained for the other’s practices and beliefs. One student said, “The very fact that a group of religious sisters visited a rabbi at a synagogue, both radically living out their faith, and had a peaceful and beautiful discussion is amazing!”

This visit has been a popular and memorable staple of Sister Gabriella’s theology course on the Pentateuch, with students coming away with a renewed respect and appreciation for the depth and continuity of their neighbors’ Jewish heritage and the bonds of our related faiths.