Author Archive for Chris Bargeron

Chris Bargeron endeavors to do his part to repair the world, one conversation or relationship at a time -- but tries not to think about it that way because that would be totally overwhelming. He is a non-profit leader, a clinical social worker, and writes about things that are on his mind. These days, Chris spends a lot of time thinking about living Jewishly and living well. He loves to read blog-post comments and hopes that you tell him what you're thinking about. Chris is a member of Shir Tikvah, and has a private psychotherapy practice in the Twin Cities. More information is available at www.bargeron.net.

‘Question One’ Listens Deeply to Both Sides of Marriage Divide

‘Question One’ Listens Deeply to Both Sides of Marriage Divide

The documentary “Question One” tells the story of Maine’s same-sex marriage campaign, points to important lessons for Minnesota, and shows how a Jewish filmmaker uses his life experience to tell the story.

TC Blogger Finds “Pretty Good Reasons” to Oppose Marriage Amendment

TC Blogger Finds “Pretty Good Reasons” to Oppose Marriage Amendment

A blogger turns outrage at the proposed Minnesota marriage amendment into a civil and informative daily read designed to persuade voters why the amendment is bad for Minnesota.

On Matisyahu, Shaving, Facing Truth, and Finding Ourselves

On Matisyahu, Shaving, Facing Truth, and Finding Ourselves

Matisyahu shows the world his face and gives us an opportunity to re-claim our identity.

The Religious Case for Gay & Lesbian Equality

The Religious Case for Gay & Lesbian Equality

Jay Michaelson’s ‘God vs. Gay?’ powerfully argues that Jewish and Christian religious values require affirmation of gay and lesbian people and their relationships.

Waking Up

Waking Up

The month of Elul provides an opportunity – or perhaps a nudge – to wake up and pay attention.

Jerusalem: The Old City from Mount Scopus

Coming Home

Our souls and our hearts can lead us to great joy, if we can listen and follow.

The Winding Way to Marriage Equality

The Winding Way to Marriage Equality

People of faith and of good will who support marriage equality must now work to defeat the Minnesota marriage amendment.

Marriage Inequality: Not a Jewish Value

Marriage Inequality: Not a Jewish Value

Enshrining marriage inequality in the Minnesota Constitution is bad law and is inconsistent with Jewish values.

Jay Michaelson

Jewish Activist, Writer and Teacher Jay Michaelson in Mpls April 22-23

Nationally acclaimed scholar at Shir Tikvah to teach Jewish spirituality, meditation, and the religious basis for GLBT equality.

Stories, Text, Life

Stories, Text, Life

Jewish life and text are intricately intertwined – Chris Bargeron meditates on what that means.

Sabbath Manifesto: Unplug, Connect

Sabbath Manifesto: Unplug, Connect

If being an innovative, creative Jew meant unplugging from the interwebs and turning off your cell phone for 25 hours, could you do it?

The Power of Healing

The Power of Healing

Debbie Friedman has given the world many gifts, but perhaps most precious are the gifts of blessing and healing.

Let’s Kibbitz: Should Circumcision Be Banned?

Let’s Kibbitz: Should Circumcision Be Banned?

A proposed San Francisco law would ban infant circumcision, with no religious exemption. Let’s kibbitz.

Shabbat: A Time for Life

Shabbat: A Time for Life

Whether you consider yourself shomer Shabbat or “nowhere” Shabbat, setting aside a day every week for rest, refreshment and reflection is beneficial. It’s not just good for your spirit; it also supports good, healthy living.

Choosing Shalom

Choosing Shalom

In choosing Judaism, the Jewish people, and Jewish life I have found a wholeness, shalom, I have never before experienced.