HaBaitah For The Holidays
Christmas is not a big holiday for most Jews. But for converts to Judaism, Christmas often means a trip home for a porkless reunion with the mishpacha.
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.
Jay Michaelson to Speak on The Religious Case for Same-Sex Marriage
Jewish writer, scholar, and LGBT activist Jay Michaelson comes to the Twin Cities to teach about how Jewish and Christian religious texts and values actually support same-sex marriage, and how amendment opponents can bring a religious perspective to conversations about the proposed Minnesota state constitutional amendment.
God Bless the Whole World – No Exceptions
How is it that people made in the image of God can enact evil? This is a question without an answer. But our tradition insists upon the pure and holy essence of every human being. No exceptions.
‘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
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
Matisyahu shows the world his face and gives us an opportunity to re-claim our identity.
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.
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
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
Enshrining marriage inequality in the Minnesota Constitution is bad law and is inconsistent with Jewish values.
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
Jewish life and text are intricately intertwined – Chris Bargeron meditates on what that means.
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
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?
A proposed San Francisco law would ban infant circumcision, with no religious exemption. Let’s kibbitz.
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
In choosing Judaism, the Jewish people, and Jewish life I have found a wholeness, shalom, I have never before experienced.
How to Make Amends to Another Person
One of the skills of a well-lived life is to be able to recognize and right the wrongs we have created through our actions. The Days of Awe present us an opportunity.
The Chooser and the Chosen
Our choices are a gift that we possess and that we give. It is a waste of our existence to be unaware of the choices that we make and the potential they have to help or hurt our world.
In Hiding: Orthodox Lesbians Stay Silent
Lesbian and bisexual women in Orthodox communities often have to choose between remaining a part of their tradition and being true to themselves.
