Mini-Update from Biennial

Hello from Toronto!

I'm having so much fun meeting people, running into friends and colleagues, learning and laughing. This gathering is uplifting in so many ways.

It is so amazing to be surrounded by so many enthusiastic, energetic Reform Jews from all over the globe. There is a palpable excitement among the group here - people who feel connected to their faith, friends, and congregations.

Hanging out with my sister tonight - she has some time off, so we will probably try a local restaurant for dinner.

More soon!

Getting ready for WRJ Assembly!

In two days, I will be leaving for Toronto for a big convention: the 2009 Women of Reform Judaism Assembly. The Assembly runs side-by-side with the Union for Reform Judaism's Biennial, and together, the two events bring together thousands of Reform Jews from all over the world.

These conventions take place every other year, and I haven't been able to attend since 2005's Biennial in Houston. Lindsay, my sister, works for WRJ's national office, so she will be SUPER stressed and busy during the event. However, after hearing about how amazing the Assembly programming has been, year after year, I am really looking forward to attending the women's workshops.

Plus - I was asked to LEAD a workshop, which is always wonderfully exciting. I will leading a program on how to use WRJ's The Torah: A Women's Torah Commentary and the corresponding Study Guides that WRJ has put together for a number of the weekly Torah portions. I highly recommend this text as an invaluable addition to your Torah resources.

I'll be sure to update you from the Assembly/Biennial - stay tuned!