In this class, Rabbi Ari Saks will guide us through the Biblical story of Jacob’s grandson’s Ephraim and Menashe, and how their relationship can give insight to how we must bless and celebrate our interfaith grandchildren today. This story is a powerful reminder of the importance of passing down our traditions and values to future generations, even when they come from different faith backgrounds. We will discuss practical ways to support and connect with your interfaith grandchildren, and how to create a meaningful and inclusive family culture that honors all traditions. By building bridges and fostering understanding, we can ensure that our families continue to thrive and grow, just as Jacob blessed his grandsons so many years ago.

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Rabbi Ari Saks is a dedicated and accomplished pulpit rabbi, concluding an 11-year career in this role. As the spiritual leader of the Huntington Jewish Center for the past six years, he revitalized Shabbat morning services through engaging Torah discussions, fostered meaningful relationships across all age groups, and introduced innovative educational programs for children and adults. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Rabbi Saks effectively managed the situation. Prior to this, he spent five years at Congregation Beth Mordecai in Perth Amboy, NJ, where he implemented various programs to invigorate the local Jewish community. Known for his outreach efforts, Rabbi Saks is an alum of 18Doors’ Rukin Rabbinic Fellowship for interfaith inclusion, collaborated with Reform and Reconstructionist synagogues, and held positions of leadership in the Jewish and township communities. With a profound sense of appreciation and responsibility, Rabbi Saks embraces his calling, having found purpose in facilitating important life-cycle events and engaging conversations about Jewish and religious identities. He holds degrees from the Jewish Theological Seminary and Columbia University and resides in Huntington with his wife and two children.

18Doors believes our community is enriched by the diversity of its members. We welcome everyone, and invite racially diverse and LGBTQ individuals to participate in our programming. All of our virtual programs offer automated closed captioning. If you need additional captioning support, or any other accommodations to fully participate in a program, please reach out to mavensupport@aju.edu