Podcasts about Jewish diaspora

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 158  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the recent attacks against Iran by Israel. We look into the history of the connection between Iran and the Jewish people and how this attack against Iran is game-changing for the middle east, Israel and the people of Iran.Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSend us a textSupport the show

Have you heard of the World Zionist Congress before? Until relatively recently, a lot of people hadn't—including two hosts of The CJN's Not in Heaven podcast. Yet, perhaps owing to the impact of Oct. 7 and the wide-reaching effects of the Israeli government's actions on the Jewish Diaspora, Jews around the world have found themselves not only suddenly attentive to the existence of the World Zionist Congress, but actively vying for a voice at the table. (For more on what's at stake, listen to a recent episode of our sister podcast, North Star.) And so get-out-the-vote campaigns are in full swing for Zionists to fight over who gets to control a billion-dollar fund. In the U.S., WZC elections set a new turnout record, nearly doubling participation since the last election in 2020. Meanwhile, Canada is holding its first election for the WZC in decades. This week on Not in Heaven, our rabbinic hosts cast a skeptical eye towards the whole enterprise—while one reveals they are actually a delegate on one of the electoral slates, and explains what that entails. Elsewhere in this episode, co-host Matthew Leibl reports from his home province of Manitoba, where wildfires coninue to ravage the province, and we discuss Swedish activist Greta Thunberg's flotilla stunt, as she was swiftly deported after trying to float into Gaza to deliver aid. Credits Hosts: Avi Finegold, Yedida Eisenstat, Matthew Leibl Production team: Zachary Judah Kauffman (editor), Michael Fraiman (executive producer) Music: Socalled Support The CJN Subscribe to The CJN newsletter Donate to The CJN (+ get a charitable tax receipt) Subscribe to Not in Heaven (Not sure how? Click here)

David Kraemer, Jewish Theological Seminary Librarian and author of the important new book "Embracing Exile, the Case for Jewish Diaspora"

While Israel's government is still engaged externally in a nearly 19-month long war with Hamas in Gaza, crucial elections are underway for Jews around the world–including beginning June 5, for Canada–for control of Israel's four main national Zionist bodies: the Keren Kayemeth/Jewish National Fund, the Jewish Agency for Israel, the Keren HaYesod/United Israel Appeal, and the World Zionist Organization. These historic non-governmental institutions take direction from the World Zionist Congress, based in Jerusalem, and described by founder Theodore Herzl over a century ago as the unofficial “Parliament of the Jewish People”. This election will choose the 500+ official Congress members for a five-year term, which begins this fall. Organizers say there is much at stake. This election is being described as a battle for the soul of Israel, as it pits centrist and progressive Jewish slates against an increasingly powerful coalition of Orthodox and Haredi groups, who are campaigning for Torah values including supporting more settlement building on the West Bank. The Zionist Congress controls not only the policies but who gets appointed to run these major Israeli agencies, and, as a result, where and how their multi-billion dollar budgets are spent. (A tiny fraction of the money comes back to Canada to fund Zionist programming here.) While Israel and the United States are allocated most of the seats, the rest of the Jewish Diaspora including Canada makes up the rest. Canadian Jews are being asked to vote until June 15 through an online ballot. So who is running in Canada's WJC elections this month? And how can you cast your vote? On today's episode of The CJN Daily, host Ellin Bessner speaks with vote organizer Stan Greenspan, the president of the Canadian Zionist Federation, and himself a candidate. Plus you'll meet candidates Jacob Kates Rose with the progressive Hatikvah Canada slate, and also Dr. Yizhar Hess, a high-ranking Jerusalem-based diplomat who came to Canada recently to drum up support for his slate known as Mercaz-Canada, which represents Conservative-Masorti Jewish values. Related links How Canadian Jews can vote in the WZO's elections from June 5-15, 2025.  What is the World Zionist Congress anyway? Read Ron Csillag's 2020 feature in The CJN. Why the American Jewish community was split over voting in the WZO elections, in The CJN. Credits Host and writer: Ellin Bessner (@ebessner) Production team: Zachary Kauffman (senior producer), Andrea Varsany (producer), Michael Fraiman (executive producer) Music: Dov Beck-Levine Support our show Subscribe to The CJN newsletter Donate to The CJN (+ get a charitable tax receipt) Subscribe to The CJN Daily (Not sure how? Click here)

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 157  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the recent changes to aid distribution in Gaza that has seen Gazan people receive aid and how much trouble that is causing Hamas and the western media. We also look into why Hamas rejected the ceasefire and their "backward" demands that prove they have lost total control. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSend us a textSupport the show

While we await next week's new episode, we invite you to revisit our (third) 18Forty Podcast conversation with Malka Simkovich, originally aired on November 19, 2024. 18Forty is celebrating its fifth year LIVE in NYC on June 9. Reserve your seats today!In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we talk to Malka Simkovich—a scholar of Jewish history, the editor-in-chief of the Jewish Publication Society, and a three-time 18Forty guest—about previous Jewish diasporas.We tend to think of “Israel-diaspora relations” as a modern phenomenon. But, as Dr. Simkovich reminds us, that situation existed well over 2,000 years ago, when some Jews returned to the Land of Israel following the Babylonian exile while others remained abroad. In this episode we discuss:What are the differences between the notions of golah, diaspora, and galut?Did ancient diaspora Jews have a political equivalent to “supporting Israel”?How should Jews live when in a partial state of exile?Tune in to hear a conversation about the “proto-messianic mindset” throughout Jewish history and today.Interview begins at 8:58.Dr. Malka Simkovich is the director and editor-in-chief of the Jewish Publication Society and previously served as the Crown-Ryan Chair of Jewish Studies and Director of the Catholic-Jewish Studies program at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. She earned a doctoral degree in Second Temple and Rabbinic Judaism from Brandeis University and a Master's degree in Hebrew Bible from Harvard University. She is the author of The Making of Jewish Universalism: From Exile to Alexandria (2016), Discovering Second Temple Literature: The Scriptures and Stories That Shaped Early Judaism (2018), and Letters From Home: The Creation of Diaspora in Jewish Antiquity, (2024). This is her third time speaking on 18Forty.

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 156  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the claim made by people in the social media comment section that "everyone is turning on Israel" and the recent announcements by Canada, UK and France to escalate their opposition to the war by recognizing a "Palestinian" state. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSend us a textSupport the show

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/jewish-studies

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/intellectual-history

Lihi Yona and Itamar Mann join us to discuss their recent UCLA Law Review piece, "Defending Jews From the Definition of Antisemitism." A special 10th anniversary installment of "This Week in Rotten History" from Renaldo Migaldi follows the interview. Check out Lihi and Itamar's piece here: https://www.uclalawreview.org/defending-jews-from-the-definition-of-antisemitism/ Help keep This Is Hell! completely listener supported and access bonus episodes by subscribing to our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thisishell

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 155  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the recent IDF operation "Gideon's Chariots", that aims to be a complete game-changer in the war on Hamas. We look at what this means for Hamas and their desperate need to stop it at all costs, including a ceasefire that they claimed they would never accept. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSend us a textSupport the show

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/middle-eastern-studies

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/israel-studies

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Embracing Exile: The Case for Jewish Diaspora (Oxford University Press, 2025) analyzes biblical and rabbinic texts, philosophical treatises, studies of Kabbalah, Hasidism, and a multiplicity of modern expressions for a comprehensive history of Jewish responses to and justifications of their diasporas. It shows that Diaspora Jews through the ages insisted that God joined them in their exiles, that "Zion" was found in Babylon and Eastern Europe, and that, as citizens of the world, Jews could only live throughout the world. The result is a convincing assertion that lament has not been the most common Jewish response to diaspora and that Zionism is not the natural outcome of either Jewish ideology or history. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian at the Jewish Theological Seminary, where he has also served as Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics for many years. As Librarian, he is at the helm of the most extensive collection of Judaica-rare and contemporary-in the Western hemisphere. He is the author of several books on Rabbinic Judaism and its texts, the social and religious history of Jews in antiquity, and Jewish rituals and their development. Caleb Zakarin is editor at the New Books Network.

Jennifer Daiches, daughter of the Scottish critic and biographer David Daiches, was born in Chicago, educated in the US and in England, before moving to Scotland in 1971.From 1978 to 2001 she worked at the National Museums of Scotland in various capacities, including Head of Publications and script co-ordinator for exhibitions. She is a freelance writer and lecturer, writing on literary and historical subjects as Jenni Calder (having been married to the poet Angus Calder until 1982) and fiction and poetry as Jenni Daiches. An area of special interest has been Scottish emigration, particularly to North America, and questions of identity. Other key interests include Scottish literature and women writers.Jenni is also a biographer, writing book on Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, George Orwell and Naomi Mitchison. See her full bibliography here. Somewhere Else has been longlisted for this year's Women's Prize for Fiction. Miriam Margolyes is among its fans, saying “I wept and laughed and wished I had written it.” Get the book here or at your local bookshop. Rosa Roshkin is five years old when her family are murdered in a pogrom and she is forced to leave behind everything she knows with only a suitcase of clothes and her father's violin.An epic generational novel about womanhood and Judaeo-Scottish experience across two World Wars, the creation of Israel and the fall of the Berlin Wall. Jenni Daiches's  Somewhere Else explores today's most difficult and urgent questions, not least of which: how to find identity in displacement.

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 154  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan looks into the commonly used talking point that the "Zionists are the new N@zis" and the history that shows the Arab World are, in fact, descendants of the N@zi ideology. We also look into how the modern "Anti-Zionist" movement proudly professes their support and alignment with N@zi ideology. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSend us a textSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 153On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the recent events in and around Israel and how Israel should stop falling into the trap of trying to convince a world that hates them and holds them to double standards, not to hate them and hold them to double standards anymore.  We look into how situations on the ground could change if Israel cared less about world pressure and acceptance and focused on their own best interests, like all other countries. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSend us a textSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 152On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the commonly used "talking point" that "Israel wouldn't exist if it wasn't for USA".  We look into the history of the USA / Israel relationship to see if this is true and how the relationship between the two has helped and hurt the state of Israel. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSend us a textSupport the show

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Meaningful People, we sit down with Adriana, the woman behind the viral “Non-Jewish Nanny” persona, to hear her remarkable story of transformation. What began as a nanny job for Orthodox Jewish families in Boca Raton led to a deep, personal journey that ultimately brought her to an Orthodox Jewish conversion. Adriana shares what it was like growing up Christian in Florida, how she was first introduced to Jewish customs through the families she worked for, and how the innocent questions and pure love of the children she cared for opened her eyes to the beauty of Judaism. As she fell more in love with the Jewish way of life, her social media presence unexpectedly exploded, offering a glimpse into her unique perspective as someone discovering Jewish life from the outside in. But this story goes deeper than curiosity. Adriana opens up about surviving an abusive relationship, finding refuge in the warmth of the Jewish community, and learning to find purpose and healing through faith. She candidly explains why she kept her conversion private, and how every step of her journey—whether joyous or painful—ultimately led her to a life of meaning and connection with Hashem. Adriana's story is inspiring, emotional, and a beautiful reminder of how one person's journey can ignite faith and pride in others. If you've ever wondered what it's like to discover Judaism through fresh eyes, this is the episode for you.   This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ►Blooms Kosher   Bring you the best Kosher products worldwide.   https://bloomskosher.com   ____________________________________________________   ► PZ Deals - Download the app and never pay full price again!     https://app.pz.deals/install/mpp _____________________________________________________   ►Toveedo     Visit- https://toveedoshop.com   Use Promo Code MM10 for $10 off! __________________________________________________ ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka    https://pushka.cc/meaningful    __________________________________________________ ► Lalechet     We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish.    https://www.lalechet.com/website   __________________________________________________     ►Atidaynu If you or someone you know is looking for a school that sees beyond the diagnosis and focuses on the possibilities, visit our website. Because at Atidaynu, the future isn't just a dream—it's a promise. https://www.atidaynuourfuture.com __________________________________________________     ► Eretz Hakodesh - Vote to Keep Israel Holy!   Over the years, liberal movements have gained significant influence as the primary representatives of the Jewish Diaspora. From this position, they have pushed agendas that impact crucial issues related to religion and state in Israel.   Eretz HaKodesh seeks to balance this influence by accurately reflecting the power dynamics of Jewish communities in the Diaspora and amplifying the voices of Orthodox communities dedicated to preserving the timeless values of the Torah and authentic Jewish tradition.     Click here to vote in the upcoming World Zionist Organization elections: https://bit.ly/41D1Ag0     __________________________________________________     ► Town Appliance - Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp     https://www.townappliance.com     https://bit.ly/Townappliance_whatsapp    ____________________________________________________   ► Rothenberg Law Firm - Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years! Reach out today for a free case evaluation       https://shorturl.at/TsoU6  ____________________________________________________     Order the brand new Meaningful People Game!   https://meaningfulminute.org/thegame    ____________________________________________________     ► Subscribe to our Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.     https://apple.co/2WALuE2    https://spoti.fi/39bNGnO Or wherever Podcasts are available!   Editor: Sruly Saftlas

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 151On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the United Nations definition of "Indigenous peoples" and the UN resolution that provides certain rights to "Indigenous People". We look at these definitions comparing the Jewish claim to the land of Israel and the Arab claim to the land of "Palestine".Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSend us a textSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 150On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the Jewish holiday of Passover and its significance in Jewish history and today.  We see how if we forget about Passover and its story, how the Jewish people will break the chain of eye witness testimony from the events of the Exodus.Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSend us a textSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 149  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the many false talking points on the Anti-Israel side that suggests early Zionists and the modern "Zionist" movement were "colonizers" who aimed to steal land and forcibly remove the Arabs from the land.  We look into the words of the early leaders and how they have been misquoted and manipulated to change history in order to fit the 1960's fake Nakbah narrative of Arabs being expelled from the land.Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSend us a textSupport the show

In this episode, we speak with Michal Lobanov, the wife of Alexander (Alex) Lobanov HY'D, who was abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023, while working as the head bartender at the Nova Music Festival near Kibbutz Re'im.  Alex was a devoted father from Ashkelon, caring for his physically disabled parents and supporting his wife Michal, who was five months pregnant at the time of his abduction. Tragically, after enduring months of captivity, Alex was murdered by Hamas, and his body was recovered from a tunnel in Rafah on August 31, 2024. In this heartfelt conversation, Michal shares her journey of grief, resilience, and the challenges of raising their two children, including the child born during Alex's captivity. She reflects on the profound impact of the October 7 attacks, the enduring pain of losing Alex, and her determination to honor his memory. This episode sheds light on the human cost of terrorism and the strength required to navigate unimaginable loss. Join us as we listen to Michal's story—a testament to love, courage, and remembrance. You can support the Loubanov family by making a donation here: https://thechesedfund.com/hopeinaction/help-family-of-murdered-hostage-alex-lobanov You can follow Michal's journey on https://www.instagram.com/michalobanov  and follow the page in memory of her late husband Alex Lobanov https://www.instagram.com/remember.alex.lobanov i Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support these important conversations.     This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ►Blooms Kosher   Bring you the best Kosher products worldwide.   https://bloomskosher.com   ____________________________________________________   ► PZ Deals - Download the app and never pay full price again! https://app.pz.deals/install/mpp  __________________________________________________ ►Kupath Rabbi Meir Baal Hanes: Support Families In Need Currently numerous families in Israel are being presented with unprecedented financial pressure and hardships Amidst these difficulties, Kupath Rabbi Meir Baal Haness Kolel Polin remains a steadfast source of direct care and support for those in need. Together, let's help these families land on their feet and restore a glimmer of hope to their lives. https://kupathrabbimeir.org/donate.aspx?utm_source=meaningfulminute&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=04.03.25 __________________________________________________   ► Lalechet     We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish.    https://www.lalechet.com/website   __________________________________________________ ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka    https://pushka.cc/meaningful    __________________________________________________ ► Eretz Hakodesh - Vote to Keep Israel Holy!   Over the years, liberal movements have gained significant influence as the primary representatives of the Jewish Diaspora. From this position, they have pushed agendas that impact crucial issues related to religion and state in Israel.   Eretz HaKodesh seeks to balance this influence by accurately reflecting the power dynamics of Jewish communities in the Diaspora and amplifying the voices of Orthodox communities dedicated to preserving the timeless values of the Torah and authentic Jewish tradition. Click here to vote in the upcoming World Zionist Organization elections: https://bit.ly/41D1Ag0     __________________________________________________ ► Town Appliance - Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp     https://www.townappliance.com     https://bit.ly/Townappliance_whatsapp    ____________________________________________________ Order the brand new Meaningful People Game!   https://meaningfulminute.org/thegame    ____________________________________________________ ► Subscribe to our Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.     https://apple.co/2WALuE2    https://spoti.fi/39bNGnO  

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 148  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the recent anti-Hamas protests in Gaza, what they mean and what it means for the current situation in the Middle East. We look at how these protests affect Hamas needing and wanting a ceasefire deal and how Israel can help the people of Gaza. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSend us a textSupport the show

In this powerful interview, we sit down with Rabbi Yehoshua Soudakoff, a trailblazing deaf rabbi, to discuss his journey, the challenges he has faced, and the impact he is making in the Jewish Deaf community worldwide. He shares his experiences growing up deaf in a hearing world, his path to becoming a rabbi, and the work he is doing to make Torah and Judaism more accessible. There are an estimated 15,000 to 20,000 Deaf and hard-of-hearing Jews in Israel and around 40,000 to 50,000 worldwide, with communities in the U.S., Europe, and Russia. Many face limited access to Jewish education, Torah learning, and religious services due to a lack of sign language resources. Organizations such as the Jewish Deaf Foundation and The Israel Deaf Community Center are working to bridge this gap and create more inclusive opportunities. This conversation is both inspiring and eye-opening, offering a glimpse into the resilience, faith, and dedication of Rabbi Soudakoff and the broader Jewish Deaf community. Watch now to hear his story and gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and triumphs within this often-overlooked part of the Jewish world. For more information, you can visit his website: https://chushim.org/ ____________________________________________________ To win $200 comment on YouTube under this episode, who you think that we will be recording a new episode of Meaningful People next week! And the first person who comments and gets it right, will also receive a Meaningful People Game!  ____________________________________________________ This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ►Blooms Kosher   Bring you the best Kosher products worldwide.   https://bloomskosher.com   ____________________________________________________   ► PZ Deals - Download the app and never pay full price again! https://app.pz.deals/install/mpp  __________________________________________________ ► Lalechet     We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish.    https://www.lalechet.com/website   __________________________________________________ ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka    https://pushka.cc/meaningful    __________________________________________________   ► The Jewish Providence Rhode Island Recruitment Committee is offering new families a FREE $50K housing contribution and FREE first year PHDS (Providence Hebrew Day School) tuition for all kids (+subsidized following years) moving into the city. You can learn more about the campaign on their website at www.providencetorah.com and the in town Jewish School, Providence Hebrew Day School, on IG at https://www.instagram.com/phds_rhodeisland/    ____________________________________________________ ► Eretz Hakodesh - Vote to Keep Israel Holy!   Over the years, liberal movements have gained significant influence as the primary representatives of the Jewish Diaspora. From this position, they have pushed agendas that impact crucial issues related to religion and state in Israel.   Eretz HaKodesh seeks to balance this influence by accurately reflecting the power dynamics of Jewish communities in the Diaspora and amplifying the voices of Orthodox communities dedicated to preserving the timeless values of the Torah and authentic Jewish tradition. Click here to vote in the upcoming World Zionist Organization elections: https://bit.ly/41D1Ag0    __________________________________________________ ► Lema'an Achai - Donate to Families this Pesach! Financial hardship is like being stuck in quicksand. Freedom feels very far away when your fridge is empty, and every night is spent worrying about overdue bills. Lema'an Achai aren't just giving handouts to struggling families. They are lifting them up and accompanying them to freedom, through financial training. This Pesach set a family free. Make a donation today  https://www.lemaanachai.org ____________________________________________________ ► EDEN BET SHEMESH  A new community in Israel lead by Rabbi Beni and Chani Krohn   CONTACT US TODAY!  whatsapp - https://Wa.me/972526244600 Email - realty@kellystern.com Phone number - +972526244600   ____________________________________________________   ► KosherWine.com - #1 Spot for Pesach Wines   Make sure you're stocked for Sedarim! No schlepping. No last-minute runs. ✅ Nationwide shipping ✅ Expert picks ✅ One-click Pesach mixed cases Free shipping with 15 bottles + Make your Pesach smoother with https://www.kosherwine.com and order today! Use code MM15 for $15 off your order of $300+   ____________________________________________________ Order the brand new Meaningful People Game!       https://meaningfulminute.org/thegame    ____________________________________________________ ► Subscribe to our Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.     https://apple.co/2WALuE2    https://spoti.fi/39bNGnO  

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 147  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the recent ending of the Israel / Hamas ceasefire deal. We look into the past week events that have led to the ending of the ceasefire and why Hamas broke the deal in order to go back to war. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Lipa Schmeltzer is more than just a singer—he's a storyteller, a trailblazer, and a man who has walked a deeply personal journey of growth and healing. In this powerful episode of the Meaningful People Podcast, Lipa opens up like never before about his childhood, struggles with anxiety, the role of therapy in his life, and his evolving perspective on faith, music, and personal transformation. From the highs of his music career to the challenges he faced within the community, Lipa shares raw and honest reflections on finding balance, overcoming pain, and embracing his true self. He discusses the stigma surrounding mental health, the lessons he's learned, and why he believes in slowing down and appreciating life's moments. This is Lipa like you've never heard him before.   This episode was made possible thanks 0,to our sponsors: ► PZ Deals - Download the app and never pay full price again! https://app.pz.deals/install/mpp  ____________________________________________________ ► The Jewish Providence Rhode Island Recruitment Committee is offering new families a FREE $50K housing contribution and FREE first year PHDS (Providence Hebrew Day School) tuition for all kids (+subsidized following years) moving into the city. You can learn more about the campaign on their website at www.providencetorah.com and the in town Jewish School, Providence Hebrew Day School, on IG at https://www.instagram.com/phds_rhodeisland/    ____________________________________________________ ► Eretz Hakodesh - Vote to Keep Israel Holy!   Over the years, liberal movements have gained significant influence as the primary representatives of the Jewish Diaspora. From this position, they have pushed agendas that impact crucial issues related to religion and state in Israel.   Eretz HaKodesh seeks to balance this influence by accurately reflecting the power dynamics of Jewish communities in the Diaspora and amplifying the voices of Orthodox communities dedicated to preserving the timeless values of the Torah and authentic Jewish tradition. Click here to vote in the upcoming World Zionist Organization elections: https://bit.ly/41D1Ag0    __________________________________________________ ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka       https://pushka.cc/meaningful    __________________________________________________ ► Lalechet     We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish.    https://www.lalechet.com/website __________________________________________________ ► KosherWine.com - #1 Spot for Pesach Wines   Make sure you're stocked for Sedarim! No schlepping. No last-minute runs. ✅ Nationwide shipping ✅ Expert picks ✅ One-click Pesach mixed cases Free shipping with 15 bottles + Make your Pesach smoother with www.KosherWine.com and order today! Use code MM15 for $15 off your order of $300+   __________________________________________________   ►Atica     At Atica, our collections celebrate a concept we call quiet luxury—timeless style, crafted with care, and built to last. Mention Meaningful to get 3 shirts for $100! https://aticaman.com/    __________________________________________________       ► Town Appliance - Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp       https://www.townappliance.com       https://bit.ly/Townappliance_whatsapp    ____________________________________________________       ► Rothenberg Law Firm - Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years! Reach out today for a free case evaluation       https://shorturl.at/TsoU6    ____________________________________________________ Order the brand new Meaningful People Game!       https://meaningfulminute.org/thegame        ____________________________________________________ ► Subscribe to our Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.       https://apple.co/2WALuE2    https://spoti.fi/39bNGnO  

A new groundbreaking report released by the Institute for Jewish Policy Research (JPR), Israelis abroad: The transformation of the Jewish Diaspora?, finds that 630,000 ex-pat Israelis live across the world, with the majority of them choosing English-speaking and European countries as their new home?. The report, authored by the Director of the JPR European Jewish Demography Unit, Dr Daniel Staetsky, notes that an estimated 325,000 children have been born to these Israelis when living abroad, bringing the total number of Israeli migrants and their children to close to a million. KAN's Mark Weiss spoke with Dr Daniel Staetsky about the report. (Photo:Courtesy)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 146  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the recent case of Mahmoud Khalil, the former Columbia University student being deported by the US government, and what this case symbolizes for a larger issue in the United States. We also look into the plans and actions of the Muslim Brotherhood within education and many other aspects of Western world and the United States, in order to "bring down the west from the inside". Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

From Evangelical Missionary to Orthodox Jew: This is Shannon Nuszen's Unbelievable Journey! In this powerful interview, Shannon Nuszen shares her extraordinary transformation from being an evangelical missionary—trained to convert Jews—to embracing Orthodox Judaism. Raised in a fundamentalist Christian family, Shannon later joined the Christian messianic movement, working with missionary groups targeting Jews, but eventually converted to Judaism and now regrets her past involvement. What led her to question her beliefs? How did her deep dive into Jewish texts change everything? What challenges did she face in leaving Christianity and converting to Judaism? With over 15 years in the counter-missionary field, she educates Jewish communities about missionary tactics. She founded Beyneynu, an organization that monitors missionary activity and raises awareness among Jewish leaders. Now, through her organization Beyneynu, she works to protect Jewish communities from deceptive missionary tactics. This is an important mission, as the there are more and more Jews converting to Christianity. In 2015, there were 15,000 Jews belonging to Messianic congregations here in Israel – as of 2020, there were more than 30,000 reported. Beyneynu has watched this community grow from 120 Messianic congregations and outreach programs to over 300, and there are currently over 200 websites dedicated to converting Jewish people to Christianity, mostly through media in English, Hebrew, Russian, and Arabic. https://beyneynu.com This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ► PZ Deals - Download the app and never pay full price again! https://app.pz.deals/install/mpp ____________________________________________________ ► Eretz Hakodesh - Vote to Keep Israel Holy! Over the years, liberal movements have gained significant influence as the primary representatives of the Jewish Diaspora. From this position, they have pushed agendas that impact crucial issues related to religion and state in Israel. Eretz HaKodesh seeks to balance this influence by accurately reflecting the power dynamics of Jewish communities in the Diaspora and amplifying the voices of Orthodox communities dedicated to preserving the timeless values of the Torah and authentic Jewish tradition. Click here to vote in the upcoming World Zionist Organization elections: https://bit.ly/41D1Ag0 __________________________________________________ ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka https://pushka.cc/meaningful __________________________________________________ ►Atica At Atica, our collections celebrate a concept we call quiet luxury—timeless style, crafted with care, and built to last. Mention Meaningful to get 3 shirts for $100! https://aticaman.com/ __________________________________________________ ► ILS Ordering title should not be a surprise  https://ilstitle.com/ ____________________________________________________ ► Town Appliance Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp https://www.townappliance.com  https://bit.ly/Townappliance_whatsapp ____________________________________________________ ► Rothenberg Law Firm - Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years! Reach out today for a free case evaluation https://shorturl.at/TsoU6 ____________________________________________________ Order the brand new Meaningful People Game! https://meaningfulminute.org/thegame  ____________________________________________________ ► Subscribe to our Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. https://apple.co/2WALuE2 https://spoti.fi/39bNGnO

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 145  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the current status of the "ceasefire" deal in Gaza and what the future holds for the region as a stalemate has happened between Israel and Hamas as well as the USA/Israel and the Arab world.Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

How did Israel education in the Jewish Diaspora fail as abysmally as it did? Can it still be corrected? In a special double episode, Yehuda HaKohen is joined by Joe Schwartz to discuss the state of Israel education for Diaspora Jews and his work in the field through the Makom organization. In the course of their rich conversation, the two also reminisce about life in late 20th Century New York City and discuss Jewish identity, the pros and cons of liberal ideology, how to relate to Diaspora-based Jewish religious denominations, and the tribal socio-political tensions currently dividing Israeli society.

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 144  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the start of Ramadan in Israel and how every year brings friction and danger while anti-Israel forces attempt to harm Israel physically and on the world stage. We look into the history of the Temple Mount and the controversy over the space during Ramadan and how this is playing itself out this year.Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 143  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the the recent hostage releases that included elaborate propaganda setups and the media that is coming out from Gaza around the hostage releases. We look into why these are happening and how the western media is to blame for it all.Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 142  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the recent updates on the Ceasefire deal and how Hamas has pushed the envelope trying to derail the process. We look into how they and the Arab world has F'd around and now they have found out. As Phase 2 of the ceasefire is being negotiated, we are looking into possibilities and challenges for "the day after" Hamas.Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 141  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the recent proposal by US President Donald Trump for the population and reconstruction of Gaza. We look into if this is an "Ethnic Cleansing" and who may be behind the current attempts at stopping allowing Gazans to leave to safety and a better life. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 140  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the Bad Ass women of Israel from history and today. We look into the treatment of those female hostages released from Gaza this past week. We look into the ways that they defied their captors and how divine intervention may have played a role. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 139  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the updates on this past week in the Ceasefire Deal and how Hamas has been pushing the envelope with not following the deal that they had agreed to. We look into all of the ways that Mike was right last week and seemingly predicted all of Hamas' actions, one week ago.  We look into how history is our guide to understanding what we are seeing on the ground in Gaza and what plans American President Trump has for the future of the region. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 138   On this bonus episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the recent ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel, how Hamas pushes the envelope in order to break the ceasefire early, and how the world has reacted to it. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 137 (Bonus Episode)  On this bonus episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the recent ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel, what it includes and what it means for the future of the conflict. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 137  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the modern talking point of "Settler Violence" by Jewish people in "the West Bank" or Judea and Samaria. We look into the inaccuracy of the term based on history and agreements signed by all sides and how this is being used in the media to change the narrative into an anti-Israel one.  Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 136  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the recent interview from the New York Times with United States Secretary of State Anthony Blinken about the last four years in office dealing with the Israel / Hamas war. We hear clips from his interview where he seems to try to play both sides and also provide unintentional details about the behind-the-scenes happenings of the US government's approach to the conflict. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 135  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the issue of why the media is banned from Gaza during the war and where all of the information from Gaza comes from. We look into how Hamas controls the messages coming out of Gaza to a purposefully anti-Israel International media. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Jewish Diaspora Report - Episode 134  On this episode of the Jewish Diaspora Report, Host Mike Jordan discusses the holiday of Hannukah as presented by the "Jewish Voices for Peace" organization, a group of Jews who do not support the state of Israel. We look into how they change and manipulate one of the most pro-zionist Jewish holidays to fit their narratives and to put a fake Palestinian narrative into an ancient Jewish holiday. Explore these challenging issues and join the Jewish Diaspora Report for future episodes on issues of Politics, Culture, Current Events and more!   Check us out on Instagram @jdr.podcastSupport the show

Bishop Joseph Bambera marks the launch of a groundbreaking Catholic-Jewish initiative - Translate Hate: The Catholic Edition - with a wide-ranging interview with AJC's People of the Pod. At a time when recent events have challenged Catholic-Jewish relations, Bambera, the Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee (USCCB) on Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs, details why the church has made combating antisemitism a priority.  Translate Hate: The Catholic Edition, a joint project of AJC and the USCCB, features Catholic commentary on various entries of AJC's renowned Translate Hate glossary of antisemitic terms, themes, and memes. It comes as Catholic and Jewish communities prepare to mark six decades of trust-building and mutual learning beginning when the Catholic Church reached out to the Jewish people and the world with Nostra Aetate, the historic Second Vatican Council document disseminated on October 28, 1965, which dramatically and publicly decried antisemitism and transformed the Church's approach to the Jewish people for the better.Resources: New Glossary Breaks Ground in Tackling Antisemitism Through a Catholic Lens Listen – AJC Podcasts: The Forgotten Exodus: with Hen Mazzig, Einat Admony, and more. People of the Pod:  Bernard-Henri Lévy and AJC CEO Ted Deutch on How to Build a Resilient Jewish Future Post-October 7 What's Next for the Abraham Accords Under President Trump? The ICC Issues Arrest Warrants: What You Need to Know Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at AJC.org/PeopleofthePod You can reach us at: peopleofthepod@ajc.org If you've appreciated this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. __ Transcript of Conversation with Bishop Bambera: Manya Brachear Pashman:   Nearly 60 years ago, the Roman Catholic Church issued a declaration called Nostra Aetate, a groundbreaking document that, among other things, aimed to heal the Church's strained relationship with the Jewish community at large. But over the past year, since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, there have been some tense moments: a call from Pope Francis to investigate whether Israel is committing genocide, a photograph of the Pope before a Nativity scene–featuring a keffiyeh. Now AJC and the US Conference of Catholic Bishops have unveiled Translate Hate: the Catholic edition, the glossary of antisemitic terms, tropes and memes, originally published in 2019, also features Catholic commentaries to explain why the church has made combating antisemitism a priority. Here to talk about this partnership is Bishop Joseph Bambera, Chairman of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on Ecumenical and interreligious affairs. Bishop, welcome. Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera:   Thank you for the honor of being with you today. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Bishop Bambera, please walk us through the Catholic edition of Translate Hate and how the Catholic Church became involved in this initiative together with the Jewish community. Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera:   I think the best way to walk us through the Translate Hate Catholic edition is to first take us back to 1965 and the Second Vatican Council and the declaration on the church's relationship with non-Christian religions, and particularly with the Jewish community. There was this really milestone declaration Nostra Aetate that I think many of us would be familiar with, and that really speaks about our relationship as it stands today. A relationship that I would say. tragically prior to the Second Vatican Council was not what it should have been. And on the heels of the Council, for almost 60 years, an anniversary that we'll celebrate next year, we have grown together in mutual respect and understanding.  That particular declaration Nostra aetate speaks very, very clearly about the fact that Catholics and Jews really share a common patrimony. We Catholics, our roots are in Judaism. Jesus was Jewish. His family was. And so many members of the early church were as well. And we recognize and affirm in that document the fact that the Jewish people were the first to hear the Word of God and are a part of a covenant relationship that certainly has not been in any way broken, but has been maintained. And something that we affirm and that we teach in that document. A very important thing, from my perspective. And as well, the document reminds all those who would be familiar with it, and certainly who should be, if they are not, of the importance of us coming to a deeper sense of mutual respect and understanding. Of decrying any sense of hatred, persecution, or antisemitic efforts on the part of individuals that really have been such a burden to the Jewish people. So that particular document really laid the groundwork, for the very simple fact that I am here today and a part of this initiative.  But to fast forward a bit, the reality of antisemitism, as you know better than I, it has hardly diminished, and sadly, has intensified in recent years. And well before October 7 of 2023. So much so that the bishops of the United States, many of them, brought to the attention of the committee that I chair, the Bishops Committee for Humanism and Interreligious Affairs, have brought to our attention the fact that we need to begin to do something in a more concrete way. To walk more intimately and closely and lovingly with our Jewish brothers and sisters and to address the reality of antisemitism in a very real and concrete manner.  And so in 2022 this committee that I just referenced, they issued a document that they shared with all of the bishops. It's called the Fruits of Dialogues: Catholics Confronting Antisemitism. And in many respects, I would say that that particular document was the impetus for this initiative that we are a part of today, the Translate Hate Catholic Edition, hopefully it's been the impetus for other efforts on the part of many bishops in their own particular dioceses and archdiocese to work with their Jewish partners, to help to eradicate this, or certainly to address it in a way that is hope filled.  So this document has been in the works now for quite a while particularly with the leadership of the Bishop's Committee and the American Jewish Committee as well. What you will find is building upon the antisemitic themes and tropes that were placed in the document when the American Jewish Committee put it together; we have provided commentary on a number of them from a Catholic perspective. So you know, if you look at the notion of deicide, the commentary that we provide there offers very clear Catholic theological teaching on the fact that that whole reality is certainly not something that we would ever intend to insinuate today is the responsibility of all of the Jewish people. In the midst of these commentaries, we offer current theological teaching. We offer teaching on human dignity, which is so much a part of our tradition and our hope and prayer for humankind, and we acknowledge, as well, in some of those commentaries, the fact that, you know, some members of the Church throughout history have been insensitive and inappropriately offered, and perhaps even negligently offered, words and actions that led to antisemitic efforts, sadly on the part of so many. Manya Brachear Pashman:   So what is the expectation? This document is going out. How are you expecting or wanting parishes and pastors to implement it? Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera:   Given the fact that it the document that the Bishops Committee came out with in 2022 was really at the initiative of many bishops in the United States, I would like to believe and think that the vast majority of our bishops will embrace this and use it in whatever way speaks to the situation within their own territory, their own region, relative to the Jewish community there. So for example, once this is officially promulgated today, later on in the day, we will be releasing from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops on our bishops-only website.  We will be releasing a letter from me as the chair of this committee, and the document, and that will be followed up with a hard copy that will be sent to every bishop in the near future, following the online version that they'll receive today. We anticipate that this will be used by other committees that might have some relationship to the work that our committee does, and the hope that they would use them. We will be disseminating it to ecumenical officers who are appointed in every one of our dioceses to do the work of ecumenism and interreligious affairs folks.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   You mentioned Nostra Atate. In 1965 you were just a child then. And I should also mention AJC played a leading role in those conversations, as well with Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel. You were ordained 20 years later. And I'm just curious if this major turning point in Catholic Jewish relations, did it come up in your theology training, or 20 years later, was it just accepted as the norm? Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera:   You know, I will be frank with you, the term that you used in asking the question was, did it come up? Yes, it did. It did. But given the scope of issues that would be necessary to prepare a man for ministry in the church as a priest in the seminary, it was one of many things that everything rose to the level of being absolutely vital, all right, to our preparation. So this was but it took its place in a whole line of other things that were just as vital.  So maybe the best way to answer your question was, you know, a great deal of the teaching of the Second Vatican Council was integrated into many of the theology courses that I would have taken, all right, and the same would go for something like Nostra Atate. All right. We were, I was certainly familiar with it. All right. It was certainly something that was communicated as a very significant teaching, a milestone moment in our church, a clear refocusing of our relationship with the Jewish community. Prior to that, there were no relationships officially. So it was put before us as something that was vital to consider. But I would not be honest in wanting to suggest that in some way it was a major focus. It was one of many. Manya Brachear Pashman:   I do want to fast forward and talk about today. Of course, Catholic Jewish relations are quite complicated now, especially given the Israel Hamas war, I imagine educating inspiring your flock on the moral complexities of that war, while also rallying the faithful to combat the rise of antisemitism against Israel and the Jewish Diaspora at large is very complicated, and there have been some tense moments. Recently, a letter from Pope Francis, one year after the October 7 terror attacks, included a couple kind of eerily iconic phrases from John 8:44, a verse that's long been understood as a fundamental, eternal indictment of the entire Jewish people. He was even cited by the Pittsburgh synagogue shooter. A lot of Jews are irate that the Pope has called for an investigation into whether Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. And most recently, some people were upset that the nativity scene at the Vatican featured a baby Jesus resting in a manger draped with a keffiyeh, Palestinian national symbol, and I know that has since been removed from that scene. But how do you talk about all of these moments with your Jewish friends, friends like the Hollanders, when they arise? Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera:   First of all, the concern that you share in that question, maybe the hurt or the confusion that some of these things have caused. It's rather palpable. I spoke about it just coming into the studio today with Rabbi Marans. I would first say that the very fact that in this exchange that we are having here today, on a day that is a real positive step. I believe in Catholic Jewish relations with the promulgation of the Translate Hate Catholic Edition, I would say it's a testimony to the relationship that we have developed. And I want to thank you for that. I want to thank you for the question, you know, they're, not easy questions to address, but they are of great concern to you and so many others. And you, on behalf of your people, have a responsibility to ask me that question, and I need to say to you that my presence here today is meant to speak a word of encouragement regarding our relationship. It is one that is deeply valued. I treasure it. I'm grateful for it. I am honored to be here today.  Now with that, let me, let me speak a little bit more directly to the question and how these types of things are addressed. I look at the work that I have done in ecumenism and interreligious affairs, and I've been privileged to be chairman of this committee for a term now, for three years. I was previously back in 2017 elected chairman of this very same committee. So I've been at the helm of it twice now, and I've learned so much, so much from Christian partners, so much from our Jewish partners. One of the things that I have learned in the midst of the work that I have done with ecumenism is that I can't create a false sense of unity and harmony. For us to journey together in a positive way, I need to hear what you have to say, and I need to receive it, and I can't say something that is contrary to where my church is.  Now, another dimension of the dialogue work that I have learned relates to listening. How do we listen to what we hear about this relationship? What are we hearing when we read something about Pope Francis? How is that speaking to our hearts? What is it saying to this relationship? I hear from you hurt. I hear from you confusion. I said that a moment ago. For me, and perhaps this is the best thing that I can say, and I would say it across all three areas or topics that you raised in your question, I would say this much. I can't speak for Pope Francis. But what I can do is reflect to you what I hear from him and what I have heard from him throughout his 11 years as Pope. I have heard from him very, very early on, and you're all familiar with this quote that he offered to a Jewish interreligious organization way back, I think, in 2013 or 14, shortly after he was elected Pope, that a true Christian cannot be an antisemite. That's something that I would affirm, and that's something that I have never heard him go back on.  I have heard him embrace better than probably I have heard prior to his election, a deep commitment to the documents of Vatican Council, Vatican Two, and particularly, a deep commitment to the tenets of Nostra Aetate. The other thing that I've heard from Pope Francis, and perhaps this speaks to some of the struggle that you raise that in the face of terrorism and war and the loss of innocent lives, of Jewish lives that were lost in 2023 and of countless other lives that are lost throughout our world in the midst of war. I hear him speak over and over again about human dignity, the value of life and the reason for why we treasure life, and that's rooted in a common scripture that we both cherish, in the first book of the Torah, Genesis, the first chapter. In the image of God man was created, in the image and likeness of God. I think that that speaks for me to this moment.  It does not take away, and I would not imagine that for a moment some of the struggle that you experience, but that's what I hear when I look at his papacy. I also look at some more personal dimensions of it. And I know that his experience as the archbishop of Buenos Aires was an experience that found him deeply connected to the Jewish community, particularly to a close friend of his, whom I've been privileged to meet, Rabbi Abraham Skorka. So I share these things with you in response to your observation. And by the same token, I would say to you that we have miles to go before we achieve the end for which we are about here today. Manya Brachear Pashman:   In this moment, Bishop, do you believe that Translate Hate, specifically this new Catholic edition has particular value in this, in this moment that we talked about, where the relationship can get complicated? Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera:   I think, in any moment in time when there is suffering because of hatred, because of an antisemitic perspective that so many people so horrifically bring to life, I think this particular initiative is vital, and I think today more than ever, we have recognized it in our church, the sufferings of our Jewish brothers and sisters. We have recognized it globally. We have recognized it in our country, and we experience it in in my community, Scranton, relatively, you know, small city of about 100,000 people, you know, we it's sadly, it's sadly everywhere. I believe this moment is a bit of a clarion call for all of us to walk a little bit more authentically and closely with our Jewish brothers and sisters. It's one thing to have issued a document 60 years ago. You can forget the intensity and the significance that document was and meant 60 years ago, 50 years ago, maybe even 40 years ago. But as time goes on and generations pass, we sometimes need to refocus our attention, don't we? And we need to recognize the fact that as our society, becomes more secularized, we can't possibly circle the wagons to just preserve what we have. Every one of our congregations, many of yours and many of mine, are diminishing in terms of numbers since the pandemic, but also before that as well. And I think sadly, what you see in many congregations is this sense of trying to preserve what one has and therefore excluding others. Not just, I certainly don't necessarily mean from being in a church or a synagogue or temple, but I mean excluding from life by one's attitudes and one's actions and one's words. And I think we are, at this moment, really at risk of losing a sense of what we learn and how we grow from dialogue.  I'm here to tell you today that I am so much richer personally because of this opportunity that I have been given to be a part of this initiative, frankly, to even prepare for today. It's just been a wonderful experience for me that has really re-energized me. This wonderful mission. But it's also reminded me of how much people who are involved in in faith traditions, in a leadership position, can be somewhat academically connected to something. It's it's got to be translated to the heart, and I hope that that's what happens here. Manya Brachear Pashman:   I mentioned that you were just a child when Nostra Aetate came about. Can you tell us a little bit about your upbringing and when you heard the calling to seek ordination and become a priest? Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera:   I grew up in a Catholic family. I didn't have a lot of Jewish friends. There weren't a lot of Jewish people living in our community, although I did develop friends as as I went off to college. Okay, when I when I got the call to be a become a priest. I was actually at the University of Pittsburgh with every intention of becoming a dentist. It was kind of the family business, okay? And and I got involved in an ecumenical Christian campus ministry program. But, you know, it was just an experience that really called me to develop a deeper sense of authenticity, I think, in my faith journey, and, and, and so that's what ultimately prompted me to go into the seminary and become a priest. Did you grow up in Pittsburgh? I grew up in Scranton, where I serve as bishop, which is very unusual. So I my mom, who, at 97 still lives nearby. We I've spent my entire ministry in the Diocese of Scranton, and 15 years ago was appointed Bishop. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Wow, wow. That that is indeed rare, and that is indeed rare. So you get to see the parish in which you you grew up. Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera:   I do. I do, yeah. And I've journeyed with this community, there's, there's pluses and minuses to something like that. You know, sometimes people say, What's the best thing about being bishop in your home diocese? I say, you know people, and they know you and and what's the most challenging thing? You know people and they know you. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Well, Bishop, thank you so much for sharing what the church's teaching now and how it's collaborating with AJC to build bridges and educate your flock. Thank you so much, and thank you for joining us. Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera:   It's been a real pleasure.

At the ISGAP-Oxford Summer Institute, Ansel K. Brown (North Carolina Central University) examines the deep-rooted hatred driving the global rise in antisemitism, as well as how and why Jews and African-Americans need to resume their cooperation that peaked in the 1960s with the Civil Rights Movement.

This episode is sponsored by Eden Beit Shemesh. Contact Rina Weinberg at info@edenbeitshemesh.com for more details. Noam Taragin, son of our previous guest Rabbi Moshe Taragin, was seriously injured in Lebanon. We ask to pray for his quick healing: Noam Avraham ben Atara Shlomit.In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we talk to Malka Simkovich—a scholar of Jewish history, the editor-in-chief of the Jewish Publication Society, and a three-time 18Forty guest—about previous Jewish diasporas. We tend to think of “Israel-diaspora relations” as a modern phenomenon. But, as Dr. Simkovich reminds us, that situation existed well over 2,000 years ago, when some Jews returned to the Land of Israel following the Babylonian exile while others remained abroad. In this episode we discuss:What are the differences between the notions of golah, diaspora, and galut?Did ancient diaspora Jews have a political equivalent to “supporting Israel”? How should Jews live when in a partial state of exile?Tune in to hear a conversation about the “proto-messianic mindset” throughout Jewish history and today. Interview begins at 8:58.Dr. Malka Simkovich is the director and editor-in-chief of the Jewish Publication Society and previously served as the Crown-Ryan Chair of Jewish Studies and Director of the Catholic-Jewish Studies program at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. She earned a doctoral degree in Second Temple and Rabbinic Judaism from Brandeis University and a Master's degree in Hebrew Bible from Harvard University. She is the author of The Making of Jewish Universalism: From Exile to Alexandria (2016), Discovering Second Temple Literature: The Scriptures and Stories That Shaped Early Judaism (2018), and Letters From Home: The Creation of Diaspora in Jewish Antiquity, (2024). This is her third time speaking on 18Forty.References:18Forty Podcast: “Malka Simkovich: The Mystery of the Jewish People”18Forty Podcast: “Malka Simkovich: The Secrets of Second Temple Judaism”Letters from Home: The Creation of Diaspora in Jewish Antiquity by Malka Z. SimkovichThe Antiquities of the Jews by JosephusThe Elephantine Papyri in English: Three Millennia of Cross-Cultural Continuity and Change by Bezalel PortenRosh Hashanah 18bBen SiraZechariah 8:19Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/18forty-podcast--4344730/support.

Order a hot pastrami on rye at any delicatessen and you'll taste the briny terroir of the Jewish Diaspora. Pastrami is an iconic cured meat that migrated with Eastern European Jews to America and became synonymous with the deli, a beloved third place for Jewish communities across the country. In Jackson, Mississippi, that place was the Olde Tyme Deli, which Judy and Irv Feldman owned and operated from 1961 until 2000. In this episode, we'll trace the migration of pastrami to the Deep South, where Southern Jewish identity coalesced during another moment of reckoning—the civil rights movement. Sarah Holtz reported and produced this episode. Sarah is an independent audio producer who documents cultural history in New Orleans, New York, and the Bay Area. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices