#42: Accessible Judaism
Tune into Episode 42 of The Bridging Connections Podcast showcasing the Den Collective offering collaborative and accessible Judaism.
“This population (millennials) really has deep spiritual cultural Jewish identities yearnings and questions for a space where they can really connect and grow their Judaism. ”
The Den Collective
Featuring: Rabbi Aderet Drucker, Executive Director & Community Rabbi
Offering cozy, collaborative, accessible Judaism all around DC
the Den is a collective of people creating a Judaism that is relevant, accessible, and deeply rooted in tradition throughout the greater DC area. We seek to build spaces of meaning that invite people to deepen their connection to Judaism, feel part of a community, and enrich their lives. the Den strives to be collaborative, experimental, transparent, and radically welcoming.
the Den’s Values
Personal Connection - They belief that the best experiences develop organically. That’s why we start with a 1-to-1 conversation and build our gatherings from there.
Learning - They belief that Judaism empowers each of us to live lives that are rich and imbued with meaning, and that learning is the gateway to that discovery.
Authenticity - They believe that safe and sacred spaces allow us to truly be ourselves; vulnerable, transparent and real.
Radical Welcoming - They believe that whoever you are, whatever you believe (or don’t!), however you love, pray, eat, vote or sing—you’re family.
Healing Our World - They believe in our shared commitment to repairing our broken world with increased love, kindness, and justice.
the Den’s Vision + Mission
Vision: The Den envisions a more connected and inclusive world where people feel seen, heard, and cared for; where people feel welcome as they are and safe to explore ways to deepen their connection to Judaism, to ask tough questions, and to express their needs. When each of us feels cared for and supported in community, we are better equipped to reach out and work together to address the pressing needs of our neighbors, the greater community, and the world.
Our hope is that through our work people will feel more connected to Judaism, deepen their ownership and understanding of the treasure trove of Jewish wisdom available to them, develop a deepened clarity of meaning and purpose, feel empowered to impact change, and feel a strong sense of belonging in a community that values interpersonal relationships and a commitment to repairing our world.
Mission: The Den builds intentional Jewish community in partnership with people throughout the Greater Washington area. We invite people to belong in community where everyone is welcome and people know each other; to enrich their lives through deep and authentic Torah study, intimate gatherings, and ongoing dialogue with accessible rabbis. Exploration of Jewish wisdom is foundational to our classes and gatherings and serves as the cornerstone for the social change we seek to create. Our unique model combines personal connection with pastoral care, where discovering people’s yearnings and what moves their hearts and souls is the inspiration behind the ways we gather and build inclusive community together. The Den strives to be collaborative, experimental, transparent, and radically welcoming.
“the Den is about connecting with people and building our community together. Let’s start by meeting for coffee, tea, lunch or drinks. We look forward to hearing your story.”
Definitions and Clarifications
EJewish Philanthropy (EJP) - is a news publication covering the world of Jewish philanthropy.
“Im ain Torah, ain kemach, im ain kemach ain Torah” - (Where there is no bread, there is no Torah; where there is no Torah, there is no bread.) -Rabbi Elazar ben Azariah
Organizations Mentioned in the Episode:
