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Interfaithing: Why families can embrace two faiths under one roof

Interfaithing: Why families can embrace two faiths under one roof

By: Ari Saks & Anna DeWeese
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 Interfaithing is a podcast for and about Jewish & Christian interfaith families, where we explore the question: why families can embrace two faiths under one roof. Whether you are part of an interfaith family or you're exploring and interested in how different faiths interact with one another, this is the space for you! Each episode of this first season explores and unpacks stories related to common myths about and expressed toward Interfaith families. So join us on this journey to help spread the Torah and gospel of interfaith wisdom far and wide.2023 Spirituality
Episodes
  • (S02/E17) Ella's Interfaithing Journey PART 2 - Becoming Whole in the Holy Land

    (S02/E17) Ella's Interfaithing Journey PART 2 - Becoming Whole in the Holy Land
    Sep 5 2025
    Join Ari and Anna as they wrap up Season 2 of Interfaithing with the second part of Ella Goldberg's captivating journey of self-discovery and faith exploration in "Becoming Whole in the Holy Land"! Topics addressed include: Ella's transformative Birthright trip to Israel, where she felt her identity come together in harmony;The emotional rollercoaster of converting to Judaism in Israel;Navigating the complexities of interfaith identity and family dynamics;The power of interfaith families in promoting dialogue between faiths; And MUCH MORE!! ~ Hear Ella's powerful words: "When I was in Israel... that was the first time that I just felt everything come together beautifully and in harmony." ~ Consider Ari's passionate declaration: "Interfaith families are not just key to it, but I think that they are central figures in making a beautiful faith life happen for the world." ~ Plus, don't miss Anna's inspiring message: "Don't be afraid to know yourself and then to share yourself. Like don't hide yourself." This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about interfaith relationships, Jewish identity, or the power of personal spiritual journeys. Tune in and prepare to be inspired! --- For more insights, become a Patreon supporter at www.patreon.com/interfaithing!! Like us and Follow us on Facebook and Instagram with the handle @interfaithingpod!! Check out our website at www.interfaithingpod.com for more Interfaithing content!! Check out the Trailer of Season 2 for a description of the season's theme: Interfaith Dialogue is What We Call Dinner!! --- Glossary of Hebrew words listed chronologically from today's episode: Mefaked (מפקד) - A commander of a unit in the Israeli military.Keshet (קשת) - Literally, "rainbow." Also used metaphorically to refer to the diversity of ethnicities, races, and religious backgrounds of Israelis.Rabbanut (רבנות) - Chief rabbinate of Israel responsible for official policy of the Israeli government related to Jewish identity, weddings, conversions, and burial.Halakhic (adj) or Halakhah (n) (הלכה) - Often translated as "according to Jewish law," this term refers to a system of how Jewish identity, practice, and beliefs are deemed legitimate according to accepted rabbinic authorities.Giyur (גיור) - The process of converting to Judaism.Hashlamah (השלמה) - Literally, "fulfillment." This term is used to describe the process of finishing a term of study, especially primary school. Shul - A Yiddish term meaning "synagogue."Mefakdot (מפקדות) - The plural form of "mefaked" (see #1).Meah She-arim (מאה שערים) - Literally, "100 gates." This term refers to a particulalry ultra-orthodox neighborhood in Jerusalem and is often used as a shorthand to describe an ultra-orthodox lifestyle and approach to Jewish practice & belief.Sechel (שכל) - Literally, "mind" or "logic." This term is used by Ella to describe how the person convincing her to make aliyah appealed to her sense of logic.Mikveh (מקווה) - A bathouse or natural body of water used to immerse individuals or objects for Jewish ritual purposes, including conversion & purification.Misgeret (מסגרת) - Literally, "framework."Beit Din (בית דין) - A Jewish tribunal - often consisting of 3 rabbis - who preside over important Jewish ritual & legal matters, including conversion.Kippah Srugah (כיפה סרוגה) - Literally, "a Jewish head covering (i.e. Yarmulke) that is knitted." This term is used to refer to a subset of Jewish Israelis who typically wear a knitted kippah and identify as religious, modern, and Zionist.Teek (תיק) - A general term that can refer to a "bag, binder, or file." Ella uses it in reference to the material collected by the Beit Din regarding her candidacy for conversion.Shema (שמע) - A well known prayer declaring the God of Israel as the One God. It is the closest statement in Judaism to a formal creed and is thus recited as a statement of loyalty to the Jewish people during the ritual of conversion. Neshamah (נשמה) - A person's soul.Neshamot (נשמות) - The plural form of "neshamot" (see #17).Safek (ספק) - Literally, "doubt." The term was used by Ella to explain how the rabbi who presided over her conversion had "no doubt" that her soul was at Mt. Sinai with all other Jewish souls.
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • (S02/E16) Ella's Interfaithing Journey Part 1: Navigating the Interfaith Maze

    (S02/E16) Ella's Interfaithing Journey Part 1: Navigating the Interfaith Maze
    Aug 28 2025

    In this gripping episode, Ari and Anna unpack the complex story of Ella Goldberg, an interfaith child who ultimately chose Judaism. Born to a Catholic mother and Jewish father, Ella's early life was a tapestry of mixed traditions and dual celebrations.

    Listeners will be captivated by Ella's vivid recollections of Hanukkah menorah lightings alongside Christmas tree decorations, and how these experiences shaped her understanding of faith and identity. The episode explores the unique perspective Ella gained from straddling two religious worlds and the rich cultural heritage she inherited.

    But Ella's journey takes a dramatic turn in college when she faces blatant antisemitism, forcing her to confront her Jewish identity head-on. This pivotal moment becomes a catalyst for deep self-reflection and ultimately, a conscious choice to fully embrace her Jewish roots.

    Through Ella's story, the podcast tackles broader themes of religious identity, discrimination, and the power of personal choice in spiritual matters. It raises thought-provoking questions about how external pressures and life experiences influence our religious affiliations.

    Featuring raw, honest dialogue and powerful quotes from Ella herself, this episode promises to be an eye-opening exploration of the interfaith experience and the journey to finding one's true spiritual home.

    ---

    For more insights, become a Patreon supporter at www.patreon.com/interfaithing!!

    Like us and Follow us on Facebook and Instagram with the handle @interfaithingpod!!

    Check out our website at www.interfaithingpod.com for more Interfaithing content!!

    Check out the Trailer of Season 2 for a description of the season's theme: Interfaith Dialogue is What We Call Dinner!!

    Click here to access previous episodes from Season 1 referenced by Ari & Anna:

    • Myth #3: You'll Confuse the Kids!!!
    • Myth #6: You Just Don't Care About Your Faith Tradition!!!
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    51 mins
  • EMERGENCY POD! Interfaithing Responds to Ari Resigning from the Conservative Movement

    EMERGENCY POD! Interfaithing Responds to Ari Resigning from the Conservative Movement
    Aug 12 2025

    Get ready for an emergency episode of "Interfaithing" that's shaking up the religious world! Rabbi Ari Saks drops a bombshell about his resignation from the Conservative Jewish movement, all because of his stance on interfaith marriages. But that's just the beginning!

    Dive into a fascinating exploration of Jewish law, interfaith relationships, and the evolving nature of religious traditions. Here's what you'll discover:

    • The shocking reason behind Rabbi Saks' resignation and the controversy it's stirred up;

    • A mind-bending "career-long research project" that challenges traditional views on interfaith marriages;

    • The surprising historical connection between intermarriage and idolatry in Judaism;

    • How embracing multiple faith traditions can strengthen families and prevent division

    • A game-changing announcement from co-host Anna DeWeese that could revolutionize interfaith ceremonies

    This episode is packed with scholarly insights, personal stories, and actionable advice for anyone navigating the complex world of interfaith relationships. Don't miss out on this groundbreaking discussion that's sure to spark conversation and challenge long-held beliefs!

    And MUCH MORE!!

    Join Ari and Anna as they push the boundaries of religious tradition and pave the way for a more inclusive future!

    ---

    Read JTA's article on Ari's resignation from the Conservative Movement by clicking on this link

    For more Interfaithing insights, become a Patreon supporter at www.patreon.com/interfaithing!!

    Email us with any questions, insights, or comments at interfaithingpod@gmail.com

    Like us and Follow us on Facebook and Instagram with the handle @interfaithingpod!!

    Check out our website at www.interfaithingpod.com for more Interfaithing content!!

    Check out the Trailer of Season 2 for a description of the season's theme: Interfaith Dialogue is What We Call Dinner!!
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    1 hr and 8 mins
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