Ma Hadash Blog from CSH

Quotes from the participants in the Hadar Summer Program in NY:

“From learning more about the structure of the Service to analyzing Jewish texts I’ve been able to learn at my level and stretch a little. I think others have had a similar experience. I am also enjoying the bonding experience with other Shir Hadash participants as we share our experiences with each other.” -Mark Allen

“When I first heard about the New York trip to Hadar Summer Program, I rejected the idea. But with encouragement of Rabbi Nico and several friends in the Seekers group, I decided that this was a wonderful opportunity. I have been on a learning and spiritual journey and this seemed a perfect fit. Hadar exceeded all my expectations. I learned a tremendous amount about my Jewish heritage and I know I will continue my quest for knowledge.” -Denise Beagle

“Coming from a very non-traditional background, I really had no idea if I was getting in over my head. Would I really be comfortable? Would I really be able to relate to the level of observance and not feel like an imposter? Hadar is truly a place of acceptance. A place where the emphasis is on the learning, no matter where you start.” -Jorey Beamesderfer

“I was challenged by the study and yet found it empowering as it deepened my connection and sense of ownership of our texts. I loved sharing this experience with my Shir Hadash learning community and was continually inspired by everyone around me. It has been a powerful, rewarding, spiritual and deeply meaningful week.” -Trista Bernstein

“At Hadar the intensive study of Torah significantly deepened my understanding of Jewish philosophy, prayer, and mitzvot.” -David Bigelman

“It’s been a whirlwind! A whirlwind of learning, friendship, collaboration and growth. From puzzling over texts that slowly reveal themselves to laughing together as we enjoy gelato together. It’s been an intense, joyous, fun-filled experience that I wouldn’t have missed.” -Susan Cohen

“Imagine being welcomed with open arms into a community of learners of all depths and perspectives. Imagine an instructional format that is at once in depth and accessible. I’m very moved to have had this experience as a part of my Jewish spiritual journey.” -Judy Goldman

“Hadar has turbo-charged my personal Jewish growth experience. To learn from the rabbis for three days on topics such as chosenness, prayer and Siddur structure, and what loving Torah means to each of us has helped me to mature in my learning while reminding me that I have only begun to learn.” -Dianna Hart

“Swimming in a sea of Torah is sometimes elevated by a wave of new commentary and connections, and sometimes I sink under the swells of esoteric allusions. I am buoyed by the lively, subtle and penetrating observations of my fellow swimmers. Something very rich about the range of engaged learners in the Hadar spaces from all sorts of backgrounds.” -Sharla Kibel

“I loved the Learner’s Service, and studying both with new friends and our Shir Hadash group.” -Richard Muirhead

A haiku:
“Summer at Hadar
We lean into our Torah
Sweating joyfully”
-Julee Ogawa

“Three days on one passage of Talmud? Yes! The words open up like fans, with shades of thought in each fold. My study partners notice different ones than I do. They point me to questions I did not know I had.” -Rachael Shea