On February 6th, members of Hillel gathered in the Chamberlain Student Center to meet with the local Rabbi Rachel Shoenfeld of Congregation Beth Tikvah Bnai Israel (CBTBI) located in Washington Township NJ. The evening was filled with ample discussion on several key interfaith issues. Beginning the night, one of the first major questions from Rabbi Rachel to the group was “How are you?” While this sounds trivial, it has been challenging for the group since the Hamas attacks of October 7th. The group had not met with Rabbi Rachel since Sukkot services at CBTBI, however, Rabbi Rachel was quick to assure the group about the well-being of not only herself but also her welcoming and hospitable congregation.
Other topics ranged from questions about Israel, Blessings before you eat, and even upbringing since Rabbi Rachel is originally from Toronto Canada. Members of Hillel shared stories about their upbringings, some becoming spiritual as they came to Rowan and others who have lived a more faithful way their whole lives until this point. It was a great way for students to connect with their heritage and find relation to one another.