Each session of this series explores the intersection of Judaism and queer identity. Putting these two identities in conversation creates tremendous potential for finding meaning and a deeper understanding of each identity. Everyone, regardless of whether or not they hold a queer and/or trans identity, is welcome.

So many American Jews know that powerful moment that often precedes the Mi Shebeirach prayer: when the sanctuary falls silent as the prayer leader goes around the room, inviting in the names of community members in need of healing. Not as many people know that the Mi Shebeirach that usually follows, the version by Debbie Friedman, was written in direct response to the AIDS crisis facing the LGBTQ+ community in the 1980s. This interactive workshop will dive deep into the origins of Friedman’s Mi Shebeirach, rooted in queer strength and resilience. We will ask this prayer what it has to teach us about healing– both individual and communal– in today’s painful world.