Experience the Jewish Renewal Movement with Music

Sponsored Content from Aleph.

Deep Ecumenism—one of the foundational principles of the Jewish Renewal movement—teaches that no single religious tradition is THE way to reach God. Moreover, we can best serve the needs of all humanity when we not only respect other religious paths, but collaborate with them in our shared work to care for creation.

Perhaps one of the most accessible ways to experience Deep Ecumenism is through the joyful sharing and cross-pollination of musical expressions of devotion. Music is one of the most powerful gateways through which we can connect to our spiritual nature—our divine source—as well as to the universe around us and to our fellow beings, whatever their background or faith.

This belief undergirds the design of the musical showcase programming at this summer’s Kallah, the signature biennial gathering of ALEPH: The Alliance for Jewish Renewal.

Kallah brings together some of the Jewish world’s most inspiring teachers and leaders, and seekers of all ages, in a joyful week-long communal “gathering of the sparks” in the beautiful Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, home of UMass Amherst.

Reflecting ALEPH’s ecumenical and transdenominational identity, the musicians performing at Kallah represent a wide array of styles, from the southern bluegrass stylings of Nefesh Mountain to the Jewish mystical call-and-response chanting of the “Kirtan Rabbi” Andrew Hahn. Also featured are Mikey Pauker, a young crossover musician whose expression draws on folk, reggae and hip hop, Chava Mirel, a soulful jazz artist from the west coast, and a full gospel choir.

What unites each of these artists is the inspiration they draw from their Jewish roots and their ability to infuse their music with authentic spiritual expression. This has the effect of opening up the experience of Judaism in a fresh, new way for the audience, helping to connect them to the deep reservoir of wisdom and compassion that is in their faith. And, for the very first time, the Jewish Rock Radio and PJ Library Radio stage will be at Kallah 2018.

Join us at Kallah and discover how Kallah’s diverse musical entertainment line-up draws a direct parallel to Deep Ecumenism: each offering can be (in the Buddha's words) "a finger pointing at the moon," directing our hearts toward our Source. For more information, visit aleph.org/kallah.