Making Connections Across Vermont

The purpose of JCVT is to support a vibrant Jewish community in Vermont.

I often jokingly ask what this means for our work tomorrow: Do we go hand out Hanukkah candles? Sing a prayer on Mt. Mansfield? Have a Matzo giveaway?

Given trends of Jewish life nationwide (fewer regular synagogue attenders and increasing levels of people shaping their own array of Jewish experiences) and the limited number of Jewish Vermonters (which is actually much bigger than many think), it seems the best role for JCVT is to help make connections for individuals to each other and to elements of their Jewish identity.

A wonderful aspect of Jewish life in Vermont is how welcoming we are to the diversity of Jewish experience. We are stronger when we celebrate our differences and commonalities by coming together through multiple venues. In the year ahead, JCVT is hoping to bring people together through events such as Shabbat Across Vermont (inviting others into your home for Friday night dinner), Shmita Statewide (congregation and individual engagement with reflection, renewal and recommitment to a social action), a statewide remote Jewish Life course featuring teachers from across the state, music events, a speakers series, Ski/Ride Purim (more on that upcoming!) and small group "challenging conversations" related to Israel.

At the same time, JCVT hopes to connect you to Jewish life beyond Vermont--addressing antisemitism, linking to groups involved with Israel and working for peace in the Middle East, and connecting with various entities in the US, including our government officials, to support the Jewish community here and around the world.

We hope you stay connected with JCVT and join us in making connections within Vermont and beyond.