VIRTUAL COMMUNITIES
The story of the early 21st century is the wholesale relocation of communities from the town square, the pews, and the neighborhood to virtual, online communities. From social media to video games, finding a like-minded community is just a click away. And so, the URJ has jumped into the virtual arena, ensuring that wherever people seek Jewish information or community, a progressive Jewish presence thrives.
Podcasts
Podcasts are one of many ways the URJ is creating new and informative media for people seeking a progressive Jewish framework for daily life.
“On the Other Hand” remains among the most downloaded podcasts in the religion genre on iTunes. Each week, Rabbi Jacobs explores the weekly parashah (Torah portion), offering Jewish thoughts and insights on how it influences our contemporary lives.
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Launched in 2017, the “Stories We Tell” podcast brings to the digital age the deep and rich Jewish tradition of storytelling as a way to transmit our history, traditions, and values from one generation to the next. In 2017, “Stories We Tell” was downloaded more than 40,000 times.
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Introduction to Judaism Online
Launched in May 2017, Introduction to Judaism Online is a one-of-a-kind, engaging, 21-session course for individuals who don’t live in an area served by in-person Introduction to Judaism courses. Using advanced videoconferencing technology, classes meet in real time and include shared media, small-group discussions, and are supplemented with resources, readings, videos, and online forums.
