18Forty Podcast An Orthodox Rabbi Interviews a Reform Rabbi [Denominations 1/4]
Jan 6, 2026
Diana Fersko, Senior Rabbi of The Village Temple and a noted author, engages in a thoughtful discussion on shaping Jewish identity in America. She explores the education gap between Jewish denominations and the complexities of defining who is a Jew. Topics include the need for Reform Jews to reconnect with tradition, the benefits of bridging divides among different Jewish communities, and practical ways to create inclusive spaces for all. Fersko advocates for deeper Jewish learning while addressing misunderstandings and emphasizing unity across movements.
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The 'Three Blocks' Map Of Jewish Peoplehood
- People view the Jewish world through a warped local map that overemphasizes their own 'three blocks'.
- That distortion makes distant Jewish communities feel like an undifferentiated blob rather than distinct people and practices.
Identity Transcends Observance
- Jewish identity in practice is not determined solely by observance; belonging persists despite different levels of practice.
- That structural idea binds diverse communities and demands we re-evaluate how we map Jewish peoplehood today.
A Corned Beef Meeting That Sparked Cooperation
- David and Diana met via a mutual friend over a corned beef sandwich and began planning cross-movement cooperation.
- That informal meeting launched their broader effort to rebuild trust and shared vision across denominations.
