The recent Mizrach class and hands-on glass workshop offered by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Konikoff Center for Learning provided a journey from learning to creating.
The experience began with a class led by Rabbi Ari Oliszewski, who explored the history and purpose of the Mizrach. Participants learned about the tradition of placing a Mizrach on the eastern wall and the deeper spiritual practice of directing one’s heart toward Jerusalem during prayer. The class grounded the new found knowledge in kavannah (intention), giving context to what participants would soon create with their own hands.
In the weeks after the class, participants gathered for hands-on glass workshops led by Sharon Serbin, an artist, educator, and education director at Congregation Beth El. With guidance, encouragement, and a healthy dose of humor, attendees translated what they had learned into stunning works of Judaica.
Esther Diskin, a workshop participant, says, “The Mizrach workshop brought people together for an activity that combined spiritual meaning, creativity, and fun. We had plenty of laughs as we assembled our creations, especially as we tried—sometimes clumsily—to cut glass. It is harder than it looks!”
Participants left with more than just beautiful handmade Mizrach pieces. They developed a deeper understanding of prayer and a stronger connection to Jewish tradition and the pride that comes from creating something meaningful together.
For information about Konikoff Center for Learning classes and workshops, contact Sierra Lautman, senior director of Jewish Innovation, at SLautman@UJFT.org or 757-965-6107.
