Judaism boot camp
"Ethos Day provides employees with a fully immersive experience into Jewish traditions and culture."
Jewish Care employs 900 people from a range of backgrounds and cultures, and as part of its orientation program all new employees are required to attend a dedicated Ethos Day to learn about Jewish culture, history and traditions.
Rabbi Ralph Genende, general manger of Jewish life, said, “It’s important for all our staff to have an understanding of the Jewish community and Judaism to enhance the support to our elders, clients and community.”
Employees tour the Jewish Museum to gain insight into Jewish history and traditions, before hearing presentations from Rabbi Genende and Rabbi Yoseph Nerenberg. They learn about Judaism in the modern world, festivals and kosher food.
“Ethos Day provides employees with a fully immersive experience into Jewish traditions and culture. Even those who are Jewish or who have an existing knowledge of Judaism get a lot from the day,” Rabbi Genende said.
The day also includes a synagogue tour. Last week staff visited St Kilda Synagogue where Rabbi Yaakov Glasman talked about the Jewish life cycle and the importance of the synagogue. Rabbi Glasman said he was “absolutely privileged to have hosted the group”, who were “incredibly immersed in this unique learning experience”.
“They demonstrated a genuine interest in Judaism and in the Jewish community and were particularly keen to better understand some of the cultural sensitivities and things that are important to many Jews,” he said.
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