Pathways bridges family divides
"Chazak is a parent support group created to help parents navigate their children's journey away from Orthodox Judaism."
Pathways Melbourne has launched a family support programme for religious Jewish parents whose children are questioning their beliefs or moving away from Orthodox Judaism.
The Mishpachah (Family) programme, developed in partnership with grassroots organisation Chazak, ran as a six-week pilot where parents met weekly for confidential support sessions.
“Chazak is a parent support group created to help parents navigate their children’s journey away from Orthodox Judaism. We aim to support each other to create pathways to strengthen ourselves, our family bonds, and find connection with our children,” explained a Chazak spokesperson.
The Wednesday evening sessions were facilitated by psychologist Kalman Rubin and social worker Bonita Cohen, providing what organisers described as a safe space to share experiences and learn practical communication tools.
“This has been a very important group that assists in developing agency and personal self-growth, enriching communication skills, support from others and allows members to understand how to accept and encourage their children to be who they want to be and enjoy a fulfilling life,” Rubin and Cohen said.
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