"Shalom, Shalom" - Enduring Lessons Wrapped in Hospitality, Stories and Faith

Published: April 13, 2021

When Janika Grimlund 17 met Rabbi Michael at Congregation Temple Israel in St. Louis, he struck her as relatable . . . like talking to a friend.

His ability to weave temple history with understanding of its artwork into a tour impressed her. So did his hospitality as he invited questions, welcomed up-close examination of the Torah and hosted Janikas class at a Holocaust remembrance service.

There, Janika reflected in new ways as service leaders read the names of congregants relatives who perished in the Holocaust.

Janika had little to no interest in Jewish history prior to this trip, part of a course at Greenville University entitled Jews, Christians, Muslims. However, the experience lit a fire of curiosity.

Ive gone back to Temple Israel several times, Janika says, to learn more.

G.U.s Shapiro Fellow of Jewish-Christian Studies Aubrey McClain recognizes that when students have such out-of-classroom experiences, the skills and information theyve acquired in the classroom become relevant to them, and the excitement of vocation begins.

McClain speaks from experience when she says, I can teach these things all I want in a classroom, but the experience of meeting Jewish people, hearing their stories, seeing their passionate faith and experiencing their hospitality is what has most impacted the students.

Greenville Universitys Jewish-Christian Studies program packs a wealth of experiential learning into its curriculum, including

• trips to synagogues and the St. Louis Holocaust museum,
• Q & A sessions with rabbis,
• viewing live performances at St. Louis New Jewish Theater,
• Seder meals,
• suppers at a Middle Eastern restaurant, and more.

This year, a generous $50,000 grant from the Shapiro Foundation coupled with gifts from generous donors like you will inspire more students like Janika. Thank you for giving.

Interterm in Israel Redefines "Classroom"
Israel for Interterm: Bringing the Bible to Life
Jewish-Christian Studies Minor Overview
Grant Funds Lectures and Experiential Learning in Jewish Christian Studies

Give the gift of experiential learning today. Fund a scholarship through The Greenville University Fund or designate a gift to "Jewish Christian Studies." Click here to give.

This story originally appeared in the Fall 2018 issue of The RECORD.