The Fissures in Jewish Society: Is Bridging Them a Lost Cause? (98)

The lack of unity among the Jewish people is as obvious as it is troubling. We all know that it's a problem, and has been a problem for as long as there have been Jews. But the normal way of addressing it is by saying that unity is achievable… just as soon as everyone agrees with my way of seeing things. Obviously, this isn't a method that is destined to succeed. Sometimes it seems that the gaps are too big, the disagreements too intense, the self-righteousness of all sides too entrenched. JJ Sussman, the International Director at Gesher, says that all is not lost. He asserts that dialogue can do wonders, and - here's the interesting part - he's seen some of those wonders with his own eyes. Like when a well-known secular Jew explained the Chareidi refusal to serve in the Israeli army to a Los Angeles family, and was emotional when recounting that for the first time, despite his continued opposition to that way of thinking, he was able to articulate and perhaps even understand where the other side is coming from. Join Scott Kahn for his interview with JJ Sussman to learn more. And check out the whole (unedited!) YouTube video at https://youtu.be/4bt60uVqphM. Please listen to and share this podcast, and let us know what you think on the Orthodox Conundrum Discussion Group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/432020081498108). Thanks to all of our Patreon subscribers, who have access to bonus JCH podcasts, merch, and more - we appreciate your help, and hope you really enjoy the extras! Visit the JCH Patreon site at https://www.patreon.com/jewishcoffeehouse. Check out https://jewishcoffeehouse.com/ for the Orthodox Conundrum and other great podcasts, and remember to subscribe to them on your favorite podcast provider. Also visit https://www.jchpodcasts.com/ to learn all about creating your own podcast. Music: "Happy Rock" by bensound.com