FAQ & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I join the Glacier Jewish Community?
GJC is not a membership organization. Unlike a traditional synagogue where membership dues and donations fuel programming and compensate spiritual leaders, GJC relies on voluntary contributions from those who appreciate what we do and who want our community to thrive. Our programming and events, and the pastoral support of our rabbi, are available to all who seek it. Of course, open doors must have secure doorposts, and we are grateful to those who contribute financially to our ability to sustain and grow the quality and consistency of our offerings. Donations come in all sizes and are essential to our sustainability and service.
How can I support the Glacier Jewish Community?
In the header of this website, in the upper right corner, you will see a blue DONATE button that is linked to Zeffy, a free fundraising site designed for non-profit organizations like ours. We will receive your donation directly through Zeffy with no additional fees to you and no service charge for us — a win-win. If you prefer to write a check, please make it out to “Glacier Jewish Community/B'nai Shalom,” and send it to us at P.O. Box 615, Kalispell, MT 59903.
What are your standards around eating together?
When we eat together — which we love to do! — we generally select vegetarian and vegan foods that are accessible to all. Reducing our consumption of meat not only makes it easier to create an environment that is comfortable for those who keep kosher, it also has important environmental and ethical implications. Our rabbi teaches about eco-kashrut, a way of interpreting the ancient laws of kashrut that jives with our 21st century environmental ethics and the choices we make about the sourcing of our food locally from those who use sustainable agricultural practices, and who treat farmworkers with the dignity every human being deserves. In addition, the ethical treatment of animals grown for consumption is a shared communal value.
Where does GJC Meet?
We meet in a variety of locations around the Flathead Valley. Because we want all of those who attend our programs and events to feel welcome and to feel safe, we do not publish locations on our website. Although we don't lead with fear, we know that antisemitism exists, and some of us know the impact of it far too well. Those who consult with Jewish communities in our region of the country advise us to follow this approach. This is why we ask that you email our Program Director to receive all necessary information about our activities.
How can I get involved with GJC?
There are many ways for you to participate in our community. We encourage you to reach out to our program director to begin receiving our weekly newsletter or register to attend local offerings. You can also participate remotely in our online offerings. Participation is the best way to figure out what speaks to you and where your interests and talents will create meaningful relationships with others who are part of the Glacier Jewish Community.
With what Jewish movement(s) does GJC affiliate?
Glacier Jewish Community has always been a multi-denominational community of Jews who come from a variety of Jewish backgrounds and Jews and Jewish allies with many different Jewish communal experiences. Our founding rabbis were ordained through Reform and Conservative Jewish seminaries, our current rabbi received s’micha through Jewish Renewal’s pan-denominational ordination program and created and served a Reconstructionist Jewish community for many years. Because of our size, diversity, and structure, GJC is not affiliated with any particular denomination. However, you will recognize liturgy, music, and values found in all streams of monotheistic Judaism that honor the participation of all, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or lineage.
Resources
The links below serve as a resource hub, aiding individuals in fostering and enhancing Jewish community life within the vast landscapes of Montana.
Complicated Conversations
Jewish Learning
Jewish Time & Holidays
Jewish Communities
Sense of Place
Supplies and Provisions
Lifecycle Events
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Births
Jewish tradition and innovation offer many ways to welcoming new life with purposeful ritual. Our rabbi works with families to design meaningful family and communal celebrations.
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B'nai Mitzvah
Jewish tradition teaches that become a b-mitzvah means becoming capable of fulfilling mitzvot (sacred responsibilities) on behalf of community. Our rabbi guides this process with students.
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Weddings
Where better to celebrate the love and commitment of marriage than in the natural sanctuaries of NW Montana. Our rabbi and other Montana rabbis contract with couples privately for weddings.
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Other Rituals
Certain transformational experiences in our lives may call for elevation or release. Our rabbi can assist you in marking these transitional moments with meaningful Jewish ritual.
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Funerals
Judaism's deep well of compassionate wisdom supports and comforts the dying and guides the mourners. Our rabbi offers pastoral support as we navigate this tender time.