What I Wish My Christian Friends Knew about Judaism - Softcover

Schoen, Robert

Softcover

ISBN 10: 082941777X ISBN 13: 9780829417777

Publisher: Loyola Press, 2004

Synopsis

What is the significance of bar and bat mitzvahs? Is Hanukkah really the "Jewish Christmas"? What can you expect if you are invited to a Passover seder? Is a rabbi simply a Jewish priest? Author Robert Schoen addresses these questions and many more in this inviting introduction to Judaism and Jewish life. This concise and entertaining overview explains the differences and highlights the similarities between Judaism and Christianity. What I Wish My Christian Friends Knew about Judaism covers everything from Jewish ceremonies, holidays, and festivals to religious texts, symbols, and kosher food. It is perfect for the millions of Christians who are curious about the faith of their friends, coworkers, and family members, or for those Jews who want a better understanding of their heritage.

About this title

Book Description:

An easy-to-use guide for the millions of Christians who are curious about the lives of their Jewish friends, family, and coworkers.

While admitting that "describing what it's like to be Jewish is like describing snow," author Robert Schoen provides a smart and practical understanding of Judaism for a Christian audience.  In What I Wish My Christian Friends Knew about Judaism, he presents readers with thoughtful insight into Judaism.  Writing from ther perspective of an "average Jewish American," Schoen points out the differences and highlights the similarities between Judaism and Christianity.

Readable chapters promote understanding and tolerance. Schoen discusses the different sects of Judaism and what they mean and believe; describes Jewish ceremonies, holidays, and festivals; and explains religious texts symbols, religious apparel, and kosher food.  Important historical and social issues including anti-Semitism, the Holocaust, Israel, and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East are also addressed. The book includes a glossary of Hebrew and Yiddish words and a pronunciation guide.

"Schoen's syle is practical, informed, and helpful.   A must read for anyone who wants to understand a Jewish friend."-- Monsignor Tom Hartman, The God Squad

" With wit and wisdom, Schoen takes the beginner through the basics... Highly recommended." --Dr. Eugene Fisher, executive secretary of the Secretariat for Catholic-Jewish Relations, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

 "Schoen contributes to further understanding between American's Jewish and Christian communities." --Rabbi Daniel Lapin, cochair, American Alliance of Jews and Christians; president, Toward Tradition.

About the Author:

Dr. Robert Schoen is a writer and composer with degrees from Boston University, the University of California, Berkeley and California State University Hayward. Semi-retired from the practice of optometry, he is active in efforts to promote Jewish-Christian understanding. He lives with his wife, Sharon Chabon, in Northern California. Learn more about his work at www.RobertSchoen.com.

About this edition

• Publisher: Loyola Press
• Publication date: 2004
• ISBN 10: 082941777X
• ISBN 13: 9780829417777
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 296