Humanistic Jews Join Fight Against Breast Cancer

Team CHJ, made up of members of the Congregation for Humanistic Judaism, joined thousands of others at Sherwood Island State Park on Sunday morning to join the fight against breast cancer. The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk is an annual event for the Congregation. Participation in the walk is consistent with the tenets of Humanistic Judaism, some of which include:

• To increase the well-being of others (Tzedakah)
• To perform acts of loving kindness (Gemilut Chassadim)
• To pursue justice, counter oppression, and make the world a better place (Tikkun Olam)
• To treat adversity, not as divine punishment for wrongdoing, but as a challenge to be overcome with all the personal strength and community support one can muster

The walkathon benefits the American Cancer Society’s efforts to reduce the risk of breast cancer, increase early identification, provide resources and information, ensure access to mammograms and invest in research in the disease.

Humanistic Judaism emphasizes personal responsibility in fulfilling the Jewish ideals of loving kindness, justice, good deeds, and giving to those in need. These ethical ideals are shared by Jewish tradition and humanist philosophy.  Humanistic Jews practice in personally meaningful ways, consistent with a modern understanding of the world. 

Beyond the walk, CHJ’s Social Action Committee partakes in other activities that benefit the community. The Committee makes volunteer and tzedakah opportunities available to members through partnerships with other congregations and local social agencies. A number of Social Action Committee adult education and evening programs are offered during the year, as are interactive presentations to the children’s Sunday School during Shalom sessions.

CHJ is a cooperative congregation run exclusively by members, who plan educational programs, social events and holiday observances throughout the year. Because it is a warm and welcoming community, interfaith couples also find it to be the right place for their families.  CHJ offers a full-service Sunday School program for children through Bar/Bat Mitzvah.

Humanistic Judaism is the most recent group recognized as a major branch of Judaism by the United Jewish Communities.  The Fairfield County CHJ Congregation was founded in 1967.  Humanistic Judaism is now active in many countries throughout the world. For more information about our local Congregation call (203) 226-5451 or visit www.humanisticjews.org.