Judaism Blooms Each Summer… In Jackson, Mississippi

You may not picture central Mississippi as central to Jewish life. But every summer, one of the most dynamic Jewish conferences anywhere takes place in Jackson, Mississippi.

A session at last year's conference
A session at last year’s conference

Every June, Jewish educators from throughout the South, and great presenters from around the country, gather together for three days of learning, networking, celebration and inspiration at the ISJL’s teacher training institute, AKA “the education conference.” While Jackson may not be known by most as a Jewish metropolis, and most folks wouldn’t guess that this Southern town is the location for one of the leading Jewish education conferences in the country, the simple truth is that if you come to Jackson in June, you’ll know it’s true.

That conference begins this Sunday, and as always, I couldn’t be more excited. Volunteer teachers, along with full-time educators, rabbis, and Jewish professionals from Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Texas, and all over the region will sit beside one another, sharing challenges, sharing best practices, and of course, sharing meals. (Hey, you can’t have a Jewish event without food!)

I’m certain this year’s conference will lead to wonderful connections, great stories and plenty of what I like to call “goosebump moments.” For now, our team is working hard to take care of every single last-minute detail so when participants arrive Sunday, everything is in place. We’re watering the seeds and can’t wait for this blossom to once again bloom into beautiful life, nurtured in the warmth of a Mississippi summer.

Like this post? Join the conversation through MyJewishLearning’s weekly blogs newsletter.

Discover More

Two Jewish Educators, One Car, Miles of Southern Adventures

Today’s post is co-written by two Jewish professionals, Amy (Steinberg) Goldberg and Ali Duhan, who share the love of one car and many ...

Spreading Jewish Music, Comedy, and More – All Across the South!

Summer at the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life (ISJL) is a busy and exciting time. During the month of June, the ...

My Mississippi Summer, 50 Years After Freedom Summer

As I began the long trek down to Mississippi a few weeks ago, I found my mind constantly wandering into ...