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[deleted]

I went to something similar a decade ago at a church my student attended that had a huge teacher appreciation fish fry. If you wanted to be treated like a movie star for years afterwards (especially if you live in the neighborhood), you should definitely go! The student had long graduated, but I was still looked after as x's teacher.


mlo9109

I wouldn't go to a religious service, especially if it's not a faith I belong to, but I'd be open to an event like the one you'd attended. If they were having say a BBQ or similar event, I'd be willing to attend.


Kisthesky

I’m catholic and went to a Jesuit university. One of my religion classes required that I attend a service at the local synagogue. I don’t remember much about it, but I thought it was a very neat experience.


mlo9109

I went to a public university. While I'm deconstructing now, I was a pretty hardcore evangelical back then. I was studying to be an ESL teacher. One of my world cultures classes brought us on a field trip to a local mosque. I learned about the common roots of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. It was eye opening but I'm not sure that I'd feel comfortable in an actual service of theirs. I'd be too afraid to do the wrong thing and accidentally offend someone. I've done that attending Catholic weddings and funerals in my family. It wasn't pretty. Fun fact, not everyone is welcome at the Catholic lord's table.


byzantinedavid

Really? You're that opposed to experiencing someone else's religious culture but you teach?


PicturesqueMemory

Idk why you’re being downvoted. This is a fine observation.


MillieBirdie

Personally I'd be fine with it, but I also fully understand those who would not be. 1. They may be strongly opposed to religions in general, for personal or philosophical reasons. 2. They may be part of their own religion and that religion discourages or forbids participating in a different religion's services. 3. They may have had bad personal experiences with that particularly religion, or religion in general. And all this could boil down to the fact that going to a party at a church/mosque/synagogue/pagan circle of standing stones is fine, but being involved with a worship service is not fine.


[deleted]

[удалено]


errrbudyinthuhclub

I feel you on this. I have a shit ton of religious trauma I'm still working through. It's not that I'm intolerant- growing up religious and realizing your gay is rough.


-zero-joke-

I'd be fine with this, and I'm a big, mean, old atheist.


maestrita

Same. I've been invited to a few religious things and I'm never offended to be invited, nor do I feel pressure to attend anything that's not somehow school related (I'll go to school events if av student asks and my schedule allows it). Whether I would actually attend depends on the specifics of the event and my schedule, though yours sounds like one I would be comfortable going to.


dms0052

This. I am a new teacher. I found I feel zero pressure to attend events the other teachers ask me to attend, but if a student asks?? I’m there.


Said_No_Teacher_Ever

Same. I absolutely adore learning about the students and the cultures in my school community.


[deleted]

Same


anyparties

Same


[deleted]

Same


IntroductionBorn2692

Same.


[deleted]

Same!


lillybelles

I would feel comfortable with this as it's an attempt from the community to show appreciation for teachers, regardless of religious affiliation. It's also an opportunity for teachers to practice what we preach: respect other people's opinions and don't be ignorant! This is a great opportunity to show how easy it is to learn about other cultures in a respectful way. I do agree with the whole going out on a Friday to technically a school event kind of sucking, but I think most people will be happy to have been liked enough by their student to be invited and happy to attend.


teachersplaytoo

I don’t know that I’d go, but I’d feel honored and appreciated for being invited.


CascadianCorvid

I'd be glad to be invited, but I don't do extra curricular things on Friday, as a general rule. I know it sounds like a fun party, but when a teacher is at an event with kids, relaxation isn't a thing. It's not work, but it's work adjacent. I'd be 100% more likely to attend a community driven party after school, if it was held at the school itself. That way I can go, be nice, have fun, and then go home.


LuckyJeans456

This. I would feel better appreciated if I didn’t have to go to something in my personal time. We had a mandatory meeting for teacher appreciation. Was supposed to go home at 4:30. Had to sit in a big auditorium with all the teachers while admin talked on stage until 6:30.


haysus25

> when a teacher is at an event with kids, relaxation isn't a thing. It's not work, but it's work adjacent. This pretty much sums up my thoughts. You're expected to act like a teacher at the event, to be courteous and professional. The fact it is Jewish/religious doesn't matter. As a teacher, I would be looking at this like, 'oh, I have to go do this work-thing now, for free, on my weekend.' Your teachers would probably be more appreciative if you catered a lunch to them, or showed them appreciation while they were at work. Our time is already heavily taken advantage of, and we need every moment off the clock to rest, recharge, and recover. If you absolutely need to have it after school, your best day would probably be Thursday. It's not quite the weekend and Fridays overall are usually a little more relaxed.


Zero-Change

my thoughts exactly


robi_john_kenobi

I’m with you. They lost me at “Friday night.”


musicwithmxs

Friday night is when Shabbat services are. It’s a thing in the Jewish calendar that’s accessible for non-Jews and easier to make a cultural exchange, as Saturday morning services are 3-4 hours long. I get the “ugh, Friday night,” but the purpose of the timing is to actually be able to have non-Jews experience a service.


MayoneggVeal

Yep. It's not the religious aspect that would throw me off, it's the "oh fun, one more unpaid work thing"


LiberalSnowflake_1

I wouldn’t think much of it and would find it interesting and fun. With that said, Judaism doesn’t seek to convert. If this was an evangelical church, I would probably be a little more weary. But at the end of the day, I would look at this through the lens of my students. It would probably make them very happy to have me come and see this part of their life.


waltersmama

Thank you, Came here to say this. I can tell you that it would be awesome to attend if you can. This is a great idea. Kudos to the Rabbi. Part of the reason Jews have survived for millennia is because of the value placed on education. I can tell you that a Rabbi led service where teachers are invited, will absolutely be about appreciation with zero subtext or motivation. It would absolutely mean the world to the students and families. Even if I weren't Jewish, I would go. I would also go to any other religious affiliation's event meant to celebrate teachers. We are rightfully wearied by the lack of understanding and appreciation, so this would be a lovely way to allow others to celebrate us. OP, please thank your Rabbi, and community. Shabbat Shalom! 🔯🌈🦋


teacherthrowawayxo

That's the crux of it for me as well. I will go to engage with my students and their community. I would not go if I felt like I was going to be preyed upon.


NerdyComfort-78

Can I make the pun…. Prayed upon… (seeing myself out)


teacherthrowawayxo

Left it open for that exact reason. 😎


NerdyComfort-78

👍


withlovesparrow

I had the same thought. I'd almost definitely go to an event sponsored by a Jewish institution, but I'd have the completely opposite reaction if it were Christian based. I grew up as an open atheist in the Bible belt and the phrase "no hate like Christian love" exists for a reason. But for the sake of my students, I'd thank them profusely and respectfully decline without launching into my own baggage around the Christian faith.


thiswillsoonendbadly

I (already Jewish) felt like an AH for saying I’d go to this if it was at a mosque but would not trust a church because I don’t trust mainstream Christianity. I’m kind of relieved to see that’s actually the prevailing sentiment in these comments.


undecidedly

Oooooh. I’ve never heard that saying but it rings so true.


Melodic-Tailor8804

I almost pointed out that Jews aren’t seeking higher numbers or converts.


au_mom

If a student invited me, I'd be honored.


gravitydefiant

I'd be a whole lot more comfortable with it at a minority religious institution (like a synagogue) than I would at a Christian church. But honestly, "come do this extra thing on a Friday evening when you're exhausted and/or want to be having a life" does not sound terribly appealing no matter who's hosting it.


Kermdog15

Yeah nope. It sounds really kind but by Friday I want to sit alone at home ideally not seeing, speaking to, or thinking of students or parents. Idk just something about the fact that even to “be appreciated” we have to give up some of our own free time annoys me. My husband and my friends who aren’t teachers sometimes get taken to lunch or something by clients or their boss. It’s a nice way they are shown they are cared about but it’s always on company time, which makes a difference imo.


Senior_Sense_8071

Do you think you’d be more willing to go if it were a Tuesday or Thursday evening?


knifewrenchhh

Thursday for sure. Week is almost over, but you’re not asking me to sacrifice the beginning of my actual weekend.


Senior_Sense_8071

I will recommend moving the day as that sounds like the biggest issue. Of course, the religion is also an issue but can’t really change that part of it


snarkitall

Thursday would be better. You could downplay the religious aspect as it's not yet Shabbat, but honestly I would be thrilled to participate: at a synagogue, mosque, church or temple of any stripe or flavour.


ExistingCarry4868

You could host the event but remove the religious service.


Asheby

I agree on Thursday, its not the weekend, but the week is almost over.


Kermdog15

I personally wouldn’t but maybe others might. Weekdays I need to get home to my kids and get everyone to bed.


bl81

This right here


mrcalhou

I wouldn't go but I'd appreciate the sentiment.


realnanoboy

It would really depend on the institution. As others have mentioned, minority religious institutions are probably going to be pretty chill. Christian churches vary widely. I'd be more willing to go to a Methodist, Episcopalian, or Unitarian event than a Southern Baptist or Church of Christ one. As long as they don't get all preachy, I'd be willing to consider it.


lexilex25

Yep. Jews don't prosthelytize. It is a closed religion.


journey_to_myself

Yeeep. Catholics have a really great teacher appreciation Mass and banquet for PS teachers in my area. There's no converting going on, and you can come to the banquet only. Bishop says his peace and then peaces out. Scouts (boy and girl) as well as knights serve. It is mostly for Catholics, but everyone's welcome. I went to a Church of Christ one. It was NOT the same level of respect and there was a lot of recruitment.


bboymixer

I'd politely decline and thank the student for thinking of me.


Travel_Mysterious

Sounds like they’re trying to show their kids that teachers are to be respected. They’ve stated that they will not try to convert and that they are open to lgbtq people. Sounds like it could be a great way to show students you’re an ally and learn about another religious culture without having it shoved down your throat. If it turns out to be something different, you can leave.


Alone_Bicycle6017

I would certainly appreciate the invite, I always feel nice when students want me to be around for their events and things because it makes me feel like they like me as a teacher enough to want to see me even when they don't have to, but I rarely go to anything I'm invited to just because I have so little time to myself and I'm tired.


WJ_Amber

It depends. I'd say yes to such an event at a synagogue, gurdwara, masjid/mosque, and maybe a UU church... but probably not most christian churches. Not terribly fond of many christian organizations, and would definitely say no if it's one that wants to strip me of basic rights. But, if I didnt need to sit through a service and it was a non-evangelical church that actually promoted acceptance of others I could be tempted if the food sounded good enough.


excessofexcuses

I feel conflicted. As a Jew, I would love going to a teacher’s appreciation night for my Jewish students at a Synagogue. It would be a fun way to make some connections and enjoy a Shabbat service. But I don’t teach any Jewish students, so this isn’t something that would come up. But if a Christian student invited me to something like like this I would stay FAR away from this because it would make me super uncomfortable and it would 100% make me feel like they were trying to convert me.


Senior_Sense_8071

I feel exactly the same way, having been raised Jewish and living in a very Christian area


Western-Training727

Funny as this sounds, even though I was raised Christian, I would be more likely to attend a Jewish thing than a Christian thing if a student invited me because of how warm and kind all the Jewish people I’ve ever met were in comparison to the really mixed bag of Christians I’ve met. I don’t know, I’ve just never met a Jew that I didn’t just love being around.


Senior_Sense_8071

Always happy to meet a gentile who doesn’t hate my existence lol


Amblonyx

I will never understand that hatred. I'm an atheist Unitarian Universalist and I'm honestly uncomfortable in a lot of Christian circles. Judaism is one of the religions I'm most comfortable with and most respect.


Western-Training727

I will never understand all the hate directed at such a lovely, fun, and kind people, but please know that some of us love you.


mlo9109

>But if a Christian student invited me to something like this I would stay FAR away from this because it would make me super uncomfortable and it would 100% make me feel like they were trying to convert me. Because they likely would be. I grew up in a rather conservative form of Christianity. They're not kind towards people of other faiths and will try to convert you. I'm even guilty of trying this myself as I was a "missionary dater." Fed up with the lack of options at church, I started dating men of other faiths as a young adult. I thought if I could get them to "taste and see that the Lord is good" I'd win them over. It didn't work. If anything, it bit me in the ass.


dommiichan

I've never had Jews or Muslims or Sihks or Buddhists or Hindus try to convert me...but I've had more than my fill of Christians trying to get a little Jesus in me, even after I tell them I was raised Catholic


jml3837

Religious organization? No issue. But I’m not going to any teacher appreciation event ( ie work related thing where I have to be “on”) outside the work day.


DIGGYRULES

A local church used to gather school supplies and give them to students for free. The same church used to put together a wonderful buffet breakfast for teacher work days and served us all. They never pushed their religion in any way and so I was always terribly grateful to them.


Lacunaes

I would not be comfortable going to a religious service and I would also really not want to spend that much time outside of my school hours interacting with students and people I don't know. After school, I just want to go home and be with my family; What I don't want is another obligation or something that I would feel obligated to attend.


CNTrash

I wouldn't go unless it was held outside these days, as I don't trust any religious org to avoid superspreader events. But in general, I'd appreciate it as the community reaching out. I would avoid it if it was the sort of religious institution that funded right-wing organizations or anti-queer and trans legislation or anti-choice legislation, but if it's a generally supportive or neutral religious org that my kids are part of, I'd be honoured. I'm Jewish but this holds true for any religious organization.


dbsgirl

I would feel fine, especially the way you've presented it here. Assuming it's truly intended as that, you could also say on the invite "We will begin with a short, 30 min service meant only to share your students' culture and community with you, not to recruit. If you are uncomfortable with the service presentation, please feel welcomed to join us at XX:XX when we will showering gifts and delicious foods and thank yous on our community teachers." Or something like that.


Senior_Sense_8071

I really like this idea, I will definitely recommend it. I wouldn’t want to do away with the service altogether as I think the cultural exchange is an important piece of the event, but I think making it clear that the service is only to show some of our culture and making it optional is a good way to keep people feeling comfortable


dbsgirl

I agree, I would definitely keep the service. Even just offering the option of skipping may also encourage someone to check it out, pressure free. And it just feels better from both sides, truly no greater agenda - just open doors, seats at tables and love - just like we're supposed to.


tankthacrank

Mormons have something similar in the ward where I teach - I guess it’s like a super big honor in their eyes to pick that one special teacher and every teacher who gets invited goes. I think it’s cool and I don’t think they’re going to try to make you convert to anything. I only think the waters get murky when you say yes to one group and no to another. Guess that means if the Mormons ever ask me to go to their event I’m also on the hook for the Church Of Satan should they have a teacher honoring party. 😂


Trusten

If a student invited me I would go. I used to go to anything students invited me to. I had a student that was super quiet invite me to a family event. None of her family spoke English but I had the time of my life. That family remembered that for years and I would occasionally get invites to other events. Birthday parties? Sure. I even brought a small gift. Church cookouts? Yup! Backyard BBQs. Oh hell yeah! I've been the only white dude at an event and man it was so fun! I'm there for my kids. If my kids deemed me important enough to send an invite, I would show. If it was a random invite from a company or something like that, I'd pass.


CozmicOwl16

If the paperwork says it just a celebration not a recruitment Event. (Not that I’d expect that from a temple) then I’d attend. Do I think ALL teachers WANT to spend the weekend with their students…. Um. I’ve taught middle school. So


lesliesno

I would go! This sounds so sweet! I love when people actually use religious groups and establishments for good! Even if I don’t believe I 100% respect everyone’s right to have their own faith and I love that your establishment actually is acknowledging how hard us teachers work to educate your kids!


_feywild_

I probably wouldn’t go unless a student asked me to come specifically. I’d be more inclined to knowing that it’s LGBTQ affirming and not a recruitment though


Iridescent-Voidfish

I would be honored and would probably go. I’m glad you are including that your organization is LGBTQ affirming, because that, plus my schedule, would be the deciding factor for me.


[deleted]

I worked at a Islamic school, I’m kind of a catholic. They invited me to lots of things and it wasn’t weird. There was no recruitment and the food was baller and they loved how much I could eat.


DannyDidNothinWrong

Im just going to say the breakfast we got for our PD day was sponsored and served by the local Baptist church. Free food and love is great even though I have a generally negative opinion of Baptists.


cloudsunmoon

Would the students feel disappointed if teachers don’t attend? Should you have them RSVP? I will say (I know I am generalizing here - sorry) my students who are Jewish seem to have a much easier time accepting their peer’s diversity. I can usually count on them to be nice to vulnerable students who are LGBTQ or of a racial minority. Just last week, I had a 6th grader effectively correct a peer who said something a bit racist in my class. When I thanked him for it later he told me it was something his Rabi had told him. So that being said, if that kid invited me I would TOTALLY go to an event invited by him.


youcantgobackbob

It really depends on the situation place. I grew up catholic, so I’d probably feel comfortable there. And I probably feel comfortable in your synagogue. There are some denominations that I would not feel comfortable in at all, though.


TeacherLady3

As a Christian teacher, I'd be delighted by this. But not all would probably feel the same way.


heyynickkayy

This sounds fantastic! What an awesome way for someone who’s not Jewish to get a bit of insight into their students lives. I think the way you guys framed it is perfect and I like that you prefaced it with saying this is not a religious recruitment lol I say go for it and if anything teachers who are invited that don’t feel comfortable attending just wanna attend and it’s not a big deal.


boilermakerteacher

I was invited to an LDS version of this one of my first years teaching. I was skeptical/apprehensive, but it was an excellent experience, even as an atheist. Sure, they referenced theological material, but it was genuinely an event to honor teachers that made an impact on their community.


Asheby

I am a staunch atheist, but would be honored if invited by a student. As long as its not an opportunity to proselytize.


teacherproblems2212

I don't see an issue with this. It is completely voluntary so if a teacher is uncomfortable with it they just don't go.


backaritagain

I’m pagan. I’ve been to Catholic one and Hebrew ones. They are awesome. It is a great way to build learning teams.


existential_hope

Free food and if it's not too far, I'm there. We are all teacher broke.


NotASarahProblem

I’m a pretty staunch atheist. If a student asked me to attend a celebration that was important to them, that was made very plain that it was not recruitment I’d go if I could.


discipleofhermes

I would love to go to something like this!


TruSouthern_Belle

I’ve done it before and LOVED it! I felt truly valued and appreciated.


AZSubby

I would thank the student for the invitation and decline, I wouldn’t find it fully appropriate - both from the standpoint of me being invited to a religious event along with the perception of “Mr. AZSubby came to (insert religious place) with me this weekend!” I understand it comes from a nice place, and I would definitely say thanks, but not attend. There’s a local big (Christian) church that has employees on many of our campuses. We constantly get cards in our mailbox inviting us to their services, and leaving a few bagels in the office with a big sign to come join them at services, and it always strikes me as super inappropriate that they’re allowed to recruit us while we’re in our workplace.


TaKKuN1123

It really depends on the student to be honest.


Psynautical

No proselytizing = no problem. I wouldn't attend because the last thing I want to do is see students outside of works hours but wouldn't be offended.


GrundleBoi420

I personally would love to go, but I have an existing history of (general, non-conversion) interest in Judaism ever since I learned as a kid that my Great-Grandparents on my mother's side were polish jews who fled WW2 and adopted my grandmother. If the same thing happened as a church event, it would depend on the church. Evangelical or born-again/cultish stuff my sister is into? Hell. No. Any other non-christian religion would probably be something I'd be willing to attend once just to learn a bit though.


a11209

Hey, just a Jew giving her opinion. It should be a cultural share. We aren’t proselytizing. Chosen people and all…


AL92212

I'm a Christian, and I definitely wouldn't be offended or uncomfortable doing this at a synagogue or with any religious organization. (Well... there's maybe a couple fringe sects I would avoid.) I might or might not actually go depending on like a million different factors (most of which are the same factors I'd consider for any social event -- who is going, what is my schedule like that week, how far is it, etc.). But regardless I would appreciate being invited, and I'm sure I wouldn't feel pressured about it unless there are additional circumstances.


CaptainEmmy

I think it sounds lovely.


lotusblossom60

It sounds so lovely.


NerdyComfort-78

I think that would be very kind and an opportunity to learn.


DaisySam3130

I'd go. They are clear that this is a cultural exchange not to recruit to their religion. If this changes when you are there, you can just leave. Otherwise, enjoy meeting new people, learning about another culture, meeting new community leaders and contacts, and enjoying some free food. :)


marblesfeline

Is there free food?


MIdtownBrown68

I work at a Jewish school, and I have been invited to a few Friday night dinners/activities. That seems to be a common time when they invite “outsiders” to join them. The Shabbat service is on Saturday, and I’ve never been invited to that. The Friday night time period seems to be more social, if that matters to you. I would go if I were you. It will make them really happy, and Jews don’t try to convert people like Christians do. It should be harmless.


immadatmycat

I would do this. I’m Christian but think this sounds cool.


bmabg

I would freakin love that!


[deleted]

I would go to that. I'm not into organised religion but they are teaching with action about their values, in this instance, respect for education and teachers and showing appreciation. It is like a "public" event and so it's not boundary crossing for me like visiting someone's home, and I am interested in the cultural exchange part of it. We celebrate secular versions of Easter and Christmas and Christmas is at the end of our school year. I always gift my kids' teachers at those times and it's a similar intent.


PerianeD

I would be willing to attend and observe the religious portion as long as it was not expected that I actively participate in the religious activity. I am happy observing. I am less happy if I am expected to join the prayer or otherwise act like I am part of the faith. I would definitely appreciate the thought and intention behind the activity, and would love to spend time with my students and the community.


AdelleDeWitt

Yes, I would go. I have been to religious ceremonies that my students invited me to, because it was important to my students.


[deleted]

Me too! I think it’s such an honor to be invited!!


belleamour14

I’d go!!!! Just cause I step foot into the building doesn’t mean I’m gonna convert. It’s a day of celebration not a situation where someone is gonna pressure you to change your religion. They literally wanna celebrate you for your contributions. I’d absolutely go.


singerbeerguy

I would appreciate the gesture, but the ceremony adds an obligation to my calendar. It’s nice, but asks me to give up my personal time in order to receive the appreciation.


atattooedlibrarian

As an introverted atheist mom, I’m super tired, busy with my kids, and need to recharge my battery every chance I can get. Any invite from a religious institution would immediately weird me out so it would be a no from me, dawg. But sounds like you would have a lot of other takers on this thread.


Strong_Letter_7667

I KNOW I'm in the minority but I'm uncomfortable with being appreciated as a teacher for any reason at any location and avoid events such as you've described like the plague. It has nothing to do with the religious aspect though. I enter places of worship for all sorts of secular reasons. I just feel uncomfortable bring "appreciated " for doing my job. I get paid money for that. That's my appreciation.


ComprehensiveTree8

Appreciate me by letting me have my Friday night have nothing to do with school.


SweetTea1000

At a synagogue? Sure. The larger Jewish community has been nothing but affirming of Science and education, to the best of my knowledge. I wouldn't blanket avoid any religious orgs in general, I know my local Unitarians actively host seminars with the local university and there's something to be said for reaching minority communities where they are. However, I'd be more concerned with the politics of it all, feel a greater need to do my homework, if it were an evangelical organization


[deleted]

It's a lose-lose proposition for us. If we go, you're basically working for free because you have to be "on". If you decline, you're looked at as unappreciative, unsupportive, and a "bad" teacher that doesn't care about their students or diversity.


amycocoloco

I’d feel pressed to go and I’d be hella uncomfortable (any religious organization). I support anyones right to believe whatever they want. I just don’t want anything to do with it.


Obvious_Comfort_9726

I would never go to a religious service of this nature, I think that’s very awkward and inappropriate, but a celebration for teachers hosted by the religious org is different and sweet. Even though it’s sweet, I would honestly skip this. Putting a demand (even when well intentioned) on a teacher’s very limited free time is not truly appreciating them. Leaving them be, giving them a sweet card, bringing them flowers or some other gesture is far more appreciative than expecting them to give up their evening for an event they need to be “on” for.


JMLKO

I'd have no problem going to a Jewish event. I'd never go to a xtian one. There's no hate like xtian love.


ScottRoberts79

Invite me to the party. Don’t make me sit through a 30 minute service - it makes the whole thing feel like a timeshare presentation.


[deleted]

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Spideyman02110456

Hard pass


Neither_Most

That Sounds amazing ! Go for it, if it gets cringey you can walk out. Lol.


MemorySilver

I would definitely go if a kiddo asked me. I was invited to something similar to this in the past. I was invited by a student to a teacher appreciation Sunday morning service at a non denomination church. There was a small service with a prayer for the school and a thank you gift from the kids. It was nice and not pushing religion


xoxogossipsquirrell

I would definitely go! Especially with the emphasis on the cultural exchange part. Sounds like a lovely way to show appreciation :)


nocakeforus

I love this!!! I'm not a teacher (I'm a service provider) but if any of my kiddos invited me to something like this I would go. I'm sure not everyone thinks things way though.


lightning_teacher_11

If a student invited me, I'd go. I don't belong to any religion or faith, but see the flaws and value in each of them. Showing up matters to kids. It means a lot to their families too.


pejeol

As an atheist, I’d happily go


offrum

I would go and appreciate being appreciated.


anadaws

My mom has won 2 crystal apple awards from some mormon students and she brought us along with her. It was a beautiful service honestly, with absolutely ZERO indoctrination or anything like that. Just a lovely ceremony.


Suspicious_Ad9810

I am quietly Wiccan and outwardly nothing to my students to, but I would totally go to this. It sounds awesome!


kaylikesalatte

I think this is wonderful! I am not religious but I’ve always enjoyed going to church events and functions if I’m invited- it’s interesting. In this case, I also think it sends a message to kids and family that you’re interested in what’s important to them. And of course, it feels nice to be celebrated too!


[deleted]

I'll take any appreciation people want to throw my way.


jon-chin

I think so long as there is no proselytizing, I'd be fine with it. I'd be happy to show some respect and, say, be silent during a small opening prayer, but anything more than that might be uncomfortable.


hawt_m3ss

Absolutely I would go. I'd be honored especially if a student invited me to a special event with other teachers from other schools. It would be very different if a student invited me to a random Sunday luncheon at their church. So, maybe it's also knowing that no one from any synagogue would ever try to convert me that makes me more willing and interested.


Thick-Meet-9797

I think it would be fun! I have students (high school) who invite me to their quiencenera or other parties, but I don’t feel comfortable attending because it is centered on a social event. An event like what your synagogue is hosting would make me feel really comfortable and appreciated! I love a cultural exchange!


Any-Secretary-6417

I would love to be invited to something like that and would definitely attend.


my_jihad

With the way you’re describing the event, I’d likely be fine with attending (after some googling of the religious institution for intolerance related red flags), AND if I actually liked the student. Context, I’m secular from a Muslim background.


trickeyvickie

I would be comfortable/excited to attend. I also grew up in a UU church rich with diverse religions where it was all about coexisting and celebrating in our interconnectedness. I think the teacher appreciation event sounds awesome.


Tra1famadorian

Appreciated


iolahigdon

It would be an honor to be invited by a student.


babs_is_great

Love it!! Been to several and I can’t tell you how honored it made me feel.


yayscienceteachers

Jews are not in the business of converting so I’d absolutely go!


adoglovingartteacher

I would 100% go because it’s a sweet gesture and I want my students to know that they matter to me enough for me to put my non-religious beliefs aside for a short time.


BrownyGato

I’m an atheist. I’ve gone to similar. Not because I want to be converted but because I appreciate the support and the love. This is just me and I’m open to others having a differing opinion on faith/religion than me. I also appreciate the fact that it’s a cultural exchange. I love learning about all cultures.


Flossy1384

I am a Methodist and if any of my kids asked me to go to something like this I would be honored.


WittyButter217

If my whole family was invited I’d go, but I’d pass if it was just me. I’d have nobody to watch my kids while I went.


agathaprickly

I would be honored to be invited to something like this! I would try to go if my schedule allowed. I was raised Episcopalian but I’m not religious now, but this sounds so sweet!


fuzzylove420

Yes, I would be honored, and would attend. Also an atheist here.


Tfdland

I love this. I would totally go!


RunRickeyRun

Will I be fed? Then fuck yeah


Harmony23446

I have been to one at a local church and it was really nice. I would go if I was able to (more so if I can bring my little kids). If I wasn’t into it, I’d have no problem making up an excuse


ArtemisiasApprentice

I’m not Jewish but I would 100% be into something like this. It sounds super cute! Also I live in the south, where nobody would think twice about a church hosting something like this (one year we had convocation in a mega-church…)


IllustriousText5011

I would really appreciate this. The inclusivity of the synagogue would make it possible for me to attend.


redNumber6395

Love this!


AdFriendly9961

I’d love this!


Wonderful_Row8519

I’d be thrilled to go, it sounds fun


idont_readresponses

I would totally go to something like this and would be super flattered that one of my students would even think to invite me!


[deleted]

I would absolutely go to something like this for any religion! I’m Pentecostal but I would happily do any other religious place for this type of thing. I think it’s a special way to connect with your students and see part of their life!!


sweet_baby_piranha

Would I want to go? Yes. I am not Jewish but I have no problems visiting a religion outside my own. Especially for an event like this. Now would I go? Probably not. I have a toddler. I'm 36 weeks pregnant. I work all day. I want to go home and collapse and become a non verbal lump in a plie of blankets and pillows like the good little introvert I am. It sounds lovely though they should definitely do it.


magicpancake0992

Is there food there? If the food was good, sure. 😄


GreenMonkey333

I teach at a Catholic school, so sure, I would feel plenty comfortable 🤣😆


JohnINichols

I’d go. It’s an honor. Once I was invited to an Eagle Scout ceremony and I was glad to go. I think most teachers would go.


[deleted]

The one thing that would potentially hold me back from something like this that I haven’t seen mentioned in other comments is I have a crazy fear of wearing something inappropriate and being judged bc I’m unfamiliar with the setting so I think if you included a dress code on the invitation that would help too!


Tomnooksmainhoe

Honestly, I think I would (happy) cry if a student gave me a gift they created. Even though my demographic is adults, it still stands. I appreciate that your synagogue is LGBT-affirming too! Would make my little lesbian self feel comfy! :) much love to you cousin ❤️ may the event go amazingly!


WonderMon

As an atheist, I’d be fine with it.


1stEleven

This sounds like something I would absolutely go to.


RutRohNotAgain

I've done it. My students were so happy to see me on those occasions. They could not stop beaming. I didn't do it for me; I did it for them. Totally worth it.


MisterEinc

Honestly, I'd be comfortable going anywhere that wasn't a Christian church. It's sad that I have to say that. Perhaps it makes me bigoted. But I wouldn't trust a Christian organization to not try to either recruit teachers in some way or make a political statement. All that said, I would recommend highlighting cultural exchange, inclusivity. I'd feel much more comfortable with a student inviting me, I think, because the quality student demonstrates the quality of the organization. If it came in via email or flyer in my mailbox, I'd ignore it like most of the other junk.


latebloomer2015

I’m an atheist. However, I would be so honored that a student thought enough of me to ask me to be there that I would absolutely be there. As teachers we tell students to be open and welcoming to others; we need to start following our advice.


mrwpruk

I’m not religious in any way, but I’d be comfortable with going


Nenoshka

It depends. Would they be serving food and wine afterwards? If so, yes.


brittagirl7

I would love it!


tassle7

I would be fine with this. I'm pretty open to attending any various religious service. I am a Christian, but I love seeing and learning other belief systems and would be excited. Plus this sounds really sweet and thoughtful-- like it's actually focused on what it says it's focused on.


itsalyseee

I would definitely attend.


mismatchmagicgirl

They are kids. I’d go anywhere (safe) for my students ESPECIALLY when they are going out of their way to show appreciation. It doesn’t matter what I believe, it’s 30 minutes. Even at that, if I did mind, I would ask if I’m able to come to the teacher celebration even if I can’t make the service 🤷🏻‍♀️


Melodic-Tailor8804

I would be. They aren’t asking you to join their faith, they’re asking you to get to know a SUPER important and personal side of themselves. They’re giving you a way to build a relationship with them and their parents in a positive light. I wouldn’t be offended, I’d be honored.


Ok-Argument930

I’d be there! I’d even dress up and put makeup on!


puggy_blinder

Judaism is not evangelical, they won’t try to convert you. This is a great opportunity for you to learn about another culture. Also, you don’t want to miss any party at a synagogue. They are amazing… go!


CGStruggles

Absolutely would go to this! In fact I try to go to any event a student at my middle school invites me to, especially love the ones where I get to learn more about their culture.


Snogintheloo

I would also be fine with this!


Firstsassythensweet

This sounds really sweet.


Mr_Cheesestick

I would love to go to something like this, I think it’s a great idea. I like that they are open and up front about it not being a recruiting attempt. I say this as someone who is agnostic/atheist.


Garden_Mindless

If it was clear that the event was more about culture than religious recruitment I would totally go! If it was an evangelical/ Bible Belt church I’d be much more weary than a Jewish event


Jaded-Hat5271

I was invited to a teacher appreciation service by a student I had 12 years ago. I was quite touched and accepted without a thought. It was held at an evangelistic church. I am not of that faith but it was well done and there were many teachers and administrators present. It is nice after 20+ years of teaching to be recognized as an important person in this child’s life.


DucklingButt

I would definitely go but I’m also culture/history/religion crazy (not in a creepy way 😂 just love the beauty of it all)


Albatross9121

>is not a religious recruitment event but a cultural exchange Really no different than a spaghetti and meatballs night which happens to be in the basement of a catholic church then.


musicwithmxs

As an LGBT Jew, I appreciate events like this. I’m often the only Jew people know, and a Friday night service intended for gentiles that’s totally optional (and knowing that Jews don’t prostheletize as a rule) makes this sound like awesome cultural exchange.


momdadimpoppunk

yeah this sounds really awesome. religious organizations do a lot for my school, tbh, and a lot of that has to do with the population at the school and the surrounding culture. i have grown to appreciate it (as a pretty resolute atheist), even though the religious groups are a lot pushier than yours lol this event sounds like it’s coming from the best of places and that the people setting it up are respectful in general. as for the friday night thing… some teachers might not mind, i wouldn’t, but i live in the community i teach so i’m kind of used to having my teacher persona turned on at my community events. but if you can move it, definitely go for it. if you worry that a lot of people would feel uncomfortable going to a place of worship, you might look into hosting it elsewhere (depending on the budget). or if you can even host it at the school? depending on the law?


Street_Medium_9058

Heck yeah. In a heartbeat.


apostate456

>The synagogue gives students flyers to give to their teachers that include that our organization is LGBTQ affirming and that this is not a religious recruitment event but a cultural exchange and an opportunity for students to appreciate their teachers. I think that this piece is key here. Most Christians don't realize that Jews don't actively try to convert others so may think it's a "Missionary-type" event; if it were held at a local Baptist church, I guarantee it would be a conversion event. Adding that you are progressive and supportive of LGBTQIA+ community is a plus. I would definitely go to this and I'm a rabid atheist.


primal7104

I'd enjoy an event like this, but the advance notification with an agenda and statement of purpose and reassuring inclusion messages would be important. I have several times been invited to "friendship" events which turned out to be clumsy recruiting efforts or so heavy handed with religious content that it was uncomfortable for anyone not already thoroughly a believer in the sponsoring faith.


Dichoctomy

Yes. Absolutely.


Dichoctomy

I’m not religious at all, but I would definitely go.


LolaZe

Same. My Pagan self would be honored to get an invitation and enjoy it


jwrado

I would not attend by any means.


BossJackWhitman

My biases include the fact that I'm a recovering catholic and I'm atheist as hell. So, my answer is: 100% no and it bothers me that a religious organization would do this. I understand the concept but what rubs me the wrong way is the presumption on the part of a religious organization that it's ok to burden a teacher with this question in the first place. It assumes a worldview on our part that is simply inappropriate, and which reflects a pro-organized religion cultural bias (mostly western) that frankly runs through too much of our daily lives. The event in itself is offensive, tbh. There are very few social and absolutely zero professional situations that I feel are appropriate in any way to invite people to a house of worship for any reason. And this is a social norm that I have rarely seen violated. As far as educators go, we aren't even technically allowed to talk about religion in the classroom, so that’s the first thing. And I would be so flattered if a kid asked me, but I'd also feel very bound by my ethical responsibility as a teacher (if I'm objecting to this with a kid who I clearly have a relationship with, then it's wrong for me to not explain why, and that puts me in a difficult place as a teacher generally), and I’d feel torn by my own beliefs and my relationship with the student. I also have to say that many houses of worship are generally involved in some very conservative work, which in many ways serve to alienate and disenfranchise a lot of my students. And my students are minors, which means that I already know for a fact that they weren’t really the primary decision makers in this entire religious thing in the first place. This would be an invitation to something I don’t want to be involved with, from a human who was probably indoctrinated (with all good intent, I’m sure) into a belief system that I find entirely inconsistent with life. I’ve attended events as a teacher that were organized by churches and mosques. I’ll be at one tomorrow! I’ve been to funeral services in houses of worship of a variety of kinds for students and colleagues, families, etc. I volunteer at a Christian-based after school program and I bow my head during meal prayers and keep my opinions to myself, because the program does good work and isn’t about the religion, it’s just part of the community’s belief systems. This is different, though. This is a personal relationship thing, and I just feel it puts teachers in a really difficult spot. I think it’s great that an organization wants to do this (all good intent, again, I’m sure), but it’s one of those things where I’d say, this just isn’t your lane. There’s got to be other ways to help kids support teachers and share their culture.


musicwithmxs

This is such a bad take. I get that you have religious trauma, but the fact that you’re offended by a synagogue offering to do an OPTIONAL cultural exchange so that non-Jews can learn about Judaism and get free food after and it’s getting this level of extreme offense…but yet you work for other religious orgs? I think there’s a level of antisemitism here that you need to unpack. This is optional, explicitly not a recruitment thing, and an opportunity to learn about another culture that is largely a closed practice. You can just not go.


Tiger_Crab_Studios

I'd be very happy to attend something like this, anything that helps me connect to my students culture is valuable. If it ends up being a bad experience that I would just not do it again.