Join us for a special episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, where we have the honor of hosting the vibrant and diverse Gross family. Rabbi Steve Gross shares his incredible journey from Detroit to San Diego, and ultimately to Houston, where he now leads the Houston Congregation for Reform Judaism. His daughter, Lily Gross, discusses her deep connection to Judaism, shaped by her upbringing in Houston and her studies at the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Simon Gross talks about balancing his academic life at the University of Texas at Austin with his orthodox religious studies in Israel. Together, we explore the profound joy found in Jewish traditions, comparing the spirit of Shabbat to the communal feeling of Thanksgiving, and celebrate the importance of family and community.

In this enriching discussion, we uncover the unique dynamics within the Gross family, where diverse expressions of faith coexist harmoniously. The family shares how their open-minded approach allows each member to explore their spiritual journey individually, fostering mutual respect and growth. Rabbi Gross reflects on the joy of watching his children embrace their faith in unique ways, while Lily and Simon express gratitude for the supportive environment their parents have nurtured. We touch on the challenges families face when religious practices differ, highlighting the importance of maintaining personal beliefs while honoring familial bonds.

Listen in as we explore the struggles and beauty of balancing religious observance with everyday life. From stories of individuals striving to connect with their faith amidst life's demands to the impact of mentorship in Jewish learning, this episode underscores the importance of gradual spiritual growth. We highlight the transformative power of choice and meaning in religious observance, emphasizing the need to understand the "why" behind practices rather than simply going through the motions. With reflections on personal faith journeys and the continual effort required to keep one's spiritual practice vibrant, this conversation is sure to inspire and uplift.

Rabbi Steve Gross serves as the Rabbi at Houston Congregation for Reform Judaism in Houston, Texas
Lili Gross is a Rabbinic student in the Conservative Movement's Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies
Simon Gross is a Student at UT Austin and attending Yeshiva Ohr Sameach in Jerusalem, Israel

Recorded in TORCH Centre - Studio A2 in Houston, Texas on November 30, 2024.
Released as Podcast on December 8, 2024
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• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
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• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

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