Janet Tatz and Finding Jewish Connection in a Digital World

Janet Tatz, Individual Member, North by Northwest Region

I am interested in “All Things Jewish.” I was brought up in the Conservative movement of Judaism and back then the synagogue we attended, B’nai Zion, was a second home for my friends and me.  My involvement in United Synagogue Youth and Jewish summer camping helped solidify my Jewish identity.

After college, I headed out West and never looked back.  Living in places like Idaho and Montana, especially back in the late 70s and 80s, did not afford much opportunity for Jewish engagement, particularly of the Conservative movement variety.  Judaism was, and to a certain extent still is, of the “do it yourself” variety in many small Western towns.

My mother, of blessed memory, was always involved in Jewish life, in particular Jewish women’s organizations.  Women’s League for Conservative Judaism was one of many.  After she passed on, I decided to continue subscribing to and ultimately join and engage with many of those organizations.  When Women’s League began offering an Individual Membership, mainly accessed via online Zoom sessions, I thought that might be a perfect match for me.  I love how Zoom programming has brought Jewish learning right into my home and onto my desktop.  It is convenient, enjoyable and helps satisfy my desire for Jewish connection, albeit from afar.

I have joined in to several of Women’s League’s online offerings and have found them to be interesting, informative, and worthwhile. I appreciate this opportunity to connect with other Jewish women who live outside of traditional Jewish settings and/or synagogues that support Women’s League.

Thank you, Women’s League for Conservative Judaism, for offering up this creative, timely, and meaningful outlet for Jewish engagement and connection.

Janet Tatz
Individual Member
North by Northwest Region
Helena, Montana