A 35-year relationship between temple, church fosters understanding

NARRAGANSETT – A priest and rabbi lead a congregation in song and prayer. No, this is not the beginning of a joke; this is the continuation of a wonderful relationship between Congregation Beth David and the Episcopal congregation St. Peter’s by the Sea – a relationship that is now 35 years old!

Beth David and St. Peter’s are just about five blocks from each other, but their nearness goes beyond a geographical closeness. They also share a deep respect for each other’s worship style and the values of ancient texts, and a profound connection that speaks of friendship and esteem.

The Rev. Craig Swan, rector of St. Peter’s, and Rabbi Ethan Adler, of Beth David, have formed a genuine and cherished friendship over several years. In the past, Adler enjoyed a wonderful affiliation with St. Peter’s previous religious leaders.

In the fall, members of Beth David join St. Peter’s for a discussion, Sunday worship and a dairy luncheon. In the spring, members of St. Peter’s visit Beth David on a Friday night for a light dinner, discussion and the Shabbat service.

Beyond services, the two congregations have spent time together studying the Bible, cleaning beaches and hosting a blood drive. In addition, Rabbi Adler and Father Swan have produced several podcasts on various topics.

At this year’s Sunday gathering, just before Thanksgiving, Father Swan announced that in light of the Israel-Hamas conflict, all collections would be donated to the Sandra Bornstein Holocaust Education Center, in Providence.

Father Swan explains the connection between the two religious institutions this way: “I believe the relationship between the two congregations have taught us that although we live in the same community, enjoy similar lifestyles and worship the same God, how we experience world and community events can differ due to our spiritual understanding. Our ongoing conversations allow us to understand the world from each other’s perspectives.”

Rabbi Adler adds, “St. Peter’s has been very open and embracing. We always look forward to sharing services with them, both at St. Peter’s and at Beth David.”

Father Swan said it best at a recent get-together: “When we hurt, they hurt as well,” he said.

Rabbi Adler and Father Swan both said they look forward to many more years of friendship, communal activities, congregational sharing and working together to underscore the possibilities when diverse congregations have a goal of peaceful dwelling with their brothers and sisters.

Submitted by Congregation Beth David