‘tent’ is the initiative for young adults of Liberal Judaism. Services and other events now take place across the country at locations including Birmingham, Manchester, Brighton and Edinburgh.
‘tent’ (note the small t) is guided by a firmly Liberal philosophy (note the big L), but this isn’t particularly pushed, there isn’t too much of the who we are and why we’re here. As you might expect, there is a firm emphasis on inclusivity and you can expect a non-judgemental atmosphere accepting people as they are.
You’ll find the people friendly and interested in making friends, it isn’t cliquey and isn’t particularly cool; simply a comfortable space where people can be themselves. Straight, gay, hipster or nebbish, this is one place where it really doesn’t matter.
Services are not at all traditional with lots of English. It’s gentle and user-friendly with soft lighting, candles, lovely music (a CD was recently launched); a great way to wind down after a tough week. On the flip side it isn’t especially challenging and some of the discussions could be a bit more guided – it’s great to offer people a chance to speak but sometimes you just want to hear from someone who knows their stuff. And despite the warm fluffy packaging there are strong personalities involved in putting this on who definitely do know their stuff.
This is something you can turn up late to, don’t worry about the buzzers and intercoms at some venues, once inside, the welcome is warm. Casual dress is fine.
This is all followed by dinner in a local restaurant so you will need some money; it’s very informal with no booking in advance and there will be no expectations of any particular level of kashrut observance. If you’re a bit more frum or after something traditional then maybe this isn’t the best choice but there is no pressure to come along if you’re not keen. The friendly, intimate atmosphere continues and it’s a good way to meet people.