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{{dablink|This article is about the Jewish organization. For other meanings, see [[Gateways (disambiguation)]].}}
{{primary sources|date=June 2010}}
{{primary sources|date=June 2010}}
'''Gateways''' is an organization whose self-declared mission is it to "raise [[Jew]]ish consciousness and help stem the rising tide of [[Jewish assimilation]] among [[American Jews]]."<ref>Gateways Shavuot Retreat pamphlet, page 1.</ref>
'''Gateways''' is an international organization whose self-declared mission is it to "raise [[Jew]]ish consciousness."<ref>Gateways Shavuot Retreat pamphlet, page 1.</ref>


==Origins==
==Origins==
Gateways was founded in 1998 by Rabbi Mordechai Suchard with the stated goal of "providing opportunities for Jews to unlock the treasure of their heritage through dynamic educational and social programs."<ref>Gateways Shavuot Retreat pamphlet, inside of front cover.</ref> The organization is based in [[Monsey, New York]], [[USA]]. It began as an American offshoot of [[Arachim]] (meaning "values"), an [[Israel]]i [[Judaism]] outreach organization founded in 1979.<ref>[http://www.neveh.org/price/pricerosh64.html neveh.org]</ref> Funding for Gateways is entirely from individual donors.
Gateways was founded in 1998 by Rabbi Mordechai Suchard with the stated goal of "providing opportunities for Jews to unlock the treasure of their heritage through dynamic educational and social programs."<ref>Gateways Shavuot Retreat pamphlet, inside of front cover.</ref> The organization is based in [[Monsey, New York]], United States. It began as an American offshoot of [[Arachim]] (meaning "values"), an Israeli [[Judaism]] outreach organization founded in 1979.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.neveh.org/price/pricerosh64.html |title=neveh.org |access-date=2008-06-15 |archive-date=2008-05-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080509090116/http://www.neveh.org/price/pricerosh64.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> Funding for Gateways is entirely from individual donors.


==Programs==
==Programs==
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* Services focused on the [[Russian Jew#Jews in Russia today|Russian American Jewish]] community.
* Services focused on the [[Russian Jew#Jews in Russia today|Russian American Jewish]] community.
* Singles networking and matchmaking.
* Singles networking and matchmaking.
* Learning opportunities via the internet, including the an "[[Ask the rabbi]]" portal.<ref>[http://www.jewishpress.com/displayContent_new.cfm?contentid=25427&mode=a&contentname=Excuse_Me%2E%2E%2E__%28Part_Two%29&recnum=0&sectionid=14 jewishpress.com]</ref><ref>[http://www.asktherabbi.org asktherabbi.org]</ref>
* Learning opportunities via the internet, including an "[[Ask the rabbi]]" portal.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://www.jewishpress.com/multimedia/video-picks/yishai-fleisher-interview-with-rabbi-adin-steinsaltz/2020/09/09/|title=Yishai Fleisher Interview with Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz|first=Video of the|last=Day}}</ref><ref name="auto2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.asktherabbi.org/|title=Ask The Rabbi - Get Your Jewish Questions Answered|website=AskTheRabbi.org}}</ref>
* Life skills and professional development seminars.
* Life skills and professional development seminars.
* [[Jewish holiday]] programs.
* [[Jewish holiday]] programs.


In addition to the New York metropolitan area, the organization hosts events throughout the United States.<ref name="thejewishweek.com">[http://www.thejewishweek.com/viewArticle/c268_a2072/News/New_York/Queens.html thejewishweek.com]</ref><ref name="newsbank.com">[http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=PA&p_theme=pa&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=107499C4185C3BCF&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM newsbank.com]</ref><ref name="thejewishexperience.com">[http://www.thejewishexperience.com/About/about.htm thejewishexperience.com]</ref><ref>[http://www.jewishaz.com/jewishnews/010608/kollel.shtml jewishaz.com]</ref>
In addition to the New York metropolitan area, the organization hosts events throughout the United States.<ref name="thejewishweek.com">{{Cite web|url=http://www.thejewishweek.com/viewArticle/c268_a2072/News/New_York/Queens.html|title=thejewishweek.com}}{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref name="newsbank.com">{{Cite web|url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=PA&p_theme=pa&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=107499C4185C3BCF&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM|title=NewsBank for PBDN|website=nl.newsbank.com}}</ref><ref name="thejewishexperience.com">{{Cite web|url=http://www.thejewishexperience.com/About/about.htm|title=thejewishexperience.com - thejewishexperience Resources and Information.|website=www.thejewishexperience.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewishaz.com/jewishnews/010608/kollel.shtml|title=jewishaz.com|access-date=2008-06-15|archive-date=2006-10-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061030002558/http://www.jewishaz.com/jewishnews/010608/kollel.shtml|url-status=dead}}</ref>


==Gateways personalities==
==Gateways personalities==
Gateways is staffed by a team of 45 working in seven departments.<ref>[http://www.kiruv.com/Community/index.php kiruv.com]</ref>
Gateways is staffed by a team of 45 working in seven departments.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.kiruv.com/Community/index.php |title=kiruv.com |access-date=2008-06-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080617024024/http://www.kiruv.com/Community/index.php |archive-date=2008-06-17 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


===Rabbi Mordechai Suchard===
===Rabbi Mordechai Suchard===
[[File:RabbiSuchard.jpg|thumb|[[Mordechai Suchard|Rabbi Mordechai Suchard]], left, with a guest at the Gateways [[Shavuot]] Retreat in 2008]]
[[File:RabbiSuchard.jpg|thumb|[[Mordechai Suchard|Rabbi Mordechai Suchard]], left, with a guest at the Gateways [[Shavuot]] Retreat in 2008]]


Rabbi Mordechai Suchard is the founder<ref>[http://www.thejewishweek.com/viewArticle/c36_a4653/News/New_York.html thejewishweek.com]</ref> and executive director of Gateways.<ref>[http://www.gatewaysonline.com/about.asp gatewaysonline.com]</ref> He is a Jewish educator, speaker and author.<ref>[http://torahmedia.com/author/Rabbi_Mordechai~Suchard.html torahmedia.com/]</ref>
Rabbi Mordechai Suchard is the founder<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.thejewishweek.com/viewArticle/c36_a4653/News/New_York.html|title=thejewishweek.com}}{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> and executive director of Gateways.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gatewaysonline.com/about.asp|title=gatewaysonline.com|access-date=2008-06-20|archive-date=2008-06-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080616022038/http://www.gatewaysonline.com/about.asp|url-status=dead}}</ref> He is a Jewish educator, speaker and author.<ref name="auto1">{{Cite web|url=https://torahmedia.com/author/Rabbi_Mordechai~Suchard.html|title=Rabbi Mordechai Suchard - TorahMedia.com|website=torahmedia.com}}</ref>


====Biography====
====Biography====
Suchard was born in [[South Africa]].<ref>[http://www.thejewishweek.com/viewarticle/c343_a2072/News/New_York/Neighborhoods.html thejewishweek.com]</ref> His father is a [[dayan]] (ecclesiastical "judge") on the [[Johannesburg]] [[Beth Din]]. He studied at the [[Telshe yeshiva]], in [[Cleveland, Ohio]]. He attended [[Ponevezh yeshiva|Ponevezh]] in [[Bnei Brak]], [[Israel]], and received his rabbinic ordination from Rabbi Itzhak Kolitz, the [[Chief Rabbi]] of [[Jerusalem]] and Dean of the Jerusalem Beth Din.
Suchard was born in [[South Africa]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.thejewishweek.com/viewarticle/c343_a2072/News/New_York/Neighborhoods.html|title=thejewishweek.com}}{{Dead link|date=May 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> His father is a [[Dayan (rabbinic judge)|dayan]] (ecclesiastical "judge") on the [[Johannesburg]] [[Beth Din]]. He studied at the [[Telshe yeshiva]], in [[Cleveland, Ohio]]. He attended [[Ponevezh yeshiva|Ponevezh]] in [[Bnei Brak]], Israel, and received his rabbinic ordination from Rabbi Itzhak Kolitz, the [[Chief Rabbi]] of [[Jerusalem]] and Dean of the Jerusalem Beth Din.


Suchard founded Gateways to promote the continuity of [[Judaism]]. He has established and run a network of outreach organizations targeting college students, young professionals, singles and Russian immigrants in the United States. He is active in Jewish education on the Internet.<ref name="jprisms.com">[http://www.jprisms.com/whoweare.asp jprisms.com]</ref>
Suchard founded Gateways to promote the continuity of [[Judaism]]. He has established and run a network of outreach organizations targeting college students, young professionals, singles and Russian immigrants in the United States. He is active in Jewish education on the Internet.<ref name="jprisms.com">{{Cite web |url=http://www.jprisms.com/whoweare.asp |title=jprisms.com |access-date=2008-06-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080607091325/http://www.jprisms.com/whoweare.asp |archive-date=2008-06-07 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
Suchard has served on the rabbinical board of "Ask The Rabbi"<ref>[http://www.AskTheRabbi.org AskTheRabbi.org]</ref> answering questions about Jewish law, philosophy and ethics.<ref name="asktherabbi.org">[http://www.asktherabbi.org/bios.asp asktherabbi.org]</ref>
Suchard has served on the rabbinical board of "Ask The Rabbi"<ref name="auto2"/> answering questions about Jewish law, philosophy and ethics.<ref name="asktherabbi.org">{{Cite web|url=http://www.asktherabbi.org/bios.asp|title=asktherabbi.org|access-date=2008-06-20|archive-date=2008-07-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080704170539/http://www.asktherabbi.org/bios.asp|url-status=dead}}</ref>


He speaks across America on Jewish issues such as [[Nevi'im|prophecy]] and seeing [[Names of God in Judaism|God]] in one's life.<ref name="newsbank.com"/><ref>[http://torahmedia.com/author/Rabbi_Mordechai~Suchard.html torahmedia.com]</ref><ref>[http://www.jewishaz.com/jewishnews/010608/kollel.shtml newsbank.com]</ref>
He speaks across America on Jewish issues such as [[Nevi'im|prophecy]] and seeing [[Names of God in Judaism|God]] in one's life.<ref name="newsbank.com"/><ref name="auto1"/><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.jewishaz.com/jewishnews/010608/kollel.shtml|title=newsbank.com|access-date=2008-06-15|archive-date=2006-10-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061030002558/http://www.jewishaz.com/jewishnews/010608/kollel.shtml|url-status=dead}}</ref>


Suchard was on the American delegation accompanying US President [[George W. Bush|George Bush]] when he visited Israel in May 2008 to mark the country's sixtieth birthday celebrations.<ref>[http://www.nysun.com/foreign/bush-visit-may-boost-olmert/76303/ nysun.com]</ref><ref>[http://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/news/releases/2008/05/20080512.html whitehouse.gov]</ref>
Suchard was on the American delegation accompanying US President [[George W. Bush|George Bush]] when he visited Israel in May 2008 to mark the country's sixtieth birthday celebrations.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nysun.com/foreign/bush-visit-may-boost-olmert/76303/|title=Bush Visit May Boost Olmert|website=The New York Sun}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/news/releases/2008/05/20080512.html|title=Statement by the Press Secretary|website=georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov}}</ref>


====Political views====
====Political views====
Rabbi Suchard is a supporter of [[United States Senator|Senator]] [[Joe Lieberman]], contributing to his political campaign from 2002 to 2006.<ref>[http://www.campaignmoney.com/political/contributions/mordechai-suchard.asp?cycle=06 campaignmoney.com]</ref>
Rabbi Suchard is a supporter of [[United States Senator|Senator]] [[Joe Lieberman]], contributing to his political campaign from 2002 to 2006.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.campaignmoney.com/political/contributions/mordechai-suchard.asp?cycle=06|title=Mordechai Suchard - $500 in Political Contributions for 2006|website=www.campaignmoney.com}}</ref>


===Rabbi Mordechai Becher===
===Rabbi Mordechai Becher===
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====Biography====
====Biography====
Born in [[Australia]], Becher attended the Bialik College in [[Melbourne, Australia|Melbourne]] for [[elementary school]]. He received his rabbinic ordination from the Chief Rabbinate of [[Israel]] and the [[Chief Rabbi]] of [[Jerusalem]]. Shortly thereafter, he started lecturing at [[Neve Yerushalayim]], Darchei Binah<ref>[https://www.yiws.org/becher.php yiws.org]</ref> and [[Ohr Somayach, Jerusalem|Ohr Somayach]] College, remaining at the latter for 15 years. He also served as a senior lecturer at Ohr Somayach Thornhill for four years in [[Toronto]], [[Ontario]], from 1992 to 1996.<ref name="torahinmotion.org">[http://www.torahinmotion.org/spkrs_crnr/faculty/bioMordechaiBecher.htm torahinmotion.org]</ref>
Born in Australia, Becher attended the Bialik College in [[Melbourne, Australia|Melbourne]] for [[elementary school]]. He received his rabbinic ordination from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and the [[Chief Rabbi]] of [[Jerusalem]]. Shortly thereafter, he started lecturing at [[Neve Yerushalayim]], Darchei Binah<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.yiws.org/becher.php |title=yiws.org |access-date=2008-06-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111004162709/https://www.yiws.org/becher.php |archive-date=2011-10-04 |url-status=dead }}</ref> and [[Ohr Somayach, Jerusalem|Ohr Somayach]] College, remaining at the latter for 15 years. He also served as a senior lecturer at Ohr Somayach Thornhill for four years in [[Toronto]], [[Ontario]], from 1992 to 1996.<ref name="torahinmotion.org">{{Cite web|url=http://www.torahinmotion.org/spkrs_crnr/faculty/bioMordechaiBecher.htm|title=torahinmotion.org|access-date=2008-06-20|archive-date=2008-07-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080723143103/http://www.torahinmotion.org/spkrs_crnr/faculty/bioMordechaiBecher.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref>


Becher first moved to Israel in 1978, and served in the [[armoured infantry]] in the [[Israel Defense Forces]],.<ref name="jewishworldreview.com">[http://jewishworldreview.com/jwisdom/becher.php3 jewishworldreview.com]</ref> He was an army [[chaplain]],<ref>[http://www.canfeinesharim.org/who_we_are/boards.php?page=11841 canfeinesharim.org]</ref> teaching in training programs for rabbis and educators. His wife, Chavy, is from [[Philadelphia, Pennsylvania|Philadelphia]], [[Pennsylvania]] in 1985 and lived for a time in [[Kiryat Moshe]], [[Israel]].<ref>[http://www.simpletoremember.com/audio/rabbi-mordechai-becher.htm Rabbi Becher's presentation entitled ''Archeology/History of Israel'' (audio)]</]</ref> He has co-authored two books on contemporary issues in [[Jewish law]] and has responded to legal, ethical and philosophical questions on the Ohr Somayach "Ask the Rabbi" website.
Becher first moved to Israel in 1978, and served in the [[Mechanized infantry|armoured infantry]] in the [[Israel Defense Forces]],.<ref name="jewishworldreview.com">{{Cite web|url=http://jewishworldreview.com/jwisdom/becher.php3|title=Rabbi Mordechai Becher: Wandering in Wonder|website=jewishworldreview.com}}</ref> He was an army [[chaplain]],<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.canfeinesharim.org/who_we_are/boards.php?page=11841 |title=canfeinesharim.org |access-date=2008-06-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090813044911/http://www.canfeinesharim.org/who_we_are/boards.php?page=11841 |archive-date=2009-08-13 |url-status=dead }}</ref> teaching in training programs for rabbis and educators. His wife, Chavy, is from [[Philadelphia, Pennsylvania|Philadelphia]], [[Pennsylvania]] in 1985 and lived for a time in [[Kiryat Moshe]], Israel.<ref>[http://www.simpletoremember.com/audio/rabbi-mordechai-becher.htm Rabbi Becher's presentation entitled ''Archeology/History of Israel'' (audio)]</]</ref> He has co-authored two books on contemporary issues in [[Jewish law]] and has responded to legal, ethical and philosophical questions on the Ohr Somayach "Ask the Rabbi" website.


Becher considers Rabbi Moshe Shapiro to be his ''rebbe'', or primary mentor in areas of Torah and Judaism.<ref>[http://www.simpletoremember.com/audio/rabbi-mordechai-becher.htm Rabbi Becher's presentation entitled ''Witchcraft and Wizardry'' (audio)]</ref>
Becher considers Rabbi Moshe Shapiro to be his ''rebbe'', or primary mentor in areas of Torah and Judaism.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.simpletoremember.com/authors/a/rabbi-mordechai-becher|title=Rabbi Mordechai Becher - free Jewish downloads mp3s|website=www.simpletoremember.com}}</ref>


Becher lives with his wife and their six children in [[Passaic Park]].<ref name="torahinmotion.org"/>
Becher lives with his wife and their six children in [[Passaic Park]].<ref name="torahinmotion.org"/>


====Gateways====
====Gateways====
Becher is a Senior Lecturer for Gateways.<ref>[http://www.gatewaysonline.com/staff.asp gatewaysonline.com]</ref> He also lectures for [[Project Genesis (organization)|Project Genesis]] and is one of the leading voices in American Orthodox Jewish outreach.<ref>[http://www.jewishpress.com/displayContent_new.cfm?contentid=15969&mode=a&contentname=Planning_The_Future_Of_Kiruv%3A_Hundreds_of_Outreach_Leaders_Meet_at_AJOP_Convention&recnum=0&sectionid=14 jewishpress.com]</ref>
Becher is a Senior Lecturer for Gateways.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gatewaysonline.com/staff.asp|title=gatewaysonline.com|access-date=2008-06-20|archive-date=2008-05-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080517141914/http://www.gatewaysonline.com/staff.asp|url-status=dead}}</ref> He also lectures for [[Project Genesis (organization)|Project Genesis]] and is one of the leading voices in American Orthodox Jewish outreach.<ref name="auto"/>


He is known for his sense of humor, evidenced by some of the lectures he delivers, with titles including "Guns and Moses: A Jewish Perspective on [[Politics]]," "The [[Rooster]], the [[Tree]] and the [[SUV]]," "[[bikkurim|First Fruits]], [[Cheeseburger]]s and [[Lord of the Flies]]" and "[[Shabbos]]: Who Invented the Weekend Anyway?"<ref>[http://www.ajop.org/cs_store-tapes.php?pageNum_Recordset1=1&totalRows_Recordset1=503 ajop.org]</ref>
He is known for his sense of humor, evidenced by some of the lectures he delivers, with titles including "Guns and Moses: A Jewish Perspective on [[Politics]]," "The [[Rooster]], the [[Tree]] and the [[SUV]]," "[[First Fruits#Hebrew perspective|First Fruits]], [[Cheeseburger]]s and [[Lord of the Flies]]" and "[[Shabbos]]: Who Invented the Weekend Anyway?"<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.ajop.org/cs_store-tapes.php?pageNum_Recordset1=1&totalRows_Recordset1=503 |title=ajop.org |access-date=2008-06-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051231080118/http://www.ajop.org/cs_store-tapes.php?pageNum_Recordset1=1&totalRows_Recordset1=503 |archive-date=2005-12-31 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


====Other endeavors====
====Other endeavors====
Becher is the author of books, including ''Avodat Ahavah'' (''Labor of Love'', available only in Hebrew) covering the Jewish laws related to ''[[kiruv]]''. He co-authored ''After the Return: A Guide for the Newly Observant'' with Moshe Newman and wrote ''Gateway to Judaism: The What, How and Why of Jewish Life''. Becher has contributed to the development of computer software programs related to Israeli [[geography]].
Becher is the author of books, including ''Avodat Ahavah'' (''Labor of Love'', available only in Hebrew) covering the Jewish laws related to ''[[kiruv]]''. He co-authored ''After the Return: A Guide for the Newly Observant'' with Moshe Newman and wrote ''Gateway to Judaism: The What, How and Why of Jewish Life''. Becher has contributed to the development of computer software programs related to Israeli [[geography]].


Becher has a radio show on [[Orthodox Union|OU]]-Radio, which operates in a question and answer format. Becher is the host of a [[cable television]] show that airs on [[Shalom TV]], carried on [[Time Warner Cable]]'s Channel 1 On Demand<ref>[http://www.texasjewishpost.com/default.asp?sourceid=&smenu=1&twindow=&mad=&sdetail=2877&wpage=1&skeyword=&sidate=&ccat=&ccatm=&restate=&restatus=&reoption=&retype=&repmin=&repmax=&rebed=&rebath=&subname=&pform=&sc=1128&hn=texasjewishpost&he=.com texasjewishpost.com]</ref> entitled "Dimensions of the Daf," a reference to the [[Talmud]], a page of which is referred to as a ''daf''. Becher has given lectures for organizations that include the [[UJA]] and the [[Zionist Organization of America]].<ref name="jewishworldreview.com"/>
Becher has a radio show on [[Orthodox Union|OU]]-Radio, which operates in a question and answer format. Becher is the host of a [[cable television]] show that airs on [[Jewish Broadcasting Service|Shalom TV]], carried on [[Time Warner Cable]]'s Channel 1 On Demand<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.texasjewishpost.com/default.asp?sourceid=&smenu=1&twindow=&mad=&sdetail=2877&wpage=1&skeyword=&sidate=&ccat=&ccatm=&restate=&restatus=&reoption=&retype=&repmin=&repmax=&rebed=&rebath=&subname=&pform=&sc=1128&hn=texasjewishpost&he=.com |title=texasjewishpost.com |access-date=2008-06-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080625035103/http://www.texasjewishpost.com/default.asp?sourceid=&smenu=1&twindow=&mad=&sdetail=2877&wpage=1&skeyword=&sidate=&ccat=&ccatm=&restate=&restatus=&reoption=&retype=&repmin=&repmax=&rebed=&rebath=&subname=&pform=&sc=1128&hn=texasjewishpost&he=.com |archive-date=2008-06-25 |url-status=dead }}</ref> entitled "Dimensions of the Daf," a reference to the [[Talmud]], a page of which is referred to as a ''daf''. Becher has given lectures for organizations that include the [[UJA]] and the [[Zionist Organization of America]].<ref name="jewishworldreview.com"/>


Becher has studied [[comparative religion]], [[archeology]] and history and is on the speakers list of the [[Diplomatic missions of Israel#North America|Israeli Consulate in New York]].
Becher has studied [[comparative religion]], [[archeology]] and history and is on the speakers list of the [[Diplomatic missions of Israel#North America|Israeli Consulate in New York]].
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[[File:Jonathan Rietti PHOTO2.jpg|thumb|Rabbi Jonathan Rietti]]
[[File:Jonathan Rietti PHOTO2.jpg|thumb|Rabbi Jonathan Rietti]]


Rabbi Jonathan Rietti is an English-born Rabbi, educator, and prominent speaker.
Rabbi Jonathan Rietti is an English-born [[Orthodox Judaism|Orthodox]] [[rabbi]], educator<ref name="jprisms.com"/><ref>[http://www.bukharianjews.com/index.php?name=PNphpBB2&file=viewtopic&p=37004&sid=e03b9747236e4f0a1c8a1b45572e21d9&POSTNUKESID=104ac1f8895a1618a64682c079b96512 www.bukharianjews.com]</ref> and prominent speaker.<ref>[http://www.bikkurim.org/v3/bikkurimbriefingzoom.php?nbid=3 bikkurim.org]</ref>


====Biography====
====Biography====
Rietti was born in [[London]], the son of British actor and director [[Robert Rietti]].
Rietti was born in [[England]], the son of Italian actor and director, [[Robert Rietti]].<ref>Rietti, Rabbi Jonathan. [http://www.torahmedia.com/flexcart/searchResults.php?sid=&cid=&evid=uusxa86twb&directlink=26981 "The Expulsion From Paradise and the Long Journey Back: Where Do I Fit in The Scheme of Creation?"] (audio)</ref> He has twin sisters<ref>Rietti, Rabbi Jonathan. [http://www.jewishinspiration.com/tape.php?tape_id=80 "Countdown to Rosh Hashana: My New Year’s Resolution To Be a Better Spouse, Parent and Career Person"] (audio)</ref> and a brother.<ref>Rietti, Rabbi Jonathan. ''In Search of Everlasting Love'' (audio)</ref> He draws upon his familiarity with the film and advertising industries to entertain his audiences and criticize social flaws.<ref>[http://www.learnoutloud.com/Free-Audio-Video/Religion-and-Spirituality/Judaism/Jewish-Inspiration-with-Rabbi-Jonathan-Rietti/18153 learnoutloud.com]</ref>


A descendant of the Sephardic leader the [[Ben Ish Chai]], Rabbi Rietti studied at Dvar Yerushalaim under Rabbi Baruch Horovitz and then went on to receiving his rabbinical ordination from [[Gateshead Talmudical College]]<ref>{{cite web
Rietti received his ordination from the [[Gateshead Talmudical College]], and was then involved in establishing a growing [[kollel]] in [[Gibraltar]].<ref>[http://www.jewishinspiration.com/about_rabbi_rietti.php jewishinspiration.com]</ref> He served as a senior lecturer for 11 years at the Jewish Renaissance Center.<ref>[http://www.jewishrenaissance.org/ jewishrenaissance.org]</ref><ref>[http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=DM&p_theme=dm&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0ED81EBB56199F41&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM newsbank.com]</ref>
|quote=Rabbi Jonathan Rietti - a descendant of the Sephardic leader the Ben Ish Chai - received his rabbinical ordination from Gateshead Yeshiva.
|title=Rabbi Jonathan Rietti
|website=Jroot Radio
|url=https://jrootradio.com/profiles/rabbi-jonathan-rietti
|access-date=2018-08-27
|archive-date=2018-08-28
|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180828134311/https://jrootradio.com/profiles/rabbi-jonathan-rietti/
|url-status=dead
}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.adamsstreet.org/welcome-page/site-admin/manage-shul-news/219-volunteer-opportunities-and-thanks/2676-rabbi-jonathan-rietti|title=Rabbi Jonathan Rietti|access-date=2018-08-27|archive-date=2018-08-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180828035800/http://www.adamsstreet.org/welcome-page/site-admin/manage-shul-news/219-volunteer-opportunities-and-thanks/2676-rabbi-jonathan-rietti|url-status=dead}}</ref> and was then involved in establishing a growing [[kollel]] in [[Gibraltar]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.breakthroughchinuch.com/|title=Rabbi Jonathan Rietti &#124; New York City &#124; Breakthrough Chinuch|website=breakthroughchunich}}</ref>


⚫
Rietti is a senior lecturer for Gateways.<ref name="asktherabbi.org"/> He lectures on Jewish life and identity, lecturing throughout the United States. He possesses a [[Master of Science|Master's degree]] in education<ref name="ReferenceA">Jewish Inspiration, Inc. - reverse side of audio albums</ref> and has been an educational consultant since 1986, offering guidance to parents of gifted and [[Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder|ADD]] children.
He is a lecturer on personal growth and Jewish identity, having been invited to speak throughout the United States.<ref name="newsbank.com"/><ref>[http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=AT&p_theme=at&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0FDA57E944FA55D7&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM newsbank.com]</ref><ref>[http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=BURB&p_multi=LBCB&p_theme=burb&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=116EB494DAF1D7A8&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM newsbank.com]</ref>


Rietti is the author of a book entitled ''The Art of Healthy Living'', based on [[Maimonides]]' teachings of healthy eating.<ref>[http://www.thesoydailyclub.com/DisplayArchive.cfm?ArchiveID=2377 thesoydailyclub.com]</ref> In mid-2008, Rietti was [[keynote speaker]] for a program called "Caring For Loved Ones While Caring For Ourselves", where he addressed the issues relating to Maimonidies' guide for healthy living that form the basis for his book.<ref>[http://www.5tjt.com/news/read.asp?Id=2605 5tjt.com]</ref>
Rietti is the author of a book entitled ''The Art of Healthy Living'', based on [[Maimonides]]' teachings of healthy diet.


⚫
He runs educational seminars and lectures,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://torahmedia.com/search/results.php|title=Search Results - TorahMedia.com|website=torahmedia.com}}</ref> focusing on inner growth, relationships, positive parenting, health, and support for the authenticity of [[Judaism]]. He has recorded over 200 lectures.<ref name="linkla.org">{{Cite web |url=http://www.linkla.org/update.php3 |title=linkla.org |access-date=2008-06-20 |archive-date=2008-12-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081203140649/http://linkla.org/update.php3 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
He lives with his wife, Devorah, and their children in [[Monsey, New York]].

====Jewish education====
⚫
Rietti possesses a [[Master of Science|Master's degree]] in education<ref name="ReferenceA">Jewish Inspiration, Inc. - reverse side of audio albums</ref> and has been an educational consultant since 1986, offering guidance to parents of gifted and [[Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder|ADD]] children.

====Gateways====
Rietti is a senior lecturer for Gateways,<ref name="asktherabbi.org"/> and lectures across the [[United States]].<ref>[http://www.jle.org.uk/showperson.php?id=216 jle.org.uk]</ref>

⚫
He runs educational seminars and lectures,<ref>[http://www.torahmedia.com/search/results.php torahmedia.com]</ref> focusing on inner growth, relationships, positive parenting, health and support for the authenticity of [[Judaism]]. He has recorded over 200 lectures<ref name="linkla.org">[http://www.linkla.org/update.php3 linkla.org]</ref> and is a speaker on love, marriage and the Jewish approach to interpersonal relationships.<ref name="jprisms.com"/>

Rietti is on the response team of ''Ask the Rabbi'', a website dedicated to answering questions about [[Judaism]], usually within 24 hours.<ref>[http://www.asktherabbi.org/index.asp asktherabbi.org]</ref> He has appeared as a guest speaker on the ''Gavriel Sanders Show'', addressing the Jewish perspective on love, happiness and anger management.<ref>[http://www.gavrielsanders.com/LatestInternetRadioPrograms.htm gavrielsanders.com]</ref>

Rietti is involved with outreach organizations and educational institutions, including [[Ohr Somayach, Jerusalem|Ohr Somayach]]{{disambiguation needed|date=August 2013}} and The Jewish Awareness Movement.<ref>[http://www.jamoncampus.com/retsch.htm jamoncampus.org]</ref>
*[http://torahdownloads.com/s-128-rabbi-jonathan-rietti.html Lectures by Rabbi Jonathan Rietti]


==See also==
==See also==
Line 106: Line 101:
*Gateways
*Gateways
**[http://www.gatewaysonline.com Gateways website]
**[http://www.gatewaysonline.com Gateways website]
**[http://www.thebrownstone.info The Brownstone]
**[http://www.thebrownstone.info The Brownstone] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080706133342/http://www.thebrownstone.info/ |date=2008-07-06 }}
**[http://www.rajeusa.com RAJE]
**[http://www.rajeusa.com RAJE]
*[http://www.klkntv.com/Global/story.asp?S=11560500 "Gateways' Russian American Jewish Experience (RAJE) Newly Top-Rated Jewish Nonprofit on GuideStar"], ''ABC'', Lincoln, NE November 23, 2009.
*[http://www.klkntv.com/Global/story.asp?S=11560500 "Gateways' Russian American Jewish Experience (RAJE) Newly Top-Rated Jewish Nonprofit on GuideStar"]{{Dead link|date=December 2019 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}, ''ABC'', Lincoln, NE November 23, 2009.


{{DEFAULTSORT:Gateways (Organization)}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Gateways (Organization)}}

Latest revision as of 00:31, 22 May 2024

Gateways is an international organization whose self-declared mission is it to "raise Jewish consciousness."[1]

Origins

[edit]

Gateways was founded in 1998 by Rabbi Mordechai Suchard with the stated goal of "providing opportunities for Jews to unlock the treasure of their heritage through dynamic educational and social programs."[2] The organization is based in Monsey, New York, United States. It began as an American offshoot of Arachim (meaning "values"), an Israeli Judaism outreach organization founded in 1979.[3] Funding for Gateways is entirely from individual donors.

Programs

[edit]

The programs educate in Jewish values and traditions."[4] Gateways often joins with other organizations to co-sponsor events.

Programs include:

  • Family education.
  • Learning programs for collegiates and young professionals.
  • Services focused on the Russian American Jewish community.
  • Singles networking and matchmaking.
  • Learning opportunities via the internet, including an "Ask the rabbi" portal.[5][6]
  • Life skills and professional development seminars.
  • Jewish holiday programs.

In addition to the New York metropolitan area, the organization hosts events throughout the United States.[7][8][9][10]

Gateways personalities

[edit]

Gateways is staffed by a team of 45 working in seven departments.[11]

Rabbi Mordechai Suchard

[edit]
Rabbi Mordechai Suchard, left, with a guest at the Gateways Shavuot Retreat in 2008

Rabbi Mordechai Suchard is the founder[12] and executive director of Gateways.[13] He is a Jewish educator, speaker and author.[14]

Biography

[edit]

Suchard was born in South Africa.[15] His father is a dayan (ecclesiastical "judge") on the Johannesburg Beth Din. He studied at the Telshe yeshiva, in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended Ponevezh in Bnei Brak, Israel, and received his rabbinic ordination from Rabbi Itzhak Kolitz, the Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem and Dean of the Jerusalem Beth Din.

Suchard founded Gateways to promote the continuity of Judaism. He has established and run a network of outreach organizations targeting college students, young professionals, singles and Russian immigrants in the United States. He is active in Jewish education on the Internet.[16] Suchard has served on the rabbinical board of "Ask The Rabbi"[6] answering questions about Jewish law, philosophy and ethics.[17]

He speaks across America on Jewish issues such as prophecy and seeing God in one's life.[8][14][18]

Suchard was on the American delegation accompanying US President George Bush when he visited Israel in May 2008 to mark the country's sixtieth birthday celebrations.[19][20]

Political views

[edit]

Rabbi Suchard is a supporter of Senator Joe Lieberman, contributing to his political campaign from 2002 to 2006.[21]

Rabbi Mordechai Becher

[edit]
Rabbi Mordechai Becher before a presentation, February 2009

Rabbi Mordechai Becher is an author and lecturer on topics of Jewish philosophy and ritual law and practice.

Biography

[edit]

Born in Australia, Becher attended the Bialik College in Melbourne for elementary school. He received his rabbinic ordination from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and the Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem. Shortly thereafter, he started lecturing at Neve Yerushalayim, Darchei Binah[22] and Ohr Somayach College, remaining at the latter for 15 years. He also served as a senior lecturer at Ohr Somayach Thornhill for four years in Toronto, Ontario, from 1992 to 1996.[23]

Becher first moved to Israel in 1978, and served in the armoured infantry in the Israel Defense Forces,.[24] He was an army chaplain,[25] teaching in training programs for rabbis and educators. His wife, Chavy, is from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1985 and lived for a time in Kiryat Moshe, Israel.[26] He has co-authored two books on contemporary issues in Jewish law and has responded to legal, ethical and philosophical questions on the Ohr Somayach "Ask the Rabbi" website.

Becher considers Rabbi Moshe Shapiro to be his rebbe, or primary mentor in areas of Torah and Judaism.[27]

Becher lives with his wife and their six children in Passaic Park.[23]

Gateways

[edit]

Becher is a Senior Lecturer for Gateways.[28] He also lectures for Project Genesis and is one of the leading voices in American Orthodox Jewish outreach.[5]

He is known for his sense of humor, evidenced by some of the lectures he delivers, with titles including "Guns and Moses: A Jewish Perspective on Politics," "The Rooster, the Tree and the SUV," "First Fruits, Cheeseburgers and Lord of the Flies" and "Shabbos: Who Invented the Weekend Anyway?"[29]

Other endeavors

[edit]

Becher is the author of books, including Avodat Ahavah (Labor of Love, available only in Hebrew) covering the Jewish laws related to kiruv. He co-authored After the Return: A Guide for the Newly Observant with Moshe Newman and wrote Gateway to Judaism: The What, How and Why of Jewish Life. Becher has contributed to the development of computer software programs related to Israeli geography.

Becher has a radio show on OU-Radio, which operates in a question and answer format. Becher is the host of a cable television show that airs on Shalom TV, carried on Time Warner Cable's Channel 1 On Demand[30] entitled "Dimensions of the Daf," a reference to the Talmud, a page of which is referred to as a daf. Becher has given lectures for organizations that include the UJA and the Zionist Organization of America.[24]

Becher has studied comparative religion, archeology and history and is on the speakers list of the Israeli Consulate in New York.

Rabbi Jonathan Rietti

[edit]
Rabbi Jonathan Rietti

Rabbi Jonathan Rietti is an English-born Rabbi, educator, and prominent speaker.

Biography

[edit]

Rietti was born in London, the son of British actor and director Robert Rietti.

A descendant of the Sephardic leader the Ben Ish Chai, Rabbi Rietti studied at Dvar Yerushalaim under Rabbi Baruch Horovitz and then went on to receiving his rabbinical ordination from Gateshead Talmudical College[31][32] and was then involved in establishing a growing kollel in Gibraltar.[33]

Rietti is a senior lecturer for Gateways.[17] He lectures on Jewish life and identity, lecturing throughout the United States. He possesses a Master's degree in education[34] and has been an educational consultant since 1986, offering guidance to parents of gifted and ADD children.

Rietti is the author of a book entitled The Art of Healthy Living, based on Maimonides' teachings of healthy diet.

He runs educational seminars and lectures,[35] focusing on inner growth, relationships, positive parenting, health, and support for the authenticity of Judaism. He has recorded over 200 lectures.[36]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Gateways Shavuot Retreat pamphlet, page 1.
  2. ^ Gateways Shavuot Retreat pamphlet, inside of front cover.
  3. ^ "neveh.org". Archived from the original on 2008-05-09. Retrieved 2008-06-15.
  4. ^ Gateways booklet, page 1.
  5. ^ a b Day, Video of the. "Yishai Fleisher Interview with Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz".
  6. ^ a b "Ask The Rabbi - Get Your Jewish Questions Answered". AskTheRabbi.org.
  7. ^ "thejewishweek.com".[permanent dead link]
  8. ^ a b "NewsBank for PBDN". nl.newsbank.com.
  9. ^ "thejewishexperience.com - thejewishexperience Resources and Information". www.thejewishexperience.com.
  10. ^ "jewishaz.com". Archived from the original on 2006-10-30. Retrieved 2008-06-15.
  11. ^ "kiruv.com". Archived from the original on 2008-06-17. Retrieved 2008-06-12.
  12. ^ "thejewishweek.com".[permanent dead link]
  13. ^ "gatewaysonline.com". Archived from the original on 2008-06-16. Retrieved 2008-06-20.
  14. ^ a b "Rabbi Mordechai Suchard - TorahMedia.com". torahmedia.com.
  15. ^ "thejewishweek.com".[permanent dead link]
  16. ^ "jprisms.com". Archived from the original on 2008-06-07. Retrieved 2008-06-20.
  17. ^ a b "asktherabbi.org". Archived from the original on 2008-07-04. Retrieved 2008-06-20.
  18. ^ "newsbank.com". Archived from the original on 2006-10-30. Retrieved 2008-06-15.
  19. ^ "Bush Visit May Boost Olmert". The New York Sun.
  20. ^ "Statement by the Press Secretary". georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov.
  21. ^ "Mordechai Suchard - $500 in Political Contributions for 2006". www.campaignmoney.com.
  22. ^ "yiws.org". Archived from the original on 2011-10-04. Retrieved 2008-06-20.
  23. ^ a b "torahinmotion.org". Archived from the original on 2008-07-23. Retrieved 2008-06-20.
  24. ^ a b "Rabbi Mordechai Becher: Wandering in Wonder". jewishworldreview.com.
  25. ^ "canfeinesharim.org". Archived from the original on 2009-08-13. Retrieved 2008-06-20.
  26. ^ Rabbi Becher's presentation entitled Archeology/History of Israel (audio)</]
  27. ^ "Rabbi Mordechai Becher - free Jewish downloads mp3s". www.simpletoremember.com.
  28. ^ "gatewaysonline.com". Archived from the original on 2008-05-17. Retrieved 2008-06-20.
  29. ^ "ajop.org". Archived from the original on 2005-12-31. Retrieved 2008-06-20.
  30. ^ "texasjewishpost.com". Archived from the original on 2008-06-25. Retrieved 2008-06-20.
  31. ^ "Rabbi Jonathan Rietti". Jroot Radio. Archived from the original on 2018-08-28. Retrieved 2018-08-27. Rabbi Jonathan Rietti - a descendant of the Sephardic leader the Ben Ish Chai - received his rabbinical ordination from Gateshead Yeshiva.
  32. ^ "Rabbi Jonathan Rietti". Archived from the original on 2018-08-28. Retrieved 2018-08-27.
  33. ^ "Rabbi Jonathan Rietti | New York City | Breakthrough Chinuch". breakthroughchunich.
  34. ^ Jewish Inspiration, Inc. - reverse side of audio albums
  35. ^ "Search Results - TorahMedia.com". torahmedia.com.
  36. ^ "linkla.org". Archived from the original on 2008-12-03. Retrieved 2008-06-20.
[edit]
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