Member Spotlight: United Jewish Community of the Virginia Peninsula

by Sarah Panzer, Rising Tide Intern

The United Jewish Community of the Virginia Peninsula is in the process of establishing a mikveh. Currently, they are in the beginning stages of their mikveh initiative, as they are waiting for cost predictions. Once approved, construction on the mikveh will begin as a project of the Jewish Federation. Meryl Kessler was inspired to begin the project of building a mikveh for the UJCVP in 2016 after an experience immersing at another mikveh in the state. She noticed areas for improvement and was motivated to establish a mikveh that would accommodate all those who sought to use it. Shortly after she began the project, she was connected to the Rising Tide Open Waters Mikveh network. 

Meryl is hopeful that the UJCVP mikveh will serve as a completely inclusive space that benefits the surrounding Jewish community. She envisions it as a place that exists for everyone, regardless of religious denomination and individual interests. Whoever is interested in the mikveh, for whatever reason, should feel included within its walls. She is also hopeful that the mikveh will foster a new interest in mikveh among younger people, and in the process, bring young people back to Judaism. She says that she is hopeful that younger generations can come to the mikveh and see what a wonderful ritual it can be. In her words, it will be a wonderful place to restore souls.  

Meryl says that the Rising Tide Network has provided strong support for the UJCVP mikveh, serving as an inspiration for mikveh and facilitating contact between their mikveh and so many Jewish communities. She also notes that the Rising Tide Network has been responsive to questions, inquiries, and requests, and continues to provide support for their mikveh initiative.  

One thing that the UJCVP would like the Rising Tide Network to know is that this mikveh is being built from a place of passion, by a team of incredibly passionate and caring people. Meryl says that when the community mikveh comes to fruition, it will come from a passion for Judaism and a vision for the future of Judaism. For more information about the UCJVP, visit: https://ujcvp.org/