by: Mayyim Hayyim Staff

It’s not often that young people immerse at Mayyim Hayyim for reasons other than conversion or B’nai Mitzvah.  We are however, thrilled to see a renewed interest in immersion as preparation for Shabbat.  For the past three Fridays (and two Fridays in 2012), groups of teenagers participating in the Genesis program at Brandeis have come to Mayyim Hayyim to learn and immerse. While some used the space for quiet contemplation, others made use of some of our ceremonies like “Joyous Life Transition,” “In Gratitude,” and “Toward Healing.”

  • “This experience was pretty life changing for me.  I got to go in and bond with my [identical twin] brother in what felt to be an extremely spiritual way.  I am always going to remember this experience, and I hope others will too.”
  • “This was definitely an experience that I’m glad I had.  I feel different having done it, almost closer with myself.  Mayyim Hayyim is definitely a welcoming place.”
  • “Before today, I had no idea what a mikveh was.  I am so glad I got the opportunity for an immersion.  Although there wasn’t any kind of spiritual experience for me, the privacy and warmth of the room made me feel something I had never previously felt.  Thank you so much for the opportunity.”
  • “This experience cannot be put into words. Being able to connect the mind body and soul in such a peaceful manner was truly a blessing.  This experience was able to allow me to connect with G-d and I wish I could have stayed longer.  Thanks so much for allowing me to indulge in this.”
  • “Today was my first time being immersed in a mikveh.  I had learned about them in Sunday school but I had never experienced one.  As I was preparing, I felt nervous, trembling at the face of G-d.  When I immersed though, time seemed to stop and I felt closer to G-d that I felt before.  For the three times I was under, all my worries seemed to float away.  I felt natural, pure in G-d’s eyes.”

Genesis connects motivated students from around the globe with professionals from their fields of interest for a month of intensive instruction and experiential learning.  Throughout the program, you will be part of shaping what and how you learn.  Explore new perspectives, develop and strengthen your voice, pursue your interests within a dynamic community, and discover how Judaism informs the way you see and approach every part of your world.