During my studies in Israel, I have been met with a sense of familiarity every time a religious holiday occurs. Surprisingly in Latin America, a region culturally influenced to a great extent by Catholic Christianity, the holidays coincide with various Jewish festivities such as Easter, Chanukkah, and Shavuot, and although in their conception they have different philosophies, celebrations, and customs, there is still a vestige of connection that can be felt between the two.
I have been intrigued by my case within my family, which is mostly Christian. Therefore there is a notable difference present between my family since my aunt is Jewish. Nevertheless, the time I have spent in Israel has made me encounter both religions since I grew up in a Latin country with Catholic customs, and at the same time, I spent time with my aunt who keeps and celebrates Jewish customs and with whom I have met several times shared traditions and celebrations in Israel.
Everyone may think that my Christian family would have religious disagreements, but, there is mutual understanding much greater comparing a secular person with a religious person. Hence, to a certain extent in terms of faith both religions establish similar starting points, of course with different outcomes, however, such disagreements do not exceed the major and fundamental thoughts in common. For example, respect for Israel as a holy land and respect for the Jews as a nation belonging to the land of Israel. This is a concept deeply rooted in the Latin American Catholic faith as well as the monotheistic conception of God.
Furthermore, I think that the most important thing that exists within a family like this is tolerance and dialogue because, at the same time that in Latin America there is respect for Israel, there is also confusion regarding Judaism as a distant religion. Perhaps this thought is influenced by Christianity itself, but this is nothing more than a perception far from reality, the dialogue and interactions between the two are spiritually enriching and share a common bond, respect.
I am sure that it is easier for my Christian relatives to understand that there are religious customs that require special attention and respect. And not only my family, but the Latin American Community is also increasingly open to a cultural and religious exchange of tolerance and understanding when several years ago such an inconceivable thought was seen within a very closed Catholic community.
Overall, we are not in a time of isolation anymore, the encounter with other cultures is nothing more than a reinforcement of our own identity and above all regarding both religions a foundation on the morality that they keep and seek to preserve over time, whether with a Christian family, a Jewish family or half and half.
