Rumi Forum will hold its monthly circle on April 24, 2025, to study Abrahamic scriptures on “Hospitality” with Hazzan Asa Fradkin, our study leader from Congregation Beth El.
Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages on a topic from their respective scriptures. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s scriptures and the development of strong bonds across faith communities.
Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction Islamic Scripture: Quran
Christian Scripture: New Testament Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible
This Month`s Study Leader
Hazzan Asa Fradkin has been the Hazzan at Congregation Beth El since 2017. Raised in Baltimore, Hazzan Fradkin spent his younger years on an ashram outside of Philadelphia, where he learned yoga and meditation, practices that he continues to incorporate into and blend with traditional worship. Hazzan Fradkin holds an undergraduate degree in Vocal Studies from the Indiana University School of Music. While at IU, he became involved in Hillel and graduated with a Certificate in Jewish Studies. In 2007, he was ordained by the H.L. Miller Cantorial School at JTS, earning the degrees of Hazzan and Masters in Sacred Music. He also has extensive experience as a song leader and teacher. He previously served as Hazzan at Temple Shalom in Greenwich, CT.
According to Hazzan Fradkin, the most rewarding part of his job is building community and being actively involved in congregational life. He places substantial value on establishing relationships with members of all age groups – with those experiencing joyous life cycle events and with the sick and bereaved. He strives to “rouse the soul,” to make prayer a moving and spiritual experience for all congregants.