By COLlive reporter
Last month, Rabbi Zev Johnson from Chabad at the University of Texas found himself reaching out for help. Five Jewish students he was close to were beginning to explore Christianity, and he wanted to help them stay connected to their roots.
That’s when he discovered “Know What to Answer – When Someone Challenges Your Faith,” a new book from Jews for Judaism. Seeing it as the perfect resource, Rabbi Johnson decided to gift each student a copy.
Jews for Judaism, an organization dedicated to countering missionary efforts and strengthening Jewish identity, was founded in 1984 by Rabbi Bentzion Kravitz with the blessing of the Rebbe.
Rabbi Kravitz’s book wasn’t just another guide; it was a beacon of practical wisdom and inspiration. It addressed difficult topics like missionary coercion, anti-Semitism, and intermarriage through meaningful insights drawn from the weekly Torah portions.
The book was designed to encourage thoughtful exploration of Judaism and foster pride in one’s heritage and includes real stories of individuals Jews for Judaism has helped return to their faith.
Word quickly spread. Students, educators, and Chabad centers across the globe welcomed the book. Chana Weisberg, editor of TheJewishWoman.org, praised it as “a superb tool for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of Judaism and how to address challenges to their beliefs.”
Meanwhile, Rabbi Kravitz himself was busy sharing his message in Israel. From the bustling Jerusalem Yeshurun Central Synagogue, an Emunah Women’s group, Young Israel in Karnei Shomron, and Chabad centers in Rechavia, Baka, and Tzfat, the book became a vital resource in diverse communities.
Back in the U.S., Rabbi Kravitz joined his son, Rabbi Zalman Kravitz, who leads Jews for Judaism in the U.S., at the Kinus for Chabad on Campus in Parsippany, New Jersey. Together, they distributed over 100 free copies to campus Shluchim, hoping to empower them in their outreach and support work.
Rabbi Schneur Z. Oirechman of Chabad of Tallahassee and Florida State University shared his appreciation: “I appreciate your gift of Know What to Answer. This year, two of my students began questioning their faith and exploring Christianity. Let’s connect before the school year to plan programs.”
Plans are underway for a Hebrew edition of the book to support Israeli Shluchim facing a growing wave of missionary activity targeting soldiers, immigrants, and youth on the streets and online.
The book is available on Amazon. For more information or to make use of Jews for Judaism’s resources, visit jewsforjudaism.org
The Kravitz family is awesome – love them and the work they do