Last week I joined hundreds of others at the UMJC’s 2013 International Conference. The theme of this year’s conference was Avodah: Service of Our Hearts and Hands. My friend, Rabbi Derek Leman, already wrote a really great review of the conference on his blog, which I encourage you to check out.
So instead of repeating what R’ Derek already more eloquently said, I would like to point out two additional things I thought really stood out for me this year. The first was an afternoon with visiting guest scholar, Dr. David Moffitt (a Senior Lecturer at the University of St. Andrews), who spoke on the themes of resurrection and the authority of the Torah in the Book of Hebrews.
Professor David Moffitt
In the first session Dr. Moffitt explained how Yeshua’s resurrection actually plays a central role in the book and explored the way Hebrews applies the inner logic and ritual practices of biblical sacrifices to the life and work of Yeshua.
Often the Book of Hebrews is thought to represent an early and sharp break between “Judaism” and what would become “Christianity.” However, in the second session, Professor Moffitt walked us through a careful reading of the epistle and demonstrated that the text does not dismiss nor replace the Torah, but rather presents the discussion in terms of the ongoing validity of the Torah’s authority in the last days.
Moffitt’s work on Hebrews has been described within scholarly circles as “revolutionary” for a reason. I greatly appreciated his presentation and it gave me plenty to chew on as I am currently teaching the Book of Hebrews myself, at the moment.
Shabbat Morning Torah Service
The second thing that impressed me was the growing caliber of proficiency within the movement, as well as the caliber of scholarship among many of our leaders. This proficiency was demonstrated best during the Shabbat morning Torah service, with an H.U.C.-ordained cantor (who now believes in Yeshua) leading the service, Torah and Haftarah readings, and a soulful blend of liturgy and music.
And of course – as always – the absolute best part of the conference was the relationship element. It is always wonderful getting to reconnect with friends you only see a couple times a year, connecting with colleagues, and making many new friends.
Overall, a great conference, and I look forward to next year!
Update, 8/1/13: Since more than a few people have been interested: Professor Moffitt’s lectures were based on his published doctoral dissertation, “Atonement and the Logic of the Resurrection in Hebrews (NovTSup 141; Leiden: Brill, 2011).” Here are a couple linnks which expand a little more on the subject matter:
I don’t suppose there’s anyway to get the content of Dr. Moffitt’s presentation on Hebrews in print or audio. It would be helpful to those of us who weren’t able to attend.
Just asking. Thanks.
James,
Actually, all the sessions are supposed to be available soon to download – for FREE! I’ll post the link when it becomes available.
Thanks, Reb Josh. 🙂