Furious relative will not attend bar mitzvah
Dear Amy: My grand-nephew is being bar mitzvahed next month.
His father, who runs youth programs for the local Jewish Community Center and has never before displayed ultra-orthodox tendencies, has decided to hold the ceremonies in a Chabad synagogue, in which men and women are not allowed to sit together.
I refuse to attend this ceremony, which I consider medieval and sexist in nature. My wife -- it's her side of the family -- knows how I feel, and is OK with my choice, but will attend the ceremony, nevertheless.
Quite honestly, I am really disappointed in her decision.
There are other, less rigid synagogues in the area, and I would gladly attend services at them, but this is what my nephew has chosen.
I'd like to tell the family how I feel, and encourage them to boycott the ceremony, as well.
I know this is drastic, and practically uncalled for, but I truly feel that attending means approval of these reactionary practices.
Should I encourage my wife not to attend? Should I notify the rest of the family?
-- Disgusted Husband
Dear Disgusted: You are completely within your rights to stay home from a religious ceremony you consider "medieval and sexist in nature."
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