The local Jewish community provides a unique opportunity for individuals to find friendship, deepen their connection to their faith, and learn about shared history. For some, it has also served as a platform for finding love. In celebration of Tu B’Av, a holiday of love on the Jewish calendar, let’s delve into heartwarming local love stories that have blossomed within the Jewish community.
One such tale begins with Cindy Hallberlin, a divorced attorney and mother, who would eagerly scour the matchmaking advertisements in the Washington Jewish Week every Thursday night in search of her perfect match. Frustrated by her lack of success in meeting the right person through traditional means, she decided to take matters into her own hands and placed her own ad in the newspaper. Little did she know, Joel Kanter, a divorced man looking for an intelligent and unconventional Jewish woman, had also submitted an ad in the same issue. Their paths crossed when Joel came across Cindy’s ad, and after a series of phone calls and a first date at Mark’s Kitchen in downtown Takoma Park, the sparks began to fly. Despite the challenges of balancing work, children, and distance, the two forged a lasting relationship and eventually tied the knot in 1999. Today, they look back on 25 years of marriage with fondness and gratitude for the serendipitous encounter that brought them together.
Moving on to a more modern love story, Ben and Jen Litwin’s romance blossomed during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially acquaintances who met through a mutual friend at a Washington Hebrew Congregation service, Ben and Jen united during a virtual matchmaking event organized by Moishe House and Camp Nai Nai Nai. Their connection was solidified during an hour-long video call, which sparked hours of engaging conversation and mutual interest. Despite a moment of misunderstanding after their first date, where Ben unintentionally friend-zoned Jen, the two quickly clarified their intentions and embarked on a series of socially distanced dates. Sharing a commitment to their Jewish faith, common interests, and a deep connection, Ben and Jen decided to move in together and later tied the knot in a ceremony that combined Jewish traditions with their shared love for science fiction and musical theater.
Their journey, filled with laughter, shared values, and mutual respect, culminated in a wedding that reflected their unique personalities and deep bond. With Rabbi Aaron Miller of Washington Hebrew Congregation officiating their union, Ben and Jen have embraced a life together grounded in love, faith, and a shared vision for the future.
These heartwarming stories serve as reminders of the power of community, faith, and love in bringing people together. Whether through traditional matchmaking ads or virtual events during a pandemic, the local Jewish community has been a catalyst for meaningful connections and lasting relationships. As we celebrate Tu B’Av, let us take inspiration from these tales of love and cherish the bonds that bring joy and fulfillment to our lives.
