Over the past months, we've noticed something surprising. People who haven't felt a deep connection with God (or the general concept of "god"), are finding themselves drawn back to the idea. And not just for tradition's sake, but because of something deeper: a growing sense of connection, a curiosity about God, and a desire to be with other Jews.

In a recent conversation I had with Rabbi Mara Young, we talked about this very moment. What's drawing people back? What might this spiritual return actually look like for you?

Rabbi Mara Young serves as rabbi at Woodlands Community Temple in Greenburgh, New York. She is known for helping the community blend ancient Jewish wisdom with modern sensibilities, and she recently presented a workshop for Melton+ called "God Shopping."

It's not just something we're sensing. A 2024 study from the Jewish Federations of North America found that nearly 1 in 3 American Jews say they're more engaged in Jewish life than before October 7, 2023.

It's Okay to Turn to God When Things Get Hard

Many think that a relationship with God needs to be lifelong and uninterrupted. Anything less might feel inauthentic. But that's not how Judaism sees it.

Rabbi Young said it best: 

"Sometimes we turn to these things because the going gets tough—and that's okay. It doesn't make it any less authentic."

Rabbi Mara Young

You don't have to have a perfect, constant relationship with God to turn toward something sacred. In fact, that instinct to seek comfort, strength, or meaning when life feels fragile is deeply Jewish.

The very name Yisrael comes from a moment of struggle—Jacob wrestling with an angel through the night, refusing to let go until he received a blessing. That story is not only about Jacob; it is about us. We, too, wrestle. We, too, reach out when we are weary. And that reaching is part of what it means to be Jewish. 

Defining Your Own Path

One of the most powerful takeaways from Rabbi Young's perspective is the idea that we have permission to define our relationship with God in the way that brings the most strength and comfort to us.

That might mean prayer. Or it might mean nature. It might be felt most deeply in moments of grief, gratitude, or awe. Judaism allows space for all of this, and doesn't demand that you believe in one specific way.

If you've ever thought, "I don't believe in God the way I think I'm supposed to," know that you're in good company. Pew Research backs this up: only about a quarter of U.S. Jews say they believe in God the way the Bible describes, but more than half believe in something. A force, a presence, a higher connection.

That doesn't make the connection any less real. In fact, it may make it more personal. 

Why Some of Us Are Feeling More Connected Than Ever

Since the attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, something unexpected has been happening: a surge in Jewish spiritual and communal engagement. The Jewish Federations survey found that 31% of American Jews are more engaged in Jewish life post-October 7, and a Wall Street Journal article reported that 43% feel more connected to their faith.

Rabbi Young described it as a "spiritual connectivity" that's surprising people, even those who didn't think they had a connection to God or Jewish peoplehood. 

"Some people are very surprised by that. They go, 'I didn't know I had that connection. I didn't know it was so strong in me.'"

Rabbi Mara Young

It's more than solidarity. It's spiritual. That's what we mean when we talk about Klal Yisrael, that deep-down feeling that we're part of something bigger than ourselves, connected to other Jews around the world.

Of course, not everyone feels this way. For some, moments of crisis deepen disconnection rather than resolve it. That, too, is a valid part of the spiritual journey. 

You Feel the Pull. Now What?

If you're feeling drawn toward Jewish community or spiritual connection, the next steps can feel overwhelming. Maybe you're not sure where to go, who to talk to, or how to get started. You might worry about fitting in, being judged, or not knowing enough.

Here's what we want you to know: You don't have to have it all figured out.

Here are a few approachable ways to begin: 

• Join a class. Melton offers warm, welcoming courses designed for adult learners—no prior Jewish education needed. You can join online or in person. Topics range from Jewish spirituality to ethics to history.
• Try a Shabbat ritual at home. Light two candles on Friday evening, just before sunset. This is a traditional way to mark the beginning of Shabbat. You can say the blessing if you know it, or simply take a breath and reflect on something you're grateful for.
• Explore Modeh Ani. This short morning prayer expresses gratitude for waking up to a new day. It's often the first spiritual step people take.
• Attend a local Jewish event. Many synagogues and JCCs offer open events—lectures, holiday meals, concerts—no membership required.
• Reach out to a rabbi or Jewish educator. Many of us are happy to simply talk with you. No expectations. Just a conversation.
• Begin a private practice. Journal. Pray. Meditate. Ask, "What does Judaism have to teach me right now?"

There's Room for Your Doubts, Too

For some, reconnecting with God may feel uncomfortable, especially if you've been away for a while or never quite made the connection in the first place.

But here's something deeply Jewish: you don't need certainty to start seeking. In fact, you can seek because you're uncertain.

Jewish tradition is built on questions. Our sacred texts are filled with debate, disagreement, and complexity. Doubt isn't a disqualifier, it's part of the journey.

As Rabbi Young noted, some people are reconnecting to Judaism not because they feel sure of God, but because they're surprised by the strength of their own yearning.

That surprise? It's an invitation. 

Resources for the Spiritually Curious

If this moment is stirring something in you, we want to help you keep going. Here are a few trustworthy places to explore:

• Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning – We offer pluralistic courses for adults around the world. You can explore Jewish ideas, values, and spirituality at your own pace, alongside a supportive cohort. Explore courses →
• Institute for Jewish Spirituality (IJS) – Provides guided practices like Jewish meditation, mindful prayer, and spiritual learning rooted in tradition and modernity. Visit IJS →
• Local Jewish Federations or Synagogues – Often host introductory programs and holiday experiences, including those for people reconnecting to Judaism. Use JFNA or JConnect to find events near you.

As Rabbi Young reminded us, this connection to Jews around the world, to our shared past, to something divine isn't just emotional. It's spiritual. It's real. 

"To not only recognize the connection of the Jewish people, but to also understand that it taps back into the oneness of the divine…"

Rabbi Mara Young