In theory

Recently, the Crescenta Valley Sun ran a series on drinking and drug use among teenagers in the Crescenta Valley. And a June 27 article reported that four individuals were arrested on suspicion of selling 1,000 balloons of heroin to teenage buyers throughout La Crescenta.

What is your congregation doing or what would you like to see you congregation do to encourage young people to stay away from drugs and alcohol?

In Judaism, there is a concept that every human being is created in the image of God, b’tzelem elohim, and therefore treating ourselves, and others, with care and concern is of paramount importance to leading an ethical and moral life.

I teach kids that their bodies are small sanctuaries, each housing the holy precious gift of a soul — tarnishing that gift by choice is something we should try and avoid. I have tried to talk to kids honestly about their experiences, not trying to pretend that drugs and alcohol don’t exist in their world; rather, I listen and validate, even as I educate and instruct in healthy living.

If Judaism does not speak to Jewish teens in a voice they can relate to, it will be lost. I use biblical texts to stimulate conversation about peer pressure, addiction and good decision-making. Some of my most successful programs have been bringing in recovering addicts — young people in their 20s and 30s — who know about peer pressure and addiction firsthand and help our teens understand how one bad choice can lead to a great deal of pain and suffering.

RABBI JOSHUA GRATER is spiritual leader of Pasdena Jewish Temple & Center. Reach him at (626) 798-1161.