Marking Passages

projects

Mezuzah-Inspired Stories

Placing a mezuzah on a doorpost is among the most ancient of Jewish traditions. Each ritual case holds a scroll inscribed with the Shema prayer. Mezuzahs are considered amuletic by many and signal that the structure they adorn holds a Jewish space. They mark departures and homecomings, and serve as touchstones for reflection along personal journeys.

What do mezuzahs evoke for you?

Be a part of Marking Passages: Mezuzah-Inspired Stories!

 

 

Join the Jewish Museum of Maryland on March 19, 2026 for a night of mezuzah-inspired stories in partnership with The Stoop, a live storytelling series and WYPR podcast. Hosted by Stoop Executive Producer and Live Show Producer, Jessica Myles Henken and Stoop Live Show Producer Aaron Henken, the program will feature live tales shared by project participants, an open mic storytelling opportunity, and stories shared in the Museum’s new audio/visual production studio.

 

 

Learn more about the event and register here. 

 

 

Stories might explore…
  • What door have I walked through that changed me?
  • Who or what do I keep close?
  • What symbolizes home for me?
  • What do I carry forward? What do I leave behind?

Your story does not need to be about Judaism, religion, or a literal mezuzah (although it can be!). The mezuzah is simply a spark — an invitation to consider: Funny moments, awkward family stories, complicated inheritances, profound turning points — all welcome. As long as they’re true and they’re about you, we want to hear them.

To celebrate the culmination of this project, JMM will present a live storytelling event in partnership with The Stoop Storytelling

 

 

 

Got a tale to tell at the live storytelling event on March 19, 2026? Here’s how it works:
  • For this special show, we’re seeking individuals to share a 7-minute true, personal story. Submit a three-sentence summary of your story via the submission form.
  • We’ll select seven (7) storytellers to share their stories live. Each participant will receive one-on-one coaching from Stoop Storytelling Series producers to help shape and prepare their story. Stories are shared conversationally, without notes, as if talking to a close friend.
  • If selected, you will share your story live at the JMM storytelling event at the Museum. Stories will be recorded and archived on The Stoop Website, will be held and shared by the Jewish Museum of Maryland, and may also air on The Stoop Podcast and WYPR radio.

Live Storytelling Submission Deadline: February 1, 2026  Extended to March 6, 2026!

 

 

Got a story to share in JMM’s new audiovisual production studio? Here’s how it works:

Visit the production studio and JMM’s studio technician, Eduardo Camacho, can guide you through the process of writing, audio recording, and/or video recording your story in the way that feels most comfortable. Here are the ways you can book time in the studio:

  • Stop by during Open Studio Hours: Mondays – Wednesdays: 1 PM – 3 PM, First + Third Sundays: 1 PM – 3 PM
  • Or make an appointment by emailing studio@jewishmuseumd.org.

With your permission, your story will be held and potentially shared by the Museum.