Assimilation

The Kirshner community’s ability to remain Orthodox is the result of its refusal to assimilate. Assimilation requires being open to a new city's culture and blending in with residents. The Kirshner community is not open to Kaaterskill Falls' everyday way of life. Therefore, they refrain from joining in community activities and isolate themselves. A few, however, are not comfortable with being isolated from the community around them. They try to assimilate as best they can.

There are valid reasons for the Orthodox Jews to resist assimilation. The conservative nature of the Kirshner community has its roots in the horrors of the Holocaust. To preserve the faith and the people, the Kirshner community turn inward, finding safety, stability, and certainty among each another in light of their faith. For the Kirshner community, insulation meant -and still means- survival. When Rav Elijah dies, the future of the...