For that matter, what do any of us mean when we use that term, or when we refer to “practicing Jews”? What makes a Jew religious? When I reached high school, my mother decided I would also attend the Baltimore Hebrew College High School: a multi-day afternoon program of Hebrew language and Judaic studies designed for public school students. To me, being “religious” means identifying as part of the Jewish people, feeling a unique connection to God and striving to live in alignment with one’s beliefs. Being a “practicing Jew” means engaging in actions — whether spiritual, ethical or communal — that are rooted in Jewish values.