UUworldweekly@uua.org has a great article by Debra Haffner titled, "How to Raise a Mensch", Life: Cultivating your child's ethical and spiritual growth.  It touched my heart . 

As described in the article, "Mensch" is  a Yiddish word that literally means a human being.  The author lists what parents can do:  Listen to your children, Learn from your children, Establish family rituals, Celebrate traditions in community, Involve your children in community service.

The article is taken from Debra Haffner's book:  "What Every 21st Century Parent  Needs to Know".

I hope this is helpful for those parents who had questions about religious education in their congregations.

Kitty

Yes, your comments are right on.  Haffner quotes Leo Rosten later in that article.  Rosten notes that it is a "person of strong moral character" and, "someone to admire, emulate, someone with noble character", it "is nothing less than character:  rectitude, dignity, a sense of what is right, responsible". 

I probably should read Rosten since I have two Jewish grandchildren, one has been married a year -- to a Catholic.  Perhaps they could use that book in a mixed marriage.  Hm-m-m.