I was standing in a circle of people, and I thought many, if not most, were Jewish. They were searching for their names, possibly referring to their chosen identity. I said to the group in a friendly tone, not as their leader but as an outspoken member: “I can tell you your Hebrew names if you like, and I can spell them for you also.” Several women gave me their English names, and in turn, I gave them their Hebrew names and spellings.

By now, the group was sitting comfortably, and I asked them: “Just out of curiosity, how many of you are Cohens?” Three men replied, and I was surprised at how many were within this relatively small group. One woman also responded: “I am a Cohen.” I then said to her in a calm and friendly voice: “No, dear, I’m afraid that’s not possible. Only men can be Cohen’s.”