October 1996 Laura Stone "Growing Up As a Converso in Panama" Laura Stone grew up as a Catholic in her grandmothers home in Panama where she was keenly aware of customs and rituals that differed from those in the homes of her neighborhood friends. Laura watched without question as mirrors were covered whenever a death in the family occurred and candles were lit in the back room on Friday evenings. Her grandmother filled a box, designated "Elijah's Box," with food items and old clothing. When beggars arrived at their door, they were always given some items taken from "Elijah's Box." Finally, Laura dared to ask, "Why do you call that box "Elijah's Box'?" The answer was simple. Her grandmother told her that one day a beggar named Elijah would appear at their door and the beggar Elijah's arrival would herald the coming of the Messiah. Laura grew up, married, had four children and moved with her family to Sierra Vista, AZ. She returned to Judaism and even became a Bat Mitzvah. Kulanu in Tucson was honored to include her among its active members. Laura was a source of many inspiring stories. Laura Stone passed away in 1999.