It’s Hard to be a Jew at Christmas, But Even Harder on Tu BiSh’vat
It is a truth universally acknowledged that it can be difficult to be Jewish at Christmas time. It has seeped into North American cultural consciousness so thoroughly that South Park even wrote a song about it, complete with trademark expletives.
The Sacred Act of Unplugging: For Our Kids, For Ourselves
My 6-year-old son recently staged a one-man play in our kitchen. It had a simple plot – a mom with her face buried in her phone, tapping away at the keys while a kid tries to get her attention. “Tap, tap, tap… Mom. Mom. Mom…. tap, tap, tap. Mom, Mom, Mom. Tap, tap, tap. MOM! MOM!
A Cardinal's Synagogue Address: God's Will is for Peace
At some point in his or her career, every member of the clergy is called on to defend the efficacy of organized religion as a force for good.
Shabbat Evening Blessings: Kiddush - Blessing over Wine
Blessing over the wine and sanctification of the day for Shabbat.
Shabbat Evening Worship Services: Chatzi Kaddish
Worship Services: Sh'ma
Referred to as our "watchword of faith," it declares our belief in one God. This prayer serves as the centerpiece of morning and evening services.
Worship Services: V'ahavta
From Deuteronomy and Numbers, this prayer expresses how we will love God.
Shabbat Evening Worship Services: V'shamru and Yismechu
From Exodus 31:16-17, this prayer reminds us that we keep the Sabbath as a sign of the covenant with God.
Can my fiancé and I get married between Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur?
Although Jewish weddings may take place on the days in between the Jewish High Holidays, it is generally discouraged because during that period, also known as the Days of Awe, we are focused on the solemn themes of the season.
Which part of the Torah portion is chanted on Shabbat each week?
Is there a suggested part of the parashah to chant each week?