Hey, Cantor! An Elul Q&A with Cantor David Berger
We asked clergy across North America which music, books, art, movies and more help them get into a reflective state of mind as they gear up for the High Holidays. Here’s what Cantor David Berger from Congregation Tikvat Jacob in Manhattan Beach, CA, had to say.
My Rosh HaShanah Sermon is Written, but What Will Happen Next?
I am sitting at my desk in my office, Maroon 5 playing on Pandora, anxiously perusing a variety of news websites: Jerusalem Post, CNN, Haaretz
Mi Shebeirach (Prayer for Healing) for All Immigrants and the Descendants of Immigrants
Do Reform Jews Celebrate One or Two Days of Rosh HaShanah?
Most Reform congregations in North America celebrate Rosh HaShanah for one day
The Music of Avinu Malkeinu
In the game “Truth-or-Dare,” I choose “truth” nearly every time. I’m not much of a dare-taker. Thus, if you and I were playing “Special Edition Truth-or-Dare: High Holy Days,” I would confess that the prayer Avinu Malkeinu provides me with both my second-favorite liturgical moment and my second-greatest pet peeve of the year’s liturgy. (Note: Even though I may have to repent for it, I will leave you in suspense about my favorite liturgical moment and my greatest liturgical pet peeve. Also, “Special Edition Truth-or-Dare: High Holy Days” is fictional, although I hereby declare copyright in the event Mattel or Hasbro comes knocking at my door.)
Making Rosh HaShanah Cards with Kids
Torah Lessons My Father Taught Me
I was a student in my father's ninth grade religious-school class. What I remember the most all these years later is learning Torah from him and, most important, the practical ethical lessons we can apply to our lives from our most sacred text.
B'reishit: Creating a Meaningful World
There are many different ways to understand the majestic account of the Creation described in the beginning of the Torah.