This Determined Ugandan Jew is Building a Well for His Village— and did the Fundraising, too.
I want to take camp back to my community, including the joyful Jewish songs and the inclusive, communal style of leading services. I also intend to bring back something more tangible: funds to construct a water well in my community.
How to Make Tishah B’Av Meaningful Today
As the only Jewish holiday occurring during the summer, the primary place in the North American Reform community where we find Tishah B’Av observed – for the most part – is in our summer camps. Nonetheless, Tishah B’Av can provide an opportunity for all Jews to reflect on serious questions concerning the meaning of the Jewish experience and our relationship with God.
How Honoring My Mother's Memory Keeps Her Spirit Alive
I think of my mother, Ann (Chana) of blessed memory, every day. As the yahrzeit (anniversary) of her death approaches, however, more and more, my thoughts focus on her. This year will mark 22 years since she passed away and I feel the need to honor her memory in a special manner that will be meaningful to me.
At this point in my life, I am over the initial loss. Nevertheless, certain things such as learning Torah or performing mitzvot (commandments) in her memory not only comfort and strengthen me, they also keep her spirit alive for me in a tangible way.
Jesus, the Most Influential Rabbi in History
What drove a Reform rabbi to write a book about Jesus aimed at both Christians and Jews?
How Do Reform Jews Understand Tishah B’Av?
How Do I Teach My 12-Year-Old Grandchild About the Holocaust?
Reform Movement Decries National Emergency Declaration to Build Border Wall
Reform Movement Lauds House Passage of Universal Background Checks Legislation
Reform Movement Leaders Reaffirm Commitment to Racial Justice, Condemn Movement for Black Lives Platform Language on Israel
Washington, D.C., August 4, 2016 – In response to the release of the Movement for Black Lives Policy Platform, Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner, Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, issued the following statement on behalf of the Union for Reform Judaism, the Central Conference of American Rabbis, ARZA: The Association of Reform Zionists of America, the American Conference of Cantors, Men of Reform Judaism, Women of Reform Judaism, and the North American Federation of Temple Youth:
Reform Jewish Movement Launches Nationwide Initiative to Protect Voting Rights
Washington, D.C., August 9, 2016 – With general election season well underway, the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (RAC) is launching a new nonpartisan initiative to promote voter protection and participation across the country, beginning with a joint kick-off event with the NAACP on August 18 in Raleigh, NC.