The Rosh HaShanah Amidah
The basic Rosh HaShanah Amidah is an elaboration of that for the Festivals. Both have seven benedictions, as on Shabbat—the first three and last three of the daily Amidah, with the Kedushat hayom (“Sanctity of the Day”) benediction in the middle.1 On both Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur, the Kedushat hayom benediction builds on the text for the Festivals:
My Chinese and Jewish Family Celebrates Three New Years
My father is fond of reminding my family of how lucky we are to be Chinese and Jewish. “Three New Year celebrations means three chances for a fresh start!
Shari's Apple-Filled Challah
For an extra sweet Shabbat, this variation on traditional challah adds some sweet apples to the dough just before braiding.
Transforming Judgment and Mercy
Earlier this week, I testified in front of the Ohio state Senate Judiciary committee. Speaking on behalf of Reform Ohio, I represented clergy who serve more than 43,000 Jews in 34 synagogues in every corner of the state.
Rio de Janerio: Culture & Community
Why the Hebrew Month of Adar Will Never Be the Same for Me
Despite the imperative to be joyous during the Hebrew month of Adar, I cried recently at the Western Wall during Rosh Chodesh services marking the new month.
The New Machzor: Faithful Translations
Some Rabbinic texts suggest that the first translation of the Torah into Greek received a kind of divine imprimatur by the Holy One himself (or, herself). Seventy translators each produced an identical translation, a miraculous feat!
State of the Unions: the Supreme Court Case that Could Permanently Change Unions
On Monday, February 26, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on the case of Janus v.
Leading a Passover Seder: The Freedom to be Creative!
I do not have enough fingers and toes on which to count the various kinds of Passover seders I have participated in or led. So many have been close to my heart, building and reinforcing my Jewish identity year after year.
Praying with Women of the Wall
Praying with the Women of the Wall is a very unique experience.