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!
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.
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.
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.
Why Women’s Groups are Good for Synagogues
Teaching a recent cooking class in my congregation reminded me that even in the 21st century, there’s something unique, warm, and special about a synagogue women’s group.
I Want Hamantaschen to Be Like When I Was a Kid
When I was growing up on Long Island, hamantaschen had a golden yeast dough and filling that oozed from the seams. What ever happened to those delicious treats?
The Value of Experimenting: Why We Invited a Golden Retriever to Shabbat
Like the pied piper, Betsy the dog led us cheerfully into the sanctuary, and as her owner walked up onto the bimah with her, the younger kids automatically followed.
When We Needed It Most, Our Jewish Community Stepped Up
I recently reconnected with my rabbi from Brooklyn after I was reminded of what a lifeline she was to me and my family after disability entered our lives.
After 10 Years of JDAIM, It's Time to Advocate
Begun as a grassroots initiative in 2009, JDAIM makes our Jewish community more understanding, welcoming, and supportive of people with disabilities and their families.
Behind the Scenes at “Semi[te] Sweet: On Jews and Chocolate – The Exhibition”
An exhibit in a Manhattan synagogue invites visitors on a first-ever visual journey into the mysteries, opportunities, and resilience of the Jewish chocolate story.