Rethinking the Holy Days
I’ve come to the conclusion we need to change the date of Simchat Torah. Our Jewish festivals must be re-envisioned as inspirational community gatherings of joyful spiritual Jewish celebration. Every single festival needs to be a time of great community involvement and meaning.
Year Long Commitment to Tikkun Olam
How Two Congregations Are Recovering from Hurricane Florence
Rabbi Emily Losben-Ostrov was new to her congregation in Wilmington, NC, when she faced an unprecedented challenge: a Category 4 hurricane during the Days of Awe.
Acharei Mot for Tweens
Learn about the the portion that describes the ancient observance of Yom Kippur in this fun tween-friendly discussion guide.
Remembering Yom Kippurim Past
Last Yom Kippur afternoon, unable to concentrate because of the rumblings of my stomach – which I hoped only I could hear – my mind began to wander.
Being Together in Community Again: What Every Congregation Needs to Know
On Yom Kippur and Year-Round, Help Others to Choose Life
“…I have set before you life or death, blessing or curse; choose life, therefore, that you and your descendants may live.”
The Power of Tears
Why does the Torah mention the deaths of Nadab and Abihu here in Acharei Mot, when the story of their deaths was told in its entirety in Parashat Sh'mini? What is it that the Torah is trying to teach us through this repetition?
For The Sin of Prejudice: Growing Up Jewish as a Person of Color
Every year on the High Holidays, police officers sit outside our synagogue to protect our community and building from harm.