How to Prevent Halloween from Overwhelming Your Family
Halloween brings me a bit of stress each year. On a very basic level, I'm just not a fan of this holiday that, in recent years, seems to have become so much bigger than ever before.
Sukkot: Festival of Voting Booths
Sukkot and the Challenge of Refugees
A young man came to a rabbi for a chat.
“I’ve bought a new car” said the young man to the rabbi.
“Congratulations,” he replied.
How Two Canadians Came to Understand and Celebrate American Thanksgiving
As Canadian clergy working in a Reform congregation in New Jersey, we
Belief! And, the Ties that Bind Us
God. Justice. Compassion.
When asked to put your belief in three words what would you say?
Inspired 5781: More Art, More Awe
I grew up going to services. A lot of services. I was adept at counting the ceiling tiles, reaching into the thousands as my grasp of numbers grew more sophisticated. The melodies became part of my life soundtrack; I hummed them as my mind wandered during the rabbi’s sermon.
Russian Émigrés Go Outdoors to Get into Judaism
More than 130 adults and children spent a few days earlier this month building a communal sukkah, eating shared meals outside, singing songs and sleeping in tents under the stars.
And they did it all in Russian.
3 Ideas for Cultivating Teen Reflection and Introspection During the High Holidays
As we slip into Elul, thoughts about the holidays are swirling in my head. I’m an educator who loves using the Meyers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) as a tool to advance self-reflection, interpersonal dynamics, and building resilient teams. For me, this time of year is an especially unique dance between introversion and extroversion, moving in and out of our comfort zones with our Jewish values embracing us along the way. At URJ Kutz Camp, we focus year-round on supporting teen leadership development. During this time of year especially, we are pleased to share resources to encourage conversation between teens and adults.
Halloween, Hospitality, and Jewish Values
Here comes Halloween! For some Americans, this is the holiday, more than Independence Day, more than Thanksgiving, more than even Christmas.