Hanukkah Reconsidered: A Split in the Jewish Soul
I grew up loving this holiday – until I learned the dark side and felt like a kid discovering that there’s no Santa Claus. It turns out Hanukkah is, in part, a tale of Jew vs. Jew.
Reclaiming the Public Square with Hanukkah Lights
According to Rashi, we light Hanukkah candles to “publicize the miracle.” What exactly is the miracle we’re publicizing – and what’s the best way for us to do so today?
How the Jewish Holidays Help Us Create a Better World
Each year, the voice that speaks to my soul about the contrast between the inward focus of Yom Kippur and the outward thrust of Sukkot grows louder and louder.
We're a Multiracial Jewish Family; We Don't Have the Answers, but Here’s a Place to Start
Including Jews of Color or multiracial families for the point of “checking it off the list” needs to bite the dust. Multiracial families do not want to be ignored, but neither do they want to be seen as a way to achieve some sort of board directive
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.
60 Years a Rabbi: What I Learned from My Rabbinic Mentors
Six decades have not diminished my appreciation of the rabbinic mentors who symbolically escorted me to rabbinical school and upon whose shoulders I stand.
Please Join Us, But Not Just on the Days of Awe
We want you to come to High Holiday services, but we want you to come back, too -- when it’s less crowded and when we can welcome you and show you what we’re all about.
What Jewish Experiences Impacted Your Life? Take Our Survey!
When you think back on your life, how has it been informed or influenced by Reform Jewish practice, experiences, and community?
New Paths Toward a Very Jewish Summer: Announcing RJ on the Go and Other Digital Programming
While nothing can replace the feeling of being together in person, the URJ is pleased to introduce several exciting opportunities to connect families to Jewish life in a new way this summer – to all those who seek Jewish meaning, purpose, and joy in their homes.