As often as politely possible, I hide from this piece. I find as many excuses as I can to say “no thanks” to the Rabbi’s kind and humbling yearly request to sing it – not enough prep time, too much else going on, someone else can do it better (this last one is always true), etc. This year, however, I said yes.
These are the true golden rules from Hillel. When I studied them in high school, they seemed to apply to almost anything. As I grew older less so. However, it is now in this time of a pandemic that I find them most useful.
This High holiday season may be hard, but we will not be alone.
Read about what’s going on in our congregation and community.
Rabbi Esther Hugenholtz News, Sermon Shoftim
He gripped his little brother’s hand, his stomach churning with fear and embarrassment, his fingers slick with his own sweat. He didn’t dare look at him; the lids of his eyes weighed down by shame and grief, for he knew what was yet to come.
Webmaster News, Religious School Registration
We will start our Religious School on October 18. It will be happening online due to the ongoing pandemic, and will be tailored to provide brief online as well as offline and hands on instruction, taking into account family’s educational needs during these unprecedented times. The Principal and Rabbi look forward to welcoming our children back and bringing Judaism and joy to our youngest and younger community members.
Rabbi Esther Hugenholtz News, Sermon Re'eh
The stars in the sky shone brightly and clearly and I could point out Orion and the Big Dipper to my children on our evening walk. The neighborhood was cast in darkness and we picked our way past downed trees and broken branches by the light of the stars and our flashlights.
Read about what’s going on in our congregation and community.
Rabbi Esther Hugenholtz Sermon Chukat-Balak
One possible approach to the notion of exceptionism is to do something that we Jews are so very good at: love critically.
