As we continue our trek from Egypt to Sinai, to Redemption and the gift of Torah,
I am moved by ‘Redemption Song,’ knowing our story is sadly not ours alone and is still unfulfilled for too many.
Last night we gathered for Yom HaShoah, the second while our people remain prisoners, held hostage.
Wishing for Shabbat Shalom
#BringThemHomeNOw
Matisyahu and Alex Clare team up to share the words of the Lubuvitcher Rebbe.
The words are simple, the thought profound:
Spread Out
Spread light
Spread Love
All Around the world.
Its never been more critical to Spread Light.
Shabbat Shalom
#BringThemHomeNow
Passover asks us hard questions about what it means to be free and what our obligation is to those who are not.
Passover celebrates the redemption of our people from bondage. It is at the center of what it means to be Jewish. But it is a paradox. What does it mean to be free, particularly when our brethren are held hostage under deplorable, cruel conditions when fighting for freedom against an enemy that comes at the cost of innocents caught up in the battles?
As we gather around the Seder table this year, we celebrate. However, our celebration requires us to commit to helping those who are still not free. Break the middle matzah and hide the Afikomen for dessert later. Share the other piece as a symbol of sharing even this meager bread with those who are hungry.
No one is truly free until all are free. Whether we quote Fannie Lou Hammer, Maya Angelou, or our sacred tradition, we still have work to do to help others find their way to freedom.
Chag Pesach Sameach
#BringThemHomeNow
Nissim Black delivers his rap Zman Cheruteinu for us to get ready for the message of Passover.
Enjoy and Chag Pesach Sameach!
#BringThemHomeNow
Shabbat is approaching and Pesach follows immediately thereafter. I am taking a moment from the preparations to share the beautiful rendition of Stand By Me. It is a fitting prayer seeking Divine connection. Enjoy Music Travel Love as they share their beautiful rendition.
Shabbat Shalom
#BringThemHome
As we gather around the Seder table, we find ourselves in a moment that feels uniquely challenging. While previous generations have confronted serious issues, the current landscape is unlike anything we’ve encountered in recent memory. The ongoing war is relentless, with no end in sight and no plan for what follows. Hostages remain trapped, seemingly without hope for redemption. Furthermore, we are witnessing a rise in anti-Israel sentiment, along with a resurgence of Antisemitism not just abroad but right here in the United States. Fear and anxiety permeate our lives, and rather than coming together to confront these threats, we often find ourselves at odds with each other. This moment in time is fraught with tension.
However, we have the power to respond constructively, with unity and compassion.
By gathering at the Seder table, we embody the spirit of inclusion with our declaration: “Whoever is hungry, come and eat!” This Passover, our hunger for spiritual and emotional support is palpable. Let us set aside our differences to share and celebrate the profound story of our people’s redemption, recognizing that each of us connects to this narrative in our own distinctive way. Our tradition highlights four individuals asking different questions—a reflection of our diverse perspectives. We ought to welcome one another, fostering an environment of understanding even amidst spirited discussions. The Shalom Bayit, the peace of the Seder table, and our unity must prevail. Now, more than ever, we need each other. This Passover, let us cherish our time with family and community, share the powerful story of redemption and freedom, and be grateful that we have one another in these trying times.
Wishing you a Zissen Pesach!
As we prepare for Shabbat, I share Naomi Shemer’s Al Kol Eileh, All these things, performed by Central Synagogue. a song praying for God’s protection and peace.
Shabbat Shalom,
#BringThemHomeNow
Al Kol Eleh-Naomi Shemer’s song to her widowed sister- a song of hope as we continue to pray for the return of the hostages and for peace.
Shabbat Shalom
“Please do not uproot the planted, Do not forget the hope Bring me back and I shall return to the good land” It is spring outside, Passover is approaching, but our lips still struggle to say “Happy Holidays”. We were looking for words of encouragement and comfort, and we found them in the song “Al Kol Eleh”, Over All These, the words of encouragement that Naomi Shemer wrote to her widowed sister. We were joined by the musicians of the IDF Orchestra, conducted by Major Rom Shamir. We hope the line “Bring me back and I shall return” is heard and that our hostages return soon.
Matisyahu -One day
As the fightiing continues, we hope for a better time.
Shabbat Shalom
The traveler’s prayer is shared as we embark on a journey hoping:
May it be Your will that You should lead us in peace and direct our steps in peace, and guide us in peace, and support us in peace, and cause us to reach our destination in life, joy, and peace.
This Shabbat lets pray that our journey might be so and that our destination itself is Peace.
Shabbat Shalom
Thanks to the gifted Marni Loffman.
