As we enter the last Shabbat of 2025, I share Auld Lang Syne, the famous song of this time of year, written by Scottish composer and poet Robert Burns. It asks us to remember that our humanity and our kindness are expressed in our relationships with others. As we move into the new year, resolve to love others, treat them with dignity, respect, and compassion. May we find ways to forgive others and ourselves.
Shabbat Shalom
We prepare for the first night of Hanukkah, deeply shaken 
by the murderous assault on Bondi Beach and at Brown University.
The wanton hatred and violence are almost overwhelming. But we must find a way to gather this evening around our chanukiot, light our candles, place them in the window, and be with each other, letting the miracle of rededication take hold with an additional layer of meaning, overcoming the darkness of the moment and shining a light of love and hope.
Chag Urim Sameach,
Rabbi David Levin
President
The Board of Rabbis of Greater Philadelphia
As we welcome Shabbat, Chanukah is just beyond. The Shabbat Candles of Friday will be followed by the first lights of Chanukah on Sunday eve.
Six13 shares a delightful medley blending Wicked music with great Chanukah lyrics. Enjoy!
Lean into the light this season and experience the warmth and glow of our tradition.
Shabbat Shalom
Oseh Shalom sung by Hazzan Azi Schwartz- A prayer for peace as we enter Shabbat.
Shabbat Shalom
#BringThemHomeNow
The Y-Studs guide us through the music of Shabbat, exploring the Evolution of Shabbat. Take five minutes and enjoy as we welcome Shabbat.
We are overjoyed the 20 held hostage are finally home. We pray for the return of all, and may peace finally come to all people of the area.
Shabbat Shalom
#BringThemHomeNow
I am overjoyed that the Gaza War may be ending and that the hostages will return home soon. May peace finally come to this region and both peoples find their way to peaceful coexistence.
As we remember the horror of October 7 and the aftermath, the words of Menachem Rosensaft bring us a somber resonance. Let this day of remembrance stir us to mercy for the child, not because we doubt our cause, but because we cherish our conscience.
“the dead child
in gaza city
khan younis
rafah
is cried over
with the same tears
by the same God
the same Allah
the same Adonai
as the dead child
in kfar aza
nahal oz
be’eri
…
and it is
for the not yet dead child
palestinian child
israeli child
muslim child
jewish child
that the killing must end
the war must end
the terror must end
the hatred must end”
—Menachem Rosensaft, from Burning Psalms: Confronting Adonai after Auschwitz (Ben Yehuda Press, 2025)
With the increasing violence in public spaces, maybe the answer is yes. What should I do about it? I could cower; many people have said they remove their Jewish symbols, like a Chai or Magen David, because they fear being targeted.
I have been wearing a kippah for many years, and since the war started, I wear a kippah with the Israeli flag and the words “Am Yisrael Chai” stenciled inside. I am proud to show who I am and what I stand for. But does it come with any risks?
My kippah has actually been an invitation for people from all walks of life to approach me. At a Costco, on a turnpike rest stop, or while walking on the street, people offer words of encouragement and support. Most people are decent folks. Most are not looking to harm others; they are living their lives and caring for their loved ones, just as I strive to do.
We must not allow acts of violence from uncontrolled radicals to control us. Those responsible for protecting us face a significant challenge, and a system based on freedom rather than repression often leaves them a step behind in safeguarding our rights and safety. They require additional support to perform this vital work. We can help.
We need to get out, gather, socialize, and connect with others. We don’t have to agree, but we must show we care. We need each other. The hateful rhetoric shouldn’t be fought with more hate, but by reaching out, creating, and living in the society we believe in.
My kippah is a symbol and a call to the people I meet that our humanity continues to thrive. That is the kind of target I strive to be.
This song caught my heart today. Thanks to the Maccabeats for Minyan Man.
With so much divisiveness, it’s good to remember Kol Arevim Zeh laZeh, All Israel is responsible for one another. Each of us is important. Each of us can make a difference. Together, let’s welcome Shabbat and welcome God’s peace.
Shabbat Shalom
#BringThemHomeNow
Oseh Shalom, May there be peace for all of us.
Thanks to Cantors Benji Schiller, Azi Schwartz, and Shira Lissek for this beautiful prayer.
Shabbat Shalom
#BringThemHomeNow
