Category: Prayer

A Prayer for Peace for Shabbat

May the Almighty grant the leadership of all communities the wisdom to navigate the complex and challenging space they inhabit. Threats of annihilation and destruction must yield to peace for all who inhabit the region.

We pray for the safety of the people who have suffered at the hands of hatred and violence. And hope that a new day will dawn when all will live in peace.

Cain Yehi Ratzon.

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

 

We mourn the loss of Pope Francis

The world mourns the passing of Pope Francis.  He was an extraordinary and holy man. At the age of 88, it is difficult to consider his death untimely, yet indeed, it feels that way.  His pursuit of love remains a lesson unfulfilled despite his tireless efforts to lead the world toward such a place.

Naomi and I had the privilege of an audience with the Pope while in Rome a few years back.  The charismatic presence was matched only by the exuberance of a faithful crowd. The encounter was memorable and moving.

His work on behalf of the poor and the suffering in the pursuit of peace and love was incredible, a mixture of Herculean and Sisyphean.  But as our sage, Rabbi Tarfon shares in Pirkei Avot, although we may never complete the task, we cannot desist from it.  Pope Francis leaned into the daunting, hard work of bringing a voice to the voiceless and the best values of the Church as a beacon into the darkness.

May his soul be bound in everlasting life.  May he rest in Peace.