Shabbat Shalom

During Elul and into the High Holidays we share Psalm 27.  The most well-known phrase of the psalm, Achat Sha’alti, is sung here as a  meditation by Rabbi Andrew Hahn, the Kirtan Rabbi.

One thing I ask of the Eternal One 

Is to dwell in God’s house all the days of my life

To be in God’s presence and behold the Divine’s Holy Temple

Shabbat Shalom

Shabbat Shalom

This Shabbat I wanted to share something delightfully offbeat.  This is Cantor Moshe Mendelson singing the Yiddish song Romania Romania.  For about 45 years he has been the Jazan (Cantor) of Mexico City and yes, he is accompanied by a Mariachi Band.  It is a delightful blending of cultures and nationalities and Judaism.  This song is my chance to share a vision of Klal Yisrael.

It has been another tumultuous week filled with challenge and pain.  Shabbat is here.  For a moment, enjoy this respite.

Shabbat Shalom

Shabbat Shalom

This Shabbat I wanted to share Give Me Your Tired, Your Poor, Irving Berlin’s musical rendition of Emma Lazarus’ poem at the base of the Statue of Liberty, sung by the Texas Children’s Choir.

As you listen to this song, children are being detained and forcibly separated from parents at our border.  Regardless of your stand on illegal immigration, this inhumane and cruel act is nothing more than a blight on the greatness that is supposed to be our nation.  Demand Congress act immediately to spare children from this.

Shabbat Shalom