As the Jewish New Year approaches, the air is filled with a sense of anticipation and hope. One of the most profound traditions during this time is Selichot, a series of prayers that prepare us for the High Holidays. Attending Selichot is an opportunity for individuals and communities to come together for reflection and connecting to each other. (more…)
How do you cope with the stress and anxiety brought on by global events that seem far away yet hit close to home? The wars in Israel and Ukraine have had profound global implications, and their impact is felt acutely in the United States.
For many, the emotional toll of these conflicts leads to heightened anxiety as we grapple with the uncertainty and fear that such global instability generates. Whether due to personal or cultural ties to these regions, or the intensified divisions within American society election, this sense of unease is growing. (more…)
One of the privileges of living in the United States of America, is being able to have conversations about politics and/or religion without the fear of one’s life being at risk. (more…)
On October 7th, when the war in Israel started, I began to feel vulnerable as a Jew. I started to consider where in my life I could find support as a Jewish person and where I might need to reconsider my personal safety. I quickly realized that, as a resident in Verona, I didn’t know more than a few Jewish neighbors. That made me feel vulnerable. What if something antisemitic were to happen to my family? Where could I find support in my own town? (more…)
I wrote this letter to my son in response to the antisemitism we’ve been experiencing in Montclair and our nation. I wrote this letter in time for Shabbat. I plan to read it to him at our Shabbat dinner and insist he puts it away in safe keeping somewhere in his room. I hope my letter helps others discuss antisemitism with their children. (more…)
