Posted by in Israel This year the Jewish organization of Hadassah turns 100! It was founded by Henrietta Szold in 1912! And its work is dedicated to Israel, Jewish life in North America and Zionism. It is the largest women’s organization and largest volunteer organization! Hadassah does such great work. They support Israel in important ways. Of course one…Read more »
Posted by in Israel, Uncategorized Once again the Women of the Wall gathered this week for Rosh Chodesh prayers at the Kotel. Once again approximately 100 women of all denominations who gathered to pray were taunted and cursed by traditional Jews on both sides of the divider. The police filmed. And it was hard to believe that last year at…Read more »
Posted by in Israel, Uncategorized On Thursday morning I attended a wonderful lecture at the home of our Israel Consul General. Dr. Bambi Sheleg a modern Orthodox Israeli Journalist. She is a feminist and a concerned Israeli citizen. She founded a new organization in Israel called Eretz Acheret (which means another land). She is trying to create a dialogue between…Read more »
Posted by in Israel Don’t forget to join us at Kol Ami tonight. The amazing Vox Femina choral group will be filling our sanctuary with Jewish music. Founded by Kol Ami member, Dr. Iris Levine chair of the music department at Cal Poly Pomona, Vox Femina has won numerous awards for their artistry and dedication. They will join with…Read more »
Posted by in Israel In Israel there was a huge rally this weekend. In Tel Aviv on Saturday night thousands gathered against proposed legislation there to create a loyalty oath to the state of Israel. This is aimed at making life uncomfortable for all those who are not Jewish. Read the Haaretz account. The oath would have all non-Jews…Read more »
Posted by in Israel, Uncategorized Here is my Rosh Hashanah Morning Sermon on Israel 5771 As many of you know I spent the month of my sabbatical this summer in Israel. For the last number of years I have spent some time each summer there. It keeps me grounded and connected in a different way to the ancient stories of…Read more »
Posted by in Israel This is the usual stuff from the Chief Rabbinate about the growing non-Orthodox movements in Israel. But it tells you that Israeli Reform and Conservative movements are growing if he feels the need to make these kinds of terrible statements. It does mean that we here in North America must continue to support progressive Judaism…Read more »
Posted by in Israel, Torah Commentary, Uncategorized, Visiting Having just returned from almost a month in the land of Israel, I can say there are things that happen there that are unique. It is a place of wonder, mystery, history and confusion at time. It is a complex place filled with contradictions. Even as ancient Biblical landmarks are discovered through archaeology, young people…Read more »
Walking Humbly. Seeking Justice. Living with Hope. 