Posted by in Uncategorized Parshat Vayera Genesis 18:1 – 22:24 There is so much anger in the world. Frank Rich in a recent New York Times’ Op-Ed, “The Rage Won’t End On Election Day” details the rage that seems to explode everywhere and is being drummed up by news figures, politicians and others. The economy and unemployment coupled…Read more »
Posted by in glbt, Uncategorized Today is wear purple day. It was chosen as a day to show solidarity and memorial for those glbt youth who committed suicide because they were bullied. Thank you to Anderson Cooper of CNN who has brought great national attention to this crisis. Thank you to Ellen who has focused additional national attention…Read more »
Posted by in Uncategorized Torah scrolls are sacred. Beautifully calligraphied, they contain the story of the ancient Israelites and our sacred account of the covenant with God. Torah scrolls are written with great piety and ritual by a scribe. At Kol Ami we had the honor and privilege of commissioning a Torah scroll several years ago and many in…Read more »
Posted by in glbt, Uncategorized Today thousands of people will walk the streets of West Hollywood to raise money for Aids Project Los Angeles (APLA). This is an important act of charity. And APLA has been a leader in dealing with the enormity of the HIV/AIDS Crisis since the beginning of it. I am glad that people walk and still…Read more »
Posted by in Uncategorized The list is in. This is the list of the Most Powerful Women in the World. It is refreshing to see a list of women rather than just the usual list of men. But Power is a funny thing–it can be used for good or for ill. Let’s hope each of these women use their…Read more »
Posted by in Uncategorized There are some ins and outs of synagogue life that are a bit unwritten. In an earlier generation of synagogue members there were traditions of giving. But increasingly in congregations people seem to not know what to do. So… in the spirit of bringing to light that which is hidden let’s explore ways you might…Read more »
Posted by in Torah Commentary, Uncategorized Parshat Lech Lecha Genesis 12:1-17:27 The story of the Jewish people begins this week as the Bible introduces us to Abram and Sarai. These are our spiritual parents. Every Jewish person traces their ancestry to these two. And those who choose Judaism as their tribe and faith tradition are even given the names of Abraham…Read more »
Posted by in Uncategorized There are lots of folks who have never belonged to a synagogue community. And in their spiritual journey they seek out the benefits of belonging to a synagogue. The benefits are many. It is hard to be Jewish on your own. Oh, I know people do it all the time. They are unafilliated. In fact…Read more »
Posted by in glbt, Torah Commentary, Uncategorized The descriptions are horrific. The anti-gay gang that was arrested in New York for the brutal attacks on three people pushed homophobia and anti-gay violence to a new level. Eight members of the “Latin King Goonies” have been arrested for their suspected brutal attack on three gay men in the Bronx. They burned and…Read more »
Posted by in Uncategorized The Playoffs are rockin’ in earnest. Halliday’s no-hitter. Lincecum’s 14k’s. The Yankees usual dominance. The post season of Major League Baseball is in literally full swing. I have to say a bit wistfully I don’t know really who to cheer for. I do own a Yankees hat. But that’s the only one of the…Read more »
Walking Humbly. Seeking Justice. Living with Hope. 