Rabbi's Corner

Message from the Rabbi

“and that you may recount in the hearing of your child and of your child’s child how I made a mockery of the Egyptians and how I displayed My signs among them—in order that you may know that I am יהוה.” (Exodus 10:2)
It is the sentence upon which the Rabbis instruct us to build an elaborate spectacle in order to engage children in recounting the story of Passover.  Understanding that each child learns differently, we construct an evening of props and texts and food of all sorts of textures.  We have leaning, standing and sitting for those who need to move around a little more than others. We have sweet, savory and bitter foods for the varied palettes. All of this is done in order to engage people from young to more mature in learning the story. 
The lesson is that we must tell our story. To which, I ask you to do the following thought exercise.  And I ask, no matter what age your children are: What are we sharing with our children? What do we want them to know about ourselves? 


Mark Your Calendars all at 8:00 on zoom at https://zoom.us/j/95417257214?pwd=NjFENloxOEpGSGhrc1M5dWQ4SG9UQT09
January 30
Religion and Politics
Now that President Trump has been inaugurated, it is time to have a serious conversation about the role of religion in politics.  Our country has steadfastly stood behind the principle of separation of church and state.  But have we?  Let's have a serious discussion about the role of religion in shaping society.
February 13
Not all Uncomfortable Conversations Have to Be Difficult
We all have to visit someone who is ill, elderly or make a shiva call.  In this workshop, I will teach you about how to do that. What is the best way to start?  How do you move on from just talking about the weather?  And how to end the conversation.  No doubt this workshop will deepen every conversation and I look forward to sharing my 30+ years experience in this area.
March 20 
Whine and Wine
We like to brainstorm ideas about how to survive life.  Or just complain.  In the past we have talked about raising kids or dealing with aging parents or both at the same time.  Well, holidays present their own unique set of challenges, especially Passover.  Let's get it all out and talk or just kvetch.
March 22nd and 23rd
Pulpit Swap
Reverend Dr. Blaine Crawford and I will be doing a Pulpit Swap.  That means he will preach in our community on Shabbat morning March 22nd then the next day I will be preaching in his church, Irvington Presbyterian Church, the next day Sunday March 23rd.  As faith leaders we have so much to share with each other that can inspire.  We look forward to meeting new people and showing off our congregations.