Blog

Antisemitism is at record levels. Since the beginning of the Israel/Hamas war, the rate of antisemitic incidents on campuses has risen exponentially. Knowing this, several URJ congregations are challenging antisemitism by working with schools and local boards of education.

On October 7/23 Tishrei, we watched in horror as Israel experienced an unprovoked attack from the Hamas terrorist organization during what should have been the joyous holiday of Simchat Torah. Hundreds of Israelis have been killed or injured; as a Movement, we pray for the quick resolution of this tragic situation.

As we prepare to enter Shabbat, many of us find ourselves continuing the heartfelt prayers we have been saying for the safety of friends and loved ones in Israel.

Registration is open for the second cohort of the Clal Belonging Project. At the heart of the project is a congregant survey that measures belonging through congregant's self-reported experiences of feeling "Noticed, Named, Known, and Needed."

As Yom Kippur 5784 approaches, our commitment to making amends and pursuing restorative justice remains resolute. Even as the final shofar blast sounds at the end of Neilah, we will continue to hold ourselves accountable and atone for the harm suffered by victims and survivors. We will never shirk this challenging, morally demanding work.  

Recognizing that expectations around technology and connection have changed through the years, we have made the decision to move The Tent to a new platform called Mighty Networks, and we think that you will enjoy the new user experience and opportunities to connect and learn together.

Just like some of the employees that are spotlighted in Undercover Boss, congregational educators do work that is critical, yet often underappreciated and undervalued for their impact on the community and their role in vibrant congregations.

A year into our friendship, we sat down to talk about what drew us together. Although we come from different generations - our age difference is 45 years and there will be 32 years between our ordinations as rabbis - we share certain similarities.

Before we know it, Rosh HaShanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot will be upon us in rapid succession, signaling the beginning of the new year and the start of planning for upcoming programs. Here are a few resources to help you reflect and create meaningful experiences for your congregation as you celebrate the High Holidays and move into 5784.