RJ Blog

Pesach is celebrated by more than 90% of all Jews. We recall the story of our liberation from slavery, but we often forget that we were freed in order to be a holy people. Yom Ha’Atzmaut, Israeli Independence Day, is celebrated by most Israeli citizens, but less than a third of the Jews of America? Why? In the play The Fantastiks, there is a song about vegetables and children. The opening line is, “Plant a radish; get a radish, never any doubt.” The song goes on to the subject of children. “While with children, it’s bewilderin.’ You don’t know until the seed [...]

Temple Beth Shalom in Santa Fe, NM and Yedid Nefesh in Carmiel, Israel have formed a twinning relationship this year through ARZA.  They are coming up with some very creative ways to get to know each other and to form a Mifgash or connection.  Their Pesach project provides all of us with a window on the practice and meaning of Passover in Israel today.  They have shared their project with us so we can invite all of you to be part of their journey.  The project is not done yet, but they have taken the first steps.