Jane E. Herman

Jane E. Herman (she/her), a.k.a. JanetheWriter, a longtime writer and editor at the Union for Reform Judaism, is now a senior writer at JCC Association of North America and blogs at JanetheWriter Writes. She grew up at Temple Emanu-El in Edison, N.J., and currently belongs to Temple Shaaray Tefila in New York City.

Shabbat

Blessings and Customs for Shabbat

Jane E. Herman

Learn about the customs of the Shabbat table, and the meanings behind them.

Jewish Rituals and Symbols

Six Things to Know About Sh'mini Atzeret and Simchat Torah

Jane E. Herman

Just as Sukkot ends, Reform Jews enjoy the two-in-one-day holiday of Sh’mini Atzeret and Simchat Torah. Here are six things to know about this celebration.

Ritual Objects

9 Things to Know About Sukkot

Jane E. Herman

Even though the High Holidays are over, there is still plenty of celebrating to do. Here are nine things to know about Sukkot, the holiday that follows Yom Kippur.

Rosh HaShanah

On Rosh HaShanah, There's More to Eat Than Apples and Honey

Jane E. Herman

Our fondest memories often center on family gatherings and delicious meals that include foods related to specific Jewish holidays – matzah brei on Passover, latkes during Hanukkah, or cheesecake on Shavuot

Firefighter from behind climbing steps to a building in a raging fire

Disaster Relief

How to Support the Victims of Northern California’s Wildfires

Jane E. Herman

August 10, 2018

As wildfires continue to ravage northern California, learn what you can do to help support the victims.