Getting to the Bimah in a Wheelchair
The bimah is the heart of a temple's sanctuary – a gathering place for life cycle events, the focus of our High Holiday worship rituals, and the site that draws us together when we seek comfort from pain.
In 2007, I was diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis. In my case, it has lived up to its name, and has progressively weakened my body from the waist down, leaving me wheelchair bound. With the loss of my mobility, I also lost the ability to be called for an aliyah, to see the open Torah scroll, to participate in Selichot services, and to join with family and friends for birthday and anniversary blessings. For those of us unable to be on the bimah because of a physical disability, it is easy to feel left out of the Jewish community.
How You Can Participate in National Refugee Shabbat - and Why You Should
Jewish communities across North America will come together for National Refugee Shabbat on October 19-20, 2018, the week we read Parashat Lech L'cha.
How I Found New Views in Israel
Growing up, Israel was a far-away, exotic land that demanded only monetary donations and tree plantings. Recently, I seized a chance to see the country for myself.
Join Us Online for "Songs for All of Us: After Pittsburgh" - and Other Ways to Act
You're invited to join us for "Songs for All of Us: After Pittsburgh," a Facebook Live event featuring music, prayer, healing, and community.
This Shabbat, We Remember Those Lives Lost to Gun Violence
This Shabbat, we say Mourner's Kaddish for all those lives lost to gun violence thus far in 2018.