Displaying 1 - 10 of 22
Why do we celebrate Tu BiShvat, the Jewish “New Year of the Trees,” in the middle of winter?
Tu BiShvat, called the "New Year of the Trees," falls at a seemingly incongruous time of year.
Why is caring for the environment emphasized on Tu BiShvat?
Tu BiShvat is a minor festival whose provenance dates only to the time of the Second Temple. However, the kabbalists who clustered around the great fifteenth-century mystic Isaac Luria of Safed placed great weight on the holiday, creating new festivities, gatherings at which hymns were sung, fruit (particularly carob) was eaten, and four cups of wine were taken (as in the Passover seder).
7 Questions You’ll Be Asked By the Heavenly Tribunal
These are the questions our tradition says you will be asked when you pass from this world.
Hamantaschen Guide
When we say "Purim," three-cornered cookies are one of the first things that come to mind for many people. But where did they come from? Learn about the history of hamantaschen and browse a selection of recipes for all types of hamantaschen, both sweet and savory.
Responding to Spiritual Questions and Emotional Needs after Tragedies
Following tragedies, especially those that are manmade, people of all ages have questions about how a good God could let terrible tragedies happen.
Matzah Ball Soup Central
Matzah ball soup is one of the most recognizable Passover dishes, indeed, Jewish dishes, ever. As with any classic dish, there are many ways to make it, all of them delicious in different ways. We have collected some of our favorite recipes here for you.
What is Shushan Purim?
Shushan Purim is a unique day in the cycle of Jewish holidays. Purim is the only holiday whose date depends on where you happen to celebrate it. For most of the world, Purim occurs on the 14th of Adar. However, if you happen to reside in Jerusalem or the city of Shushan (where the story of Purim took place) Purim is on the 15th of Adar. Therefore, the observance is called "Shushan Purim."
Gun Play in Early Childhood
As adults, we must not let our knowledge of real-life violent adult events taint the innocence of childhood. Read these useful tips for parents and caregivers.
Providing Sanctuary for Immigrants Facing Deportation
The concept of “sanctuary” congregations has many definitions and applications. In the 1980s, Reform Movement congregations provided sanctuary primarily to central Americans at risk of deportation.
URJ Congregational Benchmarking and Assessment Project
The URJ Congregational Benchmarking and Assessment Project gives congregations the opportunity to take an inward look in a way that is consistent with other congregations and empowers them to act upon data.