December 2024

Community at Temple Israel Rabbi’s Message – January 16, 2025 As we prepare for this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, we are looking forward to continuing our longstanding tradition of the pulpit exchange with Omega Baptist Church. This meaningful collaboration began in 1994, the year Temple Israel moved into its current building, as a gathering between the young adults of both […]

Community at Temple Israel Rabbi’s Message – January 9, 2025 As we gather for Shabbat this week, we find ourselves reflecting on the profound impact of music in our liturgy. Music is not just an accompaniment to our prayers; it is a vital expression of our spiritual lives, a bridge that connects our hearts, minds,

Community at Temple Israel Rabbi’s Message – January 2, 2025 As we ring in the New (secular) Year, it is often a time to reflect on the values that bring us together and guide our community.  Last month, Matt’s grandmother passed, “Bubbe” to our kids, just days after Thanksgiving.  As we gathered in New Jersey

Community at Temple Israel Rabbi’s Message – December 26, 2024 One of the most important aspects of Chanukah is Pirsumei Nisa—“publicizing the miracle.” When we light the candles of the chanukiyah (Chanukah menorah), tradition instructs us to place it by a window so the miracle of the oil and the celebration of the rededication of

Community at Temple Israel Rabbi’s Message – December 19, 2024 There’s a Talmudic teaching that Rabbi Hillel and Rabbi Shammai had differing opinions as to whether we should light the candles in ascending order (from one to eight) or descending order (from eight to one), with each sharing compelling precedents for their opinion.  It’s a

Community at Temple Israel Rabbi’s Message – December 12, 2024 Hanukkah is a time for light, laughter, and community, and we’re inviting everyone to come get in the Hanukkah spirit with us this weekend for two special events to get you in the holiday spirit before we light the first candle on December 25th (details below). 

Community at Temple Israel Rabbi’s Message – December 5, 2024 When you picture Chanukkah, your mind probably jumps to the warm glow of menorahs, the joy of spinning dreidels, and the deliciousness of latkes and sufganiyot, jelly donuts. But beyond these beloved traditions lies a story filled with courage and resilience—one that shines a light