5784 Hanukkah Message from Rabbi Rick Jacobs
A central theme of Hanukkah is Jewish sovereignty. To commemorate our independence and express our Jewish pride, we light our hanukkiyot publicly after sundown each night – outside in public spaces, or in a window or doorway at home. Doing so allows others to see the candles shining in the darkness, symbolizing the open expression of our Jewish identity.
Responding to Antisemitism: A Toolkit
Since the attacks on October 7, antisemitism has increased exponentially throughout the world. On North American college campuses, students are facing antisemitism at an alarming rate. Here are five tips designed to help you keep your community secure and support your families during this unprecedented time.
Civil Discourse – How to Facilitate Productive Conversations about Hard Topics
The guide below offers some frameworks and shared agreements for structured group conversation as well as some suggested questions.
Honoring our Smallest Congregations on a Road Trip
This summer, Rabbi Jeff Glickman and his wife, Mindy Glickman, volunteered to visit our smallest and most remote URJ congregations (those with 150 households or fewer) on their RV travels across North America.
Is it Antisemitism? If It Is, Now What? Guidance for a Post-October 7th World
Before sharing some tools for facing and combating antisemitism, it’s important to have a clear understanding of exactly what antisemitism is.
Staying Connected with Our Loved Ones Even When we Disagree
Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel on October 7th and Israel’s ongoing response has stirred emotions both within and outside the Jewish community. Over the next weeks, as family and friends gather for holiday celebrations, there may be differences of opinion. Here are a few tips from Jewish sources to help maintain loving relationships while disagreeing.
Training Opportunities for Your Board and President
The effects of the events of October 7 have resonated differently with different people. More people are seeking comfort, connection, and community. Our Reform Jewish community is uniquely positioned to provide this. We should be leaning into opportunities to help bring people into our communities.
Combating Antisemitism with Education
Antisemitism is at record levels. Since the beginning of the Israel/Hamas war, the rate of antisemitic incidents on campuses has risen exponentially. Knowing this, several URJ congregations are challenging antisemitism by working with schools and local boards of education.
Keeping Our Congregations Secure
On October 7/23 Tishrei, we watched in horror as Israel experienced an unprovoked attack from the Hamas terrorist organization during what should have been the joyous holiday of Simchat Torah. Hundreds of Israelis have been killed or injured; as a Movement, we pray for the quick resolution of this tragic situation.
Rabbi Rick Jacobs' Shabbat Message of Compassion and Strength
As we prepare to enter Shabbat, many of us find ourselves continuing the heartfelt prayers we have been saying for the safety of friends and loved ones in Israel.