ELUL THOUGHTS | 1-6 ELUL
08/29/2025 09:03:11 AM
The Hebrew month of Elul is the last month of the Jewish year. As such, it is considered a month of spiritual preparation for the High Holy Days. Special meditations are added to the daily service for some, known as S’lichot, or penitential prayers. (*The Saturday before Rosh Hashanah is also known as S’lichot, and it is used as a night of contemplation and study.) For several years, a group of Reform clergy and educators has collaborated...Read more...
TEMPLE TALK | HIGH HOLIDAYS 2025
08/28/2025 08:16:11 AM
To my Temple Israel Friends,
As we approach the High Holy Days, a time of reflection, renewal, and return, our clergy are asking an important question: How do we challenge ourselves in a time that is already so challenging? In many ways, this question has guided much of my own journey as your Board President over the past year.
Like many of you, I have faced moments that tested my resolve—some operational, some financial,...Read more...
TeMPLE TALK | HIGH HOLIDAYS 2025
08/26/2025 09:38:05 AM
L’Shanah Tovah Temple Israel,
At this time every year, as we find ourselves on the precipice of a new year with all the anticipation and hoping and dreaming that comes with it, we are grateful to take a moment to reflect on our past year together, as a Temple Israel community.
The new year brings with it an opportunity for each of us – as individuals, as families, as members of this sacred community – to reflect on the...Read more...
TEMPLE TALK | JUNE 27
07/02/2025 02:53:37 PM
Shabbat Shalom.
For those who may not know me, I’m Robert Friedman. I’ve been a member of Temple Israel since I was eight years old, and I’m deeply honored to share this year’s Pride D’var Torah with you.
For those who do know me, you know that my life has changed significantly in the last few years. Since 2020, I’ve lost over 200 pounds, married my husband Andy after navigating the immigration process,...Read more...
TEMPLE TALK | JUNE 20
06/27/2025 10:33:04 AM
This week's Torah portion is a turning point for our Israelite ancestors wandering in the desert. They have witnessed the unimaginable. Freedom from Egypt, crossing the sea on dry land, literal mana raining from the heavens, water following them on their journey through a barren landscape and all being led by a pillar of fire and cloud of God’s presence manifest in their midst. But as the 12 spy’s return from scouting the...Read more...