Virtual Shabbat Box
Your Virtual Shabbat Box holds many ways to celebrate the day. Choose what nurtures you: listen, watch or read.
July 11-12
Devon Spier’s prayer is a valiant attempt to articulate the unfathomable. As we come to grips with the devastating floods and loss of life in central Texas, this prayer answers the universal desire to make sense of the senseless.
Mathew Boxer, Ph.D., who researches the socio-demography and social psychology of the American Jewish community, will be the July guest on the Evolve podcast. Read his study of emotional attachment to Israel and then listen to the episode when it drops July 24. Subscribe here.
How to interact with those who hold opposing viewpoints may be the central question of our time. Exploring this question, Rabbi Steve Gutow shares lessons gleaned from Yokhanan ben Zakkai and rabbis Hillel and Shammai. Gutow also shares his personal code of conduct.
Did you miss the Evolve podcast episode featuring Ali Michael, Ph.D.? Catch up now! Michael, an expert on race and education, defends the educational value of diversity, equity and inclusion programs against federal pushbacks.
July 4-5
As we celebrate July 4, what can each of us do to protect democracy in the United States? Inspired by Timothy Snyder’s book On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century, Reconstructionist leaders and thinkers reflect on those lessons.
Alex Carter’s prayer and poem is a celebration of American diversity. It is also a prayer for a better future; one built upon the values of justice and compassion.
Rabbi Deborah Waxman’s prayer, written in response to a series of terrifying events, asks the “God of capaciousness,” to “give us the expansiveness to hold our dear ones ever closer and to work toward peace and equity on behalf of people we will never meet.”
Rabbi Maurice Harris imagines a series of protests responding to anti-transgender policies. This story speculates how a grassroots campaign might gain momentum and lead to transformative legislation. A work of fiction or a prophetic call for a more hopeful tomorrow?
June 27-28
This vital prayer by Rabbi/Cantor Eva Robbins calls on the Divine Presence to be the rock we all need, to fill us with “light and hope.”
Ali Michael, Ph.D., defends the educational value of diversity, equity and inclusion programs against federal pushbacks. She also shares eye-opening insights from her year-long conversations with U.S. educators responding to a post-Oct.7 reality.
Jeremy Hanson Willis shares how his life, values, and vision shape his new leadership role at Reconstructing Judaism. He speaks about racial justice, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and building a vibrant Jewish future rooted in equity and belonging.
Scholar and ethicist Louis Newsman, Ph.D., identifies core Jewish values that bolster arguments in defense of American universities. This essay also articulates the contributions universities make to American society and democracy.
June 20-21
In this painful time of war, devastation and political violence, Rabbi Haviva Ner David asks for the strength and wisdom “to continue loving and building trust and friendship across boundaries and amidst the hate and separation.”
The liberation of enslaved people in 1865 was not the end of the story. This collection of essays explores slavery’s legacy and how we support efforts to bring about a more just, compassionate and equal society.
Enslaved people are omnipresent in the Hebrew Bible and rabbinic literature. Rather than ignore these instances — or the moral failings of rabbinic sages — Rabbi Mira Wasserman, Ph.D., is examining slavery in Jewish sources from ethical and historical perspectives.
In this can’t miss Evolve web conversation, Dietra Reiser, Ph.D., defends Jewish DEI investment despite growing governmental hostility, asserting it’s about pursuing collective liberation.
June 13-14
Scholar Devin Naar, Ph.D., explores how American racism has impacted Jewish communities since the 17th century through teachings and lesson plans. Naar’s work is featured in Race, Religion and American Judaism. Click on the lecture “Between Privilege and Peril” to unpack George Washington’s much-cited letter to the Jews of Newport — and the ways it highlights Jewish difference and vulnerability.
Rabbi Lilly Solochek’s prayer beseechs “the One who delivered our ancestors from oppression to freedom, redeem us and all marginalized peoples.” This piece makes a perfect addition to any celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride Month.
The Shalom Center’s Rabbi Nate DeGroot writes that “the future of our planet demands that we recognize inequity and defend our communities against compound injustice.” This essay tackles the links between climate change and white supremacy — and what we can do.
In his d’var Torah on Parshat Beha’alotekha from the book of Numbers, Rabbi Jonathan Kligler explores Moses’ leadership, the Israelites’ power dynamics and what it can teach us today about community and authority.
June 6-7
Rabbi Nathan Martin’s prayer asks for divine blessing and strength for everyone working together to combat antisemitism and bias while emphasizing that all people are created in God’s image.
Reconstructionist communities honor all humans as created in God’s image and support LGBTQ+ rights and foster inclusive spaces. Check out these resources and actions to mark Pride Month through a Jewish lens.
Like the Amidah, Judaism’s central prayer, this prayer/poem honors ancestors. It invokes the names of Queer trailblazers such as Gilbert Baker, Harvey Milk, Marsha P. Johnson and Larry Kramer.
As part of Evolve’s Talmudic conversation on Jewish community, Rabbi Shawn Zevitt examines how Jewish communities can positively respond to this fractious moment.
May 30-31
Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., in a speech adapted from remarks delivered at RRCs graduation, discusses the importance and challenge of building covenantal communities. “Covenant,” writes Waxman, “is an ancient Jewish concept that places relationships at the center.”
Rabbinical student Jodi Rosenfeld’s poem is, by its very nature, a difficult-to-describe metaphor. Read it quietly or aloud and you’ll find a new way of thinking about Shavuot.
The litany of disturbing news can feel like a never-ending onslaught. Yet Rabbi Daria Jacobs-Velde teaches that Judaism offers a wellspring of resilience practices and Shavuot may be the perfect time to access this deep-seated wisdom.
Dating back to the sixteenth century, the all-night study session on erev Shavuot has been a custom in many Jewish communities. Can’t make it to a Tikkun Leil Shavuot? No problem, we’ve gathered everything you need.
May 23-24
Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., describes a recent service-oriented trip to Israel. She writes that, especially in times of heartbreak, helping others can help us crack our hearts open.
In this podcast, Rabbi Sid Schwarz makes a case for spiritual Zionism— the commitment to an Israel that nurtures Judaism’s deepest cultural, religious and ethical foundations, beyond just politics or military strength.
In an essay rooted in Torah, Proverbs and the Mishnah, Rabbi James Greene argues that when it comes to standing up for immigrants and defending human rights, Jews “cannot let ideological consensus on all issues be the downfall of shared resistance.”
Cathy Ostroff’s poem asks if the counting of the Omer can bring lost souls back from the void.
May 16-17
Rabbi Michael Strassfeld’s latest project is a bold one: to write new Shabbat liturgy that speaks to the lives of Jews today. In this essay, the co-author of The Jewish Catalogue shares his process and what he’s done so far.
In a piece that touches on Reconstructionist Judaism and philosophy, Joshua Boettiger, a noted poet, discusses the nature of obligation and the meaning of community.
“One can infer that when a Jewish community comes together intentionally, God is present,” writes Rabbi Jamie Hyams in her blessing for a group bike ride.
In this d’var Torah on Parshat Emor, Rabbi Jonathan Kligler highlights one of the most famous phrases from Leviticus to show how Judaism has evolved throughout millennia.
May 9-10
Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., recently announced that, come summer 2026, she’ll step down as president & CEO of Reconstructing Judaism. For a deeper understanding of Waxman’s approach to theology, watch her 2017 talk from the Chautauqua Institution.
In this podcast, Rabbi Deborah Waxman is joined by Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie for a vital conversation about the complexities of Zionism, Israeli identity and progressive Jewish values.
Read and listen to Rabbi Daniel Raphael Silverstein’s poetic homage to shared humanity.
Rediscover this Torah commentary by legal scholar and proud Reconstructionist Ellen Dannin, z“l (1951-2023). She asked how the Biblical injunction against ingesting blood can add insight to the way Reconstructionists live in the modern world.
May 2-3
There are just three days left to vote in the World Zionist Congress elections. In case you missed it, listen to this Hashivenu episode featuring Rabbi Jodie Siff and her son, Aaron Siff-Scherr, in conversation with Rabbi Deborah Waxman about progressive Zionism, Jewish identity and the importance of the World Zionist Congress. And look for a new Hashivenu episode featuring Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie.
Activist and organizer Roan Boucher details the unprecedented surge in anti-trans legislation across America — and its connection to Christian Nationalism.
The poet Trisha Arlin expresses essential truths: counting is about more than numbers; it’s about marking time. Also, each of us has a story and must cross our own Sea of Reeds.
Deitra Reiser, Ph.D., argues that the “weaponizing of antisemitism as a legitimate reason to end diversity, equity and inclusion efforts is illustrative of smokescreen antisemitism and is dangerous for our community.”
April 25-26
Explore shared values and the Reconstructionist vision for a safe and vibrant future for Israelis and Palestinians.
In this podcast, Rabbi Jodie Siff and her son, Aaron Siff-Scherr, join Rabbi Deborah Waxman for an intergenerational conversation on progressive Zionism, Jewish identity and the importance of the World Zionist Congress.
Rabbi Sid Schwarz argues that Israel must empower and partner with the Jewish people tangibly — and points toward a model.
Access this Yom Ha’azma’ut educator’s guide featuring activities to help diverse families and communities meaningfully mark these holidays. Created in 2024, this curriculum remains highly relevant.
April 18-19
Jessica de Koninck’s quiet, devastating poem conjures the desperation experienced by Jews in 1930s Germany and the enduring power of the Passover liberation.
Scott A. Buckler argues that precision of language is essential in discussing the perpetration of the Holocaust.
In this thought-provoking review-essay, Rabbi Dennis Sasso, RRC ‘74, explores the post-Holocaust theology of Rabbi Irving Greenberg, the pioneering modern Orthodox thinker
This poem by Devon Spier investigates concepts of holiness and brokenness after Auschwitz.
April 11-12
Rabbi Deborah Waxman shares how the Passover seder is marked by complexity and diversity of voices.
Looking for new melodies for your Passover table — or any part of the Jewish calendar? Explore Harmoniyah, a trove of music from across the Reconstructionist movement.
Two new supplements to the Reconstructionist hagaddah explore the textual, historical and moral connections between Passover and reparations.
Rabbi Helen Plotkin’s teaching explores the rich symbolism of the breaking of the matzah.
April 4-5
The joy of Passover comes from celebrating our people’s liberation. Rabbi William Plevan, Ph.D., asks how we can celebrate in these troubling times — and offers a compelling answer.
Kubbah potato patties were a staple of Adva Chattler’s Mizrahi-Israeli home. In this video, she shares her grandmother’s recipe.
Poet Ellen Blum Barish’s ode to the seder extolls the power of storytelling and impact of hearing stories repeatedly.
Rediscover this podcast gem from our archives: Rabbi Michael Strassfeld offers an alternative set of four questions for the Passover seder.
March 28-29
Check out Reconstructing Judaism’s annual report to see how the organization, guided by Jewish values, has helped individuals, families, and communities live with meaning, compassion, and resilience.
In this podcast, Rabbi James Greene describes how his organization is assisting refugees after its federal funding has been gutted.
Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer shares how Ritualwell has built a virtual minyan praying for hope and healing.
Three Reconstructionist Rabbinical College students explore how Jewish tradition can help everyone overcome body-image issues and fatphobia.
March 21-22
Rabbi Elliott Tepperman explains the importance of the World Zionist Congress and why he’s running on the Hatikvah slate.
The Reconstructionist Education Database goes live March 25. Learn how it will make Reconstructionist education more effective and relevant.
Rabbi David Teutsch, Ph.D., explores how we can create and sustain meaning-rich communities with the power to transform lives.
Before this week’s Torah portion, the text refers to the wandering Israelites as “the people of Israel,” but now calls them “the house of Israel.” Rabbi James Greene explores the significance of this terminology shift.
March 14-15
Learn about the Virtual Shabbat Box’s origins. While the world has changed over the past five years, these weekly resources continue to provide meaning and inspiration.
At Purim, we’re encouraged to drink to excess, but what if you’re in recovery? Rabbinical student Anna Coufal offers a ritual meditation for those committed to abstaining from addictive behavior.
Rabbi Shammai Engelmayer’s prayer celebrates Adar, the coming of Purim and the proximity of Passover.
From the Virtual Shabbat Box archives: In this 2021-piece, Rabbi Irwin Keller—self-described drag queen—reflects on what it means to dress up for Purim.
March 7-8
Rabbi Barbara Penzner explores the topsy-turvy nature of the Purim story. The holiday’s message, she writes, is about the power of human beings to embody Godliness and do right in the world.
Think you know Purim? If you haven’t experienced the festive meal, you’ve missed half the zaniness and insight.
Learn how to make these Mizrahi Purim treats and spice up your holiday celebration.
Rabbi Seth Goldstein reminds us how we drown out the sound of bad things – from both the Purim story and in our daily lives!
February 28-March 1
This podcast featuring Rabbi David Jaffe and Yehudah Webster explores how the practice of Mussar (Jewish ethical teachings) can help people change their own behavior and confront racism.
This a cappella performance is an interpretation of the Ashrei prayer, which is traditionally recited three times daily and drawn from Psalm 145.
The loss of hostages, of so much life, is still so fresh. This poem by Rabbi Tsurah August urges us to feel profound emotions — rather than suppress them.
Black History Month may be drawing to a close, but thinking and learning should happen year-round. These educational videos, articles and curricula explore the interaction of Jews and race.
February 21-22
This poem by LilyFish Gomberg powerfully expresses how profound grief and sadness can manifest in our bodies.
This collection of essays explores what it means to be obligated to one another as part of a sacred community.
Rabbi David Jaffe and Yehuda Webster argue that now is not the time for white-majority Jewish communities to crouch into self-protective mode. Instead, they must work with partners to combat racism and antisemitism at the same time.
Rabbi Lauren Grabelle Herrmann’s prayer is a call for a country and world in which everyone is treated equally and as if they were created in the divine image.
February 14-15
Growing up, Rabbi Aya Baron saw Tu B’shvat as a way to get out of Hebrew school class. Now, she sees the holiday as a path to explore profound inner landscapes.
Two rabbinical students elevate ways that all Jewish spaces can learn from the wisdom of the disability community.
Rabbi Asher Sofman explains the importance of JDAIM and inclusion work in the Jewish community.
Rabbinical student Kara A. Wilson reflects on whiteness as a “pervasive force that shapes society.”
February 7-8
We all need nourishment. Learn how to make date and nut marble treats for your Tu B’Shvat gathering.
This engaging collection of essays explores Judaism’s relationship to the natural world, environmentalism and the holiday of Tu B’Shvat.
February is Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month (JDAIM.) This prayer by Mat Wilson serves as a reminder that each of us can worship in the fullness of who we are.
Alan Cole’s prayer is also a call to government to act with “kindness and compassion to the oppressed.”
January 31-February 1
This urgent, necessary prayer by Rabbi Emily Aviva Kapor-Mater beseeches the God of our ancestors to grant life and happiness “for all who cross over the boundaries of life.”
In a conversation both deeply personal and grounded in history and sociology, Ilana Kaufman, CEO of the Jews of Color Initiative, shares her mission and how the work has been so challenging in a post-October 7 world.
Rabbi Alex Weissman shares what happened when his plans to use mussar to address racism met the realities of a volatile world — and how he adapted.
Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer offers appreciation for the bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, who spoke from the pulpit urging national leaders to have compassion on immigrants, LGTBQ folks and all who are vulnerable.
January 24-25
Cantor Jennifer Duretz Peled wrote this song and prayer not long after Oct. 7, but the words and melody will resonate until every hostage is free. Sourced from Ritualwell
Rabbis Sandra Lawson and Alex Weissman share how they worked with rabbinical school faculty and used traditional Jewish practices to confront racism in hearts and minds.
Ilana Kaufman writes about her childhood experiences, the problem of thinking of Jews and Blacks as distinct populations, and how everyone can be inspired and committed to the Jewish future.
In this d’var Torah, Rabbi Steven Carr Rueben writes of the importance given to names in the Torah.
January 17-18
All of the hostages need our prayers; those we pray are on their way to freedom and a chance to rebuild their lives, those still in captivity and those who didn’t make it out alive. Rabbi Janet Madden’s powerful poem helps channel all these thoughts and emotions.
Rabbi Sandra Lawson writes that, by working together for social justice, communities “embody the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the enduring call of Jewish values to pursue a better world.”
Stanley Levison may not be a household name, but the Jewish New Yorker was one of Martin Luther King Jr.’s closest friends and advisers. Evolve podcast host Bryan Schwartzman writes about what we can learn from their relationship.
Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Beyond Speech” is today considered one of his most consequential. In it, he talks of “a shift from a thing-oriented society to a person-oriented society.” Hear King’s words chanted to traditional haftarah melodies.
January 10-11
Trained chaplains can make a profound difference in difficult situations. Learn about how RRC students train to be chaplains, grow professional skills and engage in deep theological reflection — while serving others.
Kohenet Keshira haLev Fife offers a deeply felt petition to the divine presence to alleviate much of what ails the world. More powerfully, she calls upon each to partner with the divine to “create the world as it could be.”
Rabbi Irwin Keller writes about the Taproot Community and his search to more fully understand the biblical Joseph, who might be understood as having lived a life of gender fluidity. Ultimately, Keller hopes “that we might all be seen in our complexity.”
In his commentary on the final portion of Genesis, Rabbi Lewis Eron explores how “our bodies are like Torah scrolls.”
January 3-4
Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., explains how the concept of covenantal community is crucial to understanding what it means to be a Reconstructionist Jew.
Tashmishei mitzvah are objects used to perform a mitzvah. Writer Char Hersh offers blessings for using medical devices, fulfilling the mitzvah of taking care of one’s body.
The largest Reconstructionist gathering since the 2022 convention focused on “the depth and breadth of Reconstructionist engagement with Israel.”
In this podcast, author Myra Sack reflects on her work in grief literacy and her own grief process after the death of her 2-year-old daughter, Havi. She also discusses the importance of observing rituals and finding forgiveness.
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These resources were drawn from:
- Evolve: Groundbreaking Jewish Conversations
- Hashivenu: Jewish Teachings on Resilience
- Recon Connect Beit Midrash
- Reset: Providing Jewish activists with accessible spiritual practice and teachings
- Ritualwell
- The Center for Jewish Ethics
Previous Virtual Shabbat Boxes by month:
- December 2024
- November 2024
- October 2024
- September 2024
- August 2024
- July 2024
- June 2024
- May 2024
- April 2024
- March 2024
- February 2024
- January 2024
- December 2023
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- October 2023
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- August 2023
- July 2023
- June 2023
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- March 2023
- February 2023
- January 2023
- December 2022
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- July 2022
- June 2022
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- February 2022
- January 2022
- December 2021
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- December 2020
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