We’d like to share this video message for Passover 2021 from Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., the president of Reconstructing Judaism.
As part of the American Values, Religious Voices project, Elsie Stern writes to America’s executive and legislative leadership on the 50th day of President Biden’s administration to reflect on what it means to be “in the thick of” sacred work.
In her presentiation, Rooted and Relevant: 21st Century Jewish Life, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., explores how Reconstructionist Judaism can lead the way in the post-COVID world toward a religious revival that meets this century’s new realities.
From its very beginnings, the Jewish story is full of journeys. When it comes to racial justice work, the Reconstructionist movement is in the midst of a profound journey.
Rabbi Yael Ridberg writes: It is no secret that much of the world can’t wait for 2020 to end. The compounded losses brought to us by the COVID-19 pandemic have penetrated every layer of our existence, and hope and joy have been elusive and fleeting. As we approach the darkest days of the year, we also anticipate holidays of light that we need so badly. We have been searching for miracles all year: an end to the suffering, to be able to embrace one another again, and to gather without concern. This week Jews all over the world will light the eight-branch Hanukkah candelabra to remember and celebrate the unexpected miracles found in the depths of despair.
Many American Jews considering voting to be a mitzvah, a commandment. It is essential that every vote is counted so that every voice is heard and so that our full-throated democracy can flourish.
This piece was originally published on October 27, 2020 in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette as Mourning, recovering and rebuilding: Two years after the Tree of Life shooting, a community’s response to hate by Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., and Seth Rosen How do you come face to face with murderous destruction and then
Rabbi Joshua Lesser (RRC ‘99) has had a front seat to one of the most joyful spots of our tragic time. With a group of Jewish leaders from different movements and perspectives, he helped create a Facebook group called Dreaming Up High Holy Days 2020.
When COVID-19 hit, synagogues closed their physical doors, pivoting their presence online. Responding to the tensions and conflicts arising from this challenge, Rabbi Nathan Weiner (RRC ‘16) offers a covenental approach guiding synagogue leaders and congregants to navigate these difficult times with integrity, understanding, and generosity of spirit.
Serving as central organization of the Reconstructionist movement
Training the next generation of groundbreaking rabbis
Modeling respectful conversations on pressing Jewish issues
Curating original, Jewish rituals, and convening Jewish creatives
