Rabbi's Week in Review Blog

I had the extraordinary experience of moderating a discussion with artist/author/activist Riva Lehrer about her book Golem Girl. The book is an open, honest memoir of Lehrer’s life as a disabled, queer Jew. This program was part of the Acclaimed Author Series*, which we at Kol Ami co-sponsored with the Jewish Experience program of the J and Jewish Federation.

The predominant feedback from those who participated was how much...Read more...

I recently was on a call co-led by two organizations — T’ruah: the Rabbinic Call for Human Rights and J Street, an organization committed to peace between Israel and Palestinians via a two-state solution. While the discussion generally addressed our desire for peace and the end to violent conflict, the more specific focus was on a bill introduced in Congress.

The bill, H.R. 5344, seeks to increase the chance for effective...Read more...

There are times when a confluence of conflicting events leaves us in a state of emotional limbo, if not turmoil. This past week seemed to be such a time.

I was saddened and somewhat in despair over the diminished prospects for passing meaningful voting-rights legislation, particularly as we celebrate the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Among Dr. King’s achievements was his instrumental role in getting the original...Read more...

With the start of a secular new year, the usual new year’s resolution discussion is pervasive. Pervasive though it may be, I don't know anyone who takes it seriously or feels a sense of regret for resolutions unfulfilled. After all, it’s not Yom Kippur.

Yet, by luck, coincidence or beshert, we do have an opportunity to look at our Kol Ami vision for the future with renewed vigor and purpose. We have accomplished so much in carving...Read more...

This past week, most of my thoughts have turned toward community (and state and national) leader — and my friend — the Rev. Dr. Rodney Williams. Last Friday, Fay and I, along with Lara Steinel, attended the funeral of his beloved wife, Lorianne Williams.

Lorianne died after a long battle against cancer. She was possessed of a fighting spirit, and of kindness and compassion, always caring for others. The Rev. Dr. Williams spoke of...Read more...