This week we begin the book of Shemot or “Names.” The Torah opens by naming Jacob’s sons and their families who went down to Egypt. Before telling the story of oppression or redemption, the Torah insists on something deeply human and essential: we are named, and we are known. We...
In this week’s Torah portion, Vayeishev, Joseph shares his dreams with his brothers. He thinks he’s simply telling them what he saw. But they hear something entirely different. His dreams stir up all the old hurts in the family: competition, favoritism, the fear of being overlooked. Their reaction reveals more...
Every song, no matter how beautiful, must eventually come to an end. What gives it meaning is not only the notes that are played, but the silence that follows, the quiet that allows us to feel what lingers…inviting us to pause, to listen differently, and to recognize what endures. In...
This week, we are celebrating the long-awaited release of the remaining hostages in Israel. Our joy is mixed with relief, grief, and prayer, a reminder that even when healing begins, there are still hearts that ache, families still waiting, a longing for peace, and strength needed to heal. Joy and...
As we enter the season of “teshuvah” and return, I have been thinking a lot about the Jewish community I grew up in. I grew up in Sioux City, Iowa. There weren’t many Jewish kids, but our synagogue was a true intergenerational community. I was always invited in, encouraged to...
Preparation takes work. As I get ready to return to school- yes, Organic Chemistry, I’ve been reflecting on how much energy, organization, and intention it truly takes to step into something new. The beginning of a school year can feel full of promise or overwhelming, depending on what support is...
This week’s Torah portion, Eikev, teaches us that gratitude is meant to overflow into blessing and song—You shall eat, be satisfied, and bless” (Deut. 8:10). Jewish life teaches that when our bellies and hearts are full, we sing! Yesterday KI was filled with song, and the heart of our community...
A few years ago, I filled out a simple volunteer form for the Women’s Center of Montgomery County, an organization that helps free victims of domestic violence and other forms of abuse. I checked the box that said “occasional help.” I thought I’d maybe help out here and there, but...
It is with great joy and excitement that we welcome Alyssa (Lys) Davidson as the new Director of Choral Arts at Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel, following in the footsteps of our beloved Hazzan David Tilman, who retired this past year. Lys brings a rich and dynamic background in music education...
This week we read Parashat Kedoshim, which begins with the commandment: “You shall be holy, for I, the Eternal your God, am holy.” These words remind us that holiness is not just a state of being, but a way of living in relationship with one another. Holiness is found in...
