Parashat Toledot: Never again

Chaverim, Water is life. Our bodies are mostly water. Our planet is able to sustain life largely due to its abundant supply of water. The symbolism of water flowing and…

Because they lived, we will too

Chaverim—Beloved Friends,  Normally, when Jews die, we recite a prayer: ‘baruch dayan ha’emet’ – blessed is the True Judge. It’s a way of saying: “the good and the bad they…

Statement on Horrific Synagogue Attack

Dear congregants, We are saddened and horrified by the hate crime and act of terrorism which happened yesterday at the Eitz Chayim – Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, USA.…

Happy pride day Johannesburg

Chaverim—Friends,  This weekend, Johannesburg is celebrating Pride day, and by that diversity in our South African society. While the legal position of people, who identify as LGBTI* in South Africa,…

Lech Lecha: Hear the call

Chaverim—Friends, Our Torah Portion for this coming Shabbat is Lech Lecha. In Lech L’cha, our story focuses on our ancestor Avram. He was a wanderer who heard a divine call…

Parashat Noach: Be a hero

Chaverim—Friends, No doubt about it—Noah was a good person. In fact, the Torah tells us that he was the most righteous person in his generation. But, perhaps that’s like praising…

Yom Kippur isn’t an easy day

Chaverim—Friends,  Yom Kippur isn’t an easy day. Not because of the fasting. What isn’t easy is the affliction of the soul, the practice of going deeply into ourselves and revealing…

Why is it time for a new Machzor?

– by Rabbi Greg Alexander We are very blessed to begin 5779 with a brand new machzor, Mishkan HaNefesh, the Sanctuary of the Soul, a partner to our already beloved…