18 Elul

Pirkei Avot teaches that you are not obligated to complete the work of perfecting the world, “but neither are you free to abandon it” – encouraging perseverance in pursuing goodness…

17 Elul

Our sages teach, “Not study but practice is the main thing” – reminding us that learning must lead to action, and we truly live our values through what we do.…

16 Elul

Jewish tradition teaches that worship is only meaningful when it reflects our commitment to be just and kind in our dealings with others. #highholidays2025 #Elul #worship #ethics

That Verse in Deuteronomy: Reclaiming a Torah of Pride, Not Pain

Reclaiming a Torah of Pride, Not Pain

A single verse in this week's Torah portion, Ki Tetzei, has been used for centuries to exclude and shame transgender and queer people. But is that what the Torah truly intends? In this Pride Shabbat sermon, Rabbi Adrian Schell explores our tradition as a vast, ancient house we inherit—a place of beautiful, light-filled rooms, but also difficult corners. By bravely entering one of these "cold rooms" and examining the notes left by our ancestors like Rashi and Maimonides, we discover that the verse's original purpose was not to shame identity, but to forbid deceit and prevent harm. This sermon reframes a weaponised text as a call for authenticity and challenges us to ensure our "house of tradition" is a warm, safe, and welcoming home for all, illuminated by the central truth that every person is created in the image of God.

15 Elul

Jewish tradition teaches that we are stewards, not owners, of creation – entrusted to preserve and protect the Earth for future generations. #highholidays2025 #Elul #environment #stewardship

14 Elul

Jewish tradition calls on us to participate in tikkun olam, the repair of the world, through acts of justice and compassion – taking responsibility to improve our society for everyone.…

13 Elul

13 Elul

Jewish tradition urges us to “seek peace and pursue it” – reminding us that peace is not passive, but something we must actively strive to achieve. #highholidays2025 #Elul #peace #peacemaking

12 Elul

The prophet Micah teaches us to “do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God”– a timeless call to practice justice and compassion with humility. #highholidays2025 #Elul #compassion #humility…

700 DAYS

700 Days - Segev Kalfon

There are numbers that feel heavy to say, heavy to hold. This Friday marks 700 days. Seven hundred days since families were shattered and hostages were taken into captivity in…

11 Elul

11 Elul

The Torah insists, “Justice, justice shall you pursue” (Deuteronomy 16:20)– a double emphasis highlighting our sacred obligation to seek justice and fairness for all. #highholidays2025 #Elul #justice #fairness