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The concept of circumcision is both a deeply powerful ritual practice and a profoundly troubling remnant of a different time. 

The thought of saying Hebrew prayers over the cutting of a baby’s flesh seemed truly barbaric to me. I wondered, “If mothers had the power to design Judaism, would circumcision have played such a central role?” 

Elections provide us with an opportunity to organize our personal values and community commitments. The act of voting can be a first step toward becoming the engaged citizens we aspire to be.

Looking at a baby girl and feeling the joy of celebrating who she is and who she will become are wonderful experiences. A welcoming foot washing ceremony is one way of concretizing that joy.

Pun intended.  The popular press has recently reminded contemporary Jews that the continuation of brit milah (ritual circumcision), remains a challenge…and if you don’t believe me, ask any Jewish parent expecting a new son in the near future.

The women who attended my blessing circle couldn’t believe the news when they heard it. I daresay everyone felt like they had a little bit to do with it—I certainly think they did.

We don’t want Yom Kippur to leave us in a slump, struggling to pick ourselves up.  Instead, we must embrace joy so that we may restore balance in the world, in our community, and within ourselves.

It is too easy to find fault in others. How can we be more honest with ourselves so that we can make corrections to our decisions? 

The One of Infinite Possibilities calls: Return to me and I will return to you (Zecharia 1:3)

What if we could derive a practice from the story of the King in the field—breathe life into it and into our own souls? How can we, in the midst of our busy, self-conscious lives, find the cozy, loving intimacy with God that is hinted at in this tale?