Communal Tragedy

As individuals, we all know pain and loss. It is the rare person who escapes sorrow. But when one of us hurts, others are there to offer comfort. Communal tragedy is different. When something bad happens to us as a community—whether that is a school, a town, a people, or a country—we struggle to figure out how to tend to our own wounds while taking care of each other. Drawing on compassion, empathy, justice, and love, we can bring out the best in each other, and perhaps, find a theology of hope in the midst of despair.

Latest Rituals

A Bridge Unbroken Through Endless Time

“So as we save the scrolls from the fire’s roar, /we save ourselves and so much more.”

torah, wildfires

Open Torah scroll with decorative handles on a table, surrounded by people wearing prayer shawls.

Shabbat Morning, the Day Before the Hostage Release

“There are mystical colors spelling peace…”

captives, hostages, Israel, peace, Shabbat

Dramatic sky with sunbeams breaking through fluffy, dark clouds against a vibrant blue backdrop.

Fire

“We will come together, as we always do, to make fire holy in our lives again.”

candles, loss, Shabbat, wildfires

Close-up of a lit candle with a melting wax drip and soft flame in the background.

Firestorm

“Embers of fire Destroy their path / But carry / shattered vessels of holiness…”

art, prayer, wildfires

Abstract red and black marbled texture with fluid patterns and swirling lines.

Prayer for Los Angeles and the World

A new prayer for those suffering in the Los Angeles area.

climate change, Los Angeles, wildfire

Close-up of dewdrops on a soft, feather-like surface with a blurred, gradient background in blue and green hues.

Through the Flames

“To build again with love and grace and heal this wounded, sacred space.”

forest, hope, wildfires

Bright red blossoms on a tree branch against a clear blue sky.

A Blessing in the Face of Wildfires in Los Angeles

“For the earth that burns, may healing rains fall swiftly.”

climate crisis, fire, wildfire

Close-up of green leaves with water droplets, set against a blurred background.

Tribute to Adar Ben-Simon

“Her light endures where heroes tread…”

courage, Israel, soldier

Close-up of a lighter with a tall, bright flame against a black background.

Thinking of You, Captive

“For more than a year now, / you’ve been with me everywhere…”

captives, hostages, Israel

Corner of a stone building with two windows, featuring a textured, sunlit facade.

Peace – Shalom

“Peace does not look like a dove / or a palm branch in the Old City…”

A white dove flying among trees with yellow leaves in the background.