Israeli Holidays

In Israel, Memorial Day directly precedes Independence Day and both are observed with a seriousness of purpose. Memorial Day is shaded with sorrow and introspection, while Independence Day is marked by raucous celebration. In America, we can find ways to connect with these themes and to share in the mourning and celebration.

Latest Rituals

A Petition During These Days of Renewed Antisemitism

A prayer for understanding when faced with antisemitism

top half of the face of a woman with brown hair and gold eyes looking up

Prayer for Israel’s Present and Future

“May we remember that there is no future for any of us without all of us.”

view from above of the mediterranean coast at Jaffa

Dancing for Peace to the Traffic Light Nigun

“we dance into / promised land”

Israel, music, peace

close up of traffic light at yellow in front of brick building

Shekhinah’s Lament

“In a field of lilies trampled by warriors / the Shekhinah weeps”

peace, Shekhinah, war

close up of light yellow-white lilies with black background

The Harp

“The stones are full of mystical light”

Israel, Jerusalem, peace

view of jerusalem western wall sunlit day with blue sky

Daughters of Tu B’Av

Chant and poem for Tu b’Av

A woman with long hair spins joyfully outdoors, arms outstretched, with a serene landscape and sunset in the background.

Bridge to Peace

“Open our hearts and minds as wide as canyons”

interfaith, peace

Hands gently holding a pink flower.

A Prayer for the Leadership of Israel

Prayer for Israeli leaders to work toward peace

Flag waving at sunset on a rocky hilltop, with a dramatic sky and sun rays in the background.

What I talk about when I talk about love

Poem by Israeli peace activist on war with Gaza

Israel, Palestine, peace

Silhouette of a person holding a flowing scarf against a vibrant sunset sky.

Across the Wadis: In Gratitude for the Ceasefire

“The detritus of hatred lies scattered.”

Israel, Palestine, peace

Person walking on a rocky desert landscape under a cloudy sky with hues of orange and purple at sunset.