Endless Blessings – Toldot and Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving week's Torah portion, Tol’dot, begins with the birth of Jacob and Esau (though not in that order), continues with the tale of jealousy between the brothers, and ends with the deception of Isaac by Jacob. It contains the destructive themes of competition and jealousy between siblings, favoritism by parents, and deception among family … Continue reading Endless Blessings – Toldot and Thanksgiving

Beginnings and Endings – Simchat Torah

Everything has a beginning and an end. Including Simchat Torah, although not in that order. The festival of Simchat Torah (Rejoicing in the Torah), which falls this year on October 21st [October 22nd for traditional Jews outside Israel], marks the end of the annual cycle of Torah readings. It also marks the beginning of the annual cycle of Torah … Continue reading Beginnings and Endings – Simchat Torah

A genetic mutation, Yizkor Service, the Sound of Music, and more!

You may be wondering why you haven’t heard from me in awhile. Well, I have been immersed in an extraordinary time of renewal... Health! It started in January, when I learned that I carry a common genetic mutation called MTHFR and began taking L-methylfolate, the simple cure. About a month after I started taking it, … Continue reading A genetic mutation, Yizkor Service, the Sound of Music, and more!

Shabbat Live or Later WITH YIZKOR this Friday (4/26/19)

Grab a nosh and a bottle of wine [you know, for kiddush], curl up in your pajamas, and join us this Friday evening 4/26 for Ahava's next livestream Shabbat service - Shabbat Live or Later! This service will include Yizkor (a memorial service), traditionally chanted 4 times each year including on Yom Kippur and at the … Continue reading Shabbat Live or Later WITH YIZKOR this Friday (4/26/19)

A Zisn Pesach! A Sweet Passover to you and yours…

“Remember this day, on which you went free from Egypt, the house of bondage, how Adonai freed you from it with a mighty hand.” Exodus 13:3 Thoughts on freedom as Pesach (Passover) approaches: "The message of Passover remains as powerful as ever. Freedom is won not on the battlefield but in the classroom and the home. Teach your … Continue reading A Zisn Pesach! A Sweet Passover to you and yours…