Mourning in Silence

Rabbi Jesse Olitzky delivers a sermon for Parashat Shemini, reflecting on the recent loss of his grandfather, and why Aaron was silent when he heard of the tragic death of his sons.

Remembering and Re-experiencing

Rabbi Jesse Olitzky delivers a Yizkor sermon on the final day of Passover, reflecting on the command that “in every generation we should see ourselves as if we left Egypt” and what that means for a mourner.

Is a child wise or wicked? It depends on the Parents

Rabbi Jesse Olitzky delivers a Passover sermon examining the four children in the Haggadah and the responses that parents give them.

Seeking Elijah; Becoming Elijah

Rabbi Jesse Olitzky delivers a sermon for Shabbat Hagadol about Elijah in the special Haftarah reading and why we invite Elijah to our seder tables and call on the prophet each and every Saturday night when Shabbat concludes