Praying for Peace, But Who Will Stand With Us?

Rabbi Olitzky reflects on the Priestly Benediction in the Torah Portion and the recent violent antisemitic events that have occurred in this country, asking our neighbors to stand with us in order to achieve peace.

Remembering for Joy

Rabbi Olitzky introduces Yizkor for Shavuot by focusing on the juxtaposition between mourning and grief as we remember our loved ones and the commandment to be joyful on the holiday.

When You Don’t Know What to Say

Rabbi Olitzky reflects on struggling to find the right words to say following the escalating violence in Israel and Gaza, between Jewish and Arab Israeli citizens, between Israelis and Palestinians, wrestling with a deep connection to the idea of Israel and a commitment to justice.