On the High Holy Days, we’re told to look back over the past year so that we can avoid repeating our mistakes.  Whereas Moses, in his final speech to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land, chooses to look back over their journey together and rebuke the people to ensure they don’t make the same mistakes twice, this past year has been too difficult to begin with rebuking.  Instead, here is a reminder of some of the most difficult moments of this past year, and the way that our community shone so brightly.

As the first sermon of the High Holy Days, this was given to remind people of all that they faced so courageously in the past year, and to give them the encouragement and hope that whatever the next year brings, we will face it together with strength and confidence. Sermon originally aired on October 2, 2024.

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This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.

A midrash presents the idea that the reason Abraham was chosen to be the first Jew could be compared to a person who sees a birah doleket with God inside.  Birah doleket can mean either a palace on fire, or a palace all lit up; regardless, God is inside and Abraham does not choose to walk by.  It’s a matter of perspective, and so too is the way that each of us sees our country after the election.  Regardless, we have to be like Abraham and not pass by.

After the election, there was such a complete mix of elation and devastation, it just depended on perspective.  This midrash gives us a sense that whatever our perspective is, as the descendants of Abraham, it is still our role to engage. Sermon originally aired on November 8, 2024.

Love this episode and want to show your support? Contribute at: www.ti-stl.org/Donate

For more information about Congregation Temple Israel, visit: www.ti-stl.org

Follow us on social Instagram: www.instagram.com/congregationtempleisrael Facebook: www.facebook.com/templeisraelstlouis YouTube: www.youtube.com/tistl

This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.

In this very first episode, join Rabbi Michael as he examines the ways in which millennials and Gen Z have shown a disconnect to their faith and the state of Israel, the ways that we can learn and be proud of our Judaism, and what we have accomplished.

Originally aired on October 3, 2024, this sermon was intended to give each generation a push to show pride in their faith and to show the dedication to living Jewishly out loud.

Love this episode and want to show your support? Contribute at: www.ti-stl.org/Donate

For more information about Congregation Temple Israel, visit: www.ti-stl.org

Follow us on social Instagram: www.instagram.com/congregationtempleisrael Facebook: www.facebook.com/templeisraelstlouis YouTube: www.youtube.com/tistl

This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.