Rabbi Victor S. Appell

Rabbi Victor Appell

Rabbi Victor S. Appell (he/him/his) is the Associate Rabbi at Temple Emanu-El of Westfield, NJ. He lives with his husband, Colin Hogan, and their two sons, Avi and Lev.
Shabbat

I Want to Observe Shabbat. Where do I Begin?

Rabbi Victor S. Appell
The best way to begin observing Shabbat is by starting small and adding to your Shabbat observance as you grow more comfortable. If you are interested in ritual, try learning the blessings of the Shabbat table .
Book Cover of Purim Superhero for the Jewish Holiday of Purim
Parenting

Purim Superhero

Rabbi Victor S. Appell
Nate and his classmates are working on their Purim costumes. All the boys in his class are planning to wear superhero costumes, but Nate loves aliens and would like to dress as an alien. Reluctantly, Nate decides to dress like the other boys as a superhero -- until one of his dads reminds Nate of the Purim story.