What is the shmita or sabbatical year?
The sabbatical year, shmita in Hebrew, finds it roots in the Torah.
Rabbi Victor S. Appell
I am going to an unveiling. What should I expect?
An unveiling is the ceremony at which a tombstone is erected in memory of one who has died.
At a Jewish wedding, why does the couple stand under a canopy?
The canopy under which Jewish couples stand when they are married is called a chuppah . The chuppah represents the new home a couple establishes through their marriage.
How do I talk to my kids about the current situation in Israel?
A few years ago, an Israeli rabbinic student, Alona Nir, was visiting with Reform Jewish teen leaders. Alona showed the teens a short video of Israeli school children participating in an air raid drill. The lyrics were written by a social worker and the song is taught to young children
Is there a Jewish prayer that can be said on behalf of one’s country?
Yes, Jews always participate fully in the life of the country of which they are citizens. Many congregations include a prayer on behalf of the country in Shabbat services. This prayer, from Mishkan T'filah, is especially appropriate as the United States and Canada celebrate their independence. O Guardian of life
