Blog

A Scholarly Catholic View of Judaism

I was given this article, A Sacred Obligation, by a Catholic priest many years ago. I love the very rabbinic way in which they ask questions of God in regard to Jews and Judaism. There are some very meaningful questions and answers that may comfort or reassure individuals whose children marry a Jew and raise…

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Where do Latkes come from?

A lovely young Irish woman told her mother that she would be attending her first Hanukkah celebration and latkes would be made! Her mother said, “As I understand it, latkes have something to do with potatoes. You’ll be fine!” I’m not Irish and I’m not particularly fond of potatoes. So my latkes include parsnips and…

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This is Bay Area Jewry – at Temple Isaiah in Lafayette

Photo Essays on the Changing Nature of our Community Temple Isaiah, Lehrhaus Judaica and Building Jewish Bridges present a photo essay exhibition showcasing the range of diversity in our community. The exhibition features 21 intimate portraits of individuals and families from a variety of backgrounds and levels of religious observance — from the North and…

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Museum Trips!

Veiled Meanings From the Collection of The Israel Museum, Jerusalem Clothing exists to cover our bodies, but it can also uncover latent histories and personal narratives. To what extent does our choice of dress suggest individual taste or reflect influences from our surroundings? The variety of costumes displayed in this exhibition attests to the diversity of…

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The Torah Drash, a modern look at ancient words

Each week synagogues read the weekly Torah portion and rabbis seek modern meaning in ancient words.  This week Rabbi Chester, interim rabbi at Temple Isaiah this year, used the portion to look at our modern political situation. It’s worth reading.   Parshat Toldot: Genesis 25:19 – 28:9 I am one who believes that some things…

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