It is so easy to offer an opinion - to characterize a situation in a way that aligns neatly with our preconceptions. We are often eager to offer such opinions and less willing to consider the impact they may have on the listener.
This week's Torah portion, Sh'lach L'cha, tells the story o…
Not all of us are ready or able to take advantage of the beauty and richness of our Jewish heritage and its traditions. We all move at our own pace, follow our unique inner voices and seek meaning in ways that we alone can own. This week's Torah portion, B'haalot'cha, asks the question, what…
It was December 1969. I sat with my father, a WWII Navy veteran, my mother, and my younger siblings listening as the first Vietnam era draft numbers were read. I will never forget the anxiety and trepidation I felt as I realized that my life trajectory might no longer be in my hands. I saw t…
We weren't even a nation yet when the Colonies received a majestic copper bell, cast in London, that would become the icon of our country's independence. Inscribed on this bell are the words that are found in this week's Torah portion, B'har-B'chukotai:
"Proclaim liberty throughout all th…
Friends, our Federation is delighted to have Nathan Schachter serving as an intern during the month of May. Nathan is no stranger to our community; many of you may already know him or his parents. For this week's Shabbat message, I've asked Nathan to share his thoughts on Greater Hartford's …
