WORDS THAT BREATHE

Our hearts hold both the loss of URJ Camp Newman AND care for all those facing harm and devastation.

A Kaddish after Gun Violence: For when Humanity Fails Itself

47,000 people are living homeless on the streets of Los Angeles. The Bible mandates we "give shelter to the homeless" (Isaiah58:7). A Reform Jewish congregation with a long history of taking on troublesome social justice issues. Measure H, a ballot measure designed to end homelessness, is endorsed by both democratic and republican leaders.

Why Judaism cannot be anti-abortion

Holding signs of support, we Jews gathered at the local Muslim mosque as part of an interfaith group of the faithful and other community leaders.

I sent this text to my children, on Inauguration Day - 1/20/17

A group of men gathered at Congregation Or Ami's Men's Night Out, and took up Dr. King's challenge. We asked "What are our responsibilities as men to our community, our country and or world?"

Child spree: They were at-risk youth, searching for something new and not risky, to clothe them and keep them warm. We were comfortable suburbanites, seeking something meaningful and momentous, to clothe us in compassion and warm us from the chill of indifference.

Volunteering to pack comfort bags on Mitzvah Day for children entering the foster care system is one step on the path to peace. Show up at Congregation Or Ami on November 6th.

Torah commentary on Nitzavim: Why did the people have to stand up so long?

The history of Touro Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the United States, offers lessons about social justice and religious tolerance that resonate even today. Video written & directed by Seth Front: http://sethfront.com "Shalom Rav" Performed by Nancy Linder: http://nancylinder.com Music by Jeff Klepper & Dan Freelander

When pounding started on the front door, we move quickly toward the door, opening it with caution. In front of us stands “Elijah,” the prophet who one day will announce the Messianic era and the redemption of humankind.

Guest Blogger Rabbi Julia Weisz reflects on taking 8 teens to Washington DC for the L'taken Social Justice Program, transforming their lives and intensifying Congregation Or Ami's teen program.

Our heartstrings resonated with story after story of those touched by mental illness, Alzheimer’s, homelessness, domestic violence, drugs, peer pressure, suicide, and the fear caused by terrorism. We discovered that alone we feel overwhelmed and powerless, but together we can become a source for change toward justice.

Rabbinic Intern Dusty Klass is finding blessing in the in-between. Especially through Bar Mitzvah tutoring, Shoes that Fit, parenting and yahrzeit boards

We run 3 Mitzvah Day projects a year, bringing hundred of people together for sacred social justice work.

Marsha Austin reflects on Mitzvah Day at Congregation Or Ami and the 400+ comfort bags we prepared.

Ken Meyer reflects on Mitzvah Day at Congregation Or Ami and the 400+ comfort bags we prepared.

Teen Abby Gore reflects on Mitzvah Day at Congregation Or Ami and the 400+ comfort bags we prepared.

Jonathan Levy (father of 2) reflects on Mitzvah Day at Congregation Or Ami and the 400+ comfort bags we prepared.