In recognition of Shabbat Shuvah, and in memory of Ruth Bader Ginsburg Rabbi Sara Mason-Barkin, 9.25.2020 Shabbat Shuvah Congregation Beth Israel, Scottsdale, Arizona Dear Sela Penina, my daughter, my girl: Tonight is Shabbat Shuva, a Shabbat of turning — a time for turning inwards, for reflection on who and how…

We rise from our mourning as we continue to grieve. There is a distinct, careful rhythm to Jewish mourning rituals. The days between death and burial are called aninut. These days are devoted tzorchei hamet , the needs of the one who has died. As mourners, we are exempt from…

How do we go forth? We wake up and it’s a day like any day. Hit snooze. Maybe once, maybe twice. Still bleary eyed, Josh and I get everyone fed, dressed, teeth brushed. Maybe you start your day by taking the dog for a walk, or reading the paper. Maybe…

May the one who makes peace in the heavens make peace for us, for all Israel, and for all the world. At first, the world was tohu v’vohu. Chaos and void. Empty and dark. God looked out at the vast nothingness, and began to build. Darkness from light…

A Yom Kippur Message I didn’t grow up talking about God. I did grow up attending services regularly, going to Hebrew school, singing in the junior choir, attending youth group — all activities that were easily available to me not only as the rabbi’s kid, but also as an involved…

A Rosh Hashanah Message Join me on a mental journey to your favorite Jewish deli. You could open the expansive menu, but I know you’ve got your go-to dish. Rabbi Kahn would order Pastrami on Rye with the cole slaw on the sandwich, but the dressing on the side. Cantor…

Using our Greatest Gifts This drash was delivered several years ago. I offer it again today in honor of Shavuot, and our 15 year wedding anniversary. My husband and I are blessed to be celebrating our eleventh wedding anniversary tomorrow. The last eleven years feel at once like a moment…

Welcoming the Jewish Adjacent Do you remember those hard candy hearts with a message printed on them? You’d get a box of them for Valentine’s Day, and choose which message to give to which friend. For your bestie, maybe it says ‘cutie pie,’ or for an acquaintance, it says ‘stay…

A tribute to my Zaide on his 11th Yartzeit My Zaide was tall. Or at least, I remember him that way. Marking his 11th yartzeit this week memories of him are close at hand. Sitting in his armchair with a huge book. Long talks about the future, or the news…