Author Archives: HCRJ

Dear Friends – Last night I had the privilege and honor of delivering an invocation for the Boniuk Center Gala called the Feast of Faiths.  The event promoted the programming of this organization ­– dedicated to nurturing tolerance among people … Continue reading →

Dear Friends – As a result of the continuous grind of our busy schedules, we can become consumed by our perceptions of time.  Think about all the little adages we use to articulate the value and importance of time in … Continue reading →

Dear Friends – The following Hebrew saying is said throughout the Hebrew month of Adar (which is this month): Mi-sh-Nich-nas  Adar Mar-bim   B’sim-cha With the coming of Adar, comes increased joy and gladness. Why do we say this?  Because the … Continue reading →

Dear Friends – One of the most influential programs for young adults over the past decade has been Taglit-Birthright Israel.  This trip, designed specifically for young adults ages 18 to 26 who have never been to Israel, is not only … Continue reading →

Dear Friends – What a crazy winter it has been.  Temperatures fluctuate weekly from the low 30s to the high 70’s.  If your yard is like mine, the plants are very confused.  Our roses are in full bloom and our … Continue reading →

Dear Friends, It may be difficult to believe, but hunger is a huge problem in the United States.  Recent figures indicate that one in seven households are “food insecure.”  Seventeen million families do not know if they will have enough … Continue reading →

Dear Friends – We are so blessed to have Emily working at our front desk while Melissa is away, and today she has proven to be a double blessing for all of us.  Today’s Reflections were crafted by Emily as … Continue reading →

Dear Friends – Our torah portion this week comes immediately after the story of the burning bush.  As Moses steps away from this powerful moment of revelation, he is a changed man.  He has come to understand the God of … Continue reading →

Dear Friends – This week’s Torah portion is the first chapter of the Book of Exodus. It is called Shemot, which literally means “names.” Shemot is an appropriate Torah portion to mark the fact that HCRJ has been doubly blessed … Continue reading →

Dear Friends – Happy Chanukah!  Today is the first day of Chanukah, and tonight we will light candle number two.  From a religious perspective, Chanukah is often a missed opportunity for spiritual growth, as the giving and receiving of gifts … Continue reading →