October 19, 2023
October 12, 2023
October 5, 2023
Dear Friends,
Celebrate with us as we join forces with Congregation Shema Koleinu for an exciting celebration of Simchat Torah this Friday night, October 6th. As we honor Torah in our lives, we will unroll the entire scroll for all to see; we will tour the Torah from start to finish; and we will dance with the scrolls to joyful music. Joyous Oneg follows Services.
L’Shalom,
Steve
September 28, 2023
September 21, 2023
September 7,2023
The Hebrew translation of the phrase, “I am sorry,” is selicha. It is a concept that weighs heavy on our minds during this season.
As we begin to prepare ourselves for the High Holy Days, it is important to take time to consider the actions and behaviors of this past year for which we are sorry. This process will officially begin on Friday night at a special service called, Selichot (which means “apologies”). Through special songs and meditations, we will formally mark the beginning of the penitential season at Houston Congregation for Reform Judaism.
Please join us this Friday Night, September 8 at 8:00 pm as we begin our spiritual preparations for this season. Whether it is through a special worship service or through private moments of introspective contemplation, this is the time to begin to examine our behaviors over the past year and prepare our spirits for the Days of Awe. I pray that the ensuing weeks of personal reflection and introspection will be productive and cathartic for each of us.
Shanah Tovah — Steve
August 30,2023
Dear Friends –
If you looked into the sky last night, you may have noticed a magical moon.
Interestingly enough, this lunar phenomenon has a special name. It is called a “supermoon.” The moon will be massive and bright, but what makes tonight’s even MORE super, is that it will be the second full moon in August. The first full moon of this month happened on August 1. This occurrence is extremely rare.
This full moon has one additional level of meaning. This moon is the full moon of the Hebrew month of Elul. Beautiful as it may be, whenever I see the full moon of Elul, I begin to get very stressed. This moon signifies that there are 15 days until we celebrate the first moon of the new year (Rosh HaShanah).
Enjoy the moon! May its light bring all of us a little inspiration!!
L’Shalom,
Steve
September 2, 2023
August 24,2023
Judaism is a faith structured around relationships, and the synagogue is one of the most common places where those relationships are formed and nurtured. These relationships are established as we learn each other’s stories and meet each other’s families. For newcomers, however, entry points into an already established community can be challenging and intimidating.
At HCRJ, we want everyone to feel welcome, connected, and engaged from the moment they step foot into this building. Join us on Friday night as we extend a warm welcome to the newest members of HCRJ at our annual New Member Shabbat.
Our evening will begin with a wine and cheese reception at 6:15 pm followed by Shabbat services at 7:15 pm. During services, we will install our new Board of Trustees, reminding us that leadership and membership go hand in hand.
L’Shalom,
Steve