Archive 2011
Moment of Silence for Victims of Shooting in Tucson, Arizona
Saturday's shooting in Tuscon, AZ was a tragedy. May we soon know the day when all Americans and all the world are free from senseless violence. Below please find a note from the White House calling for a moment of silence to honor the innocent victims and to pray for those still fighting for their lives.
President Obama calls for Moment of Silence for Victims of Shooting in Tucson, Arizona
"Tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. eastern standard time, I call on Americans to observe a moment of silence to honor the innocent victims of the senseless tragedy in Tucson, Arizona, including those still fighting for their lives. It will be a time for us to come together as a nation in prayer or reflection, keeping the victims and their families closely at heart."
The President will observe the moment of silence with White House staff on the South Lawn. The moment of silence will be pooled press.
Today, the President has signed a proclamation calling for flags to be flown at half-staff.
What I took away from Eit Ratzon
I am starting in a new pulpit on July 1st, and Eit Ratzon was very helpful. Rabbis Schoenberg and Lebeau emphasized the importance of building relationships and gave specific ways to do so. Among the techniques discussed were understanding personality types, learning the congregation's history and stories, and active listening. I also learned elements of a positive installation, advice on first impressions, and how to manage expectations. I enjoyed seeing over thirty colleagues and synagogue leaders as well. I now have much to share with my lay leaders so we can lay the groundwork for a lasting relationship.
Reflection by Rabbi Michael Pont
New CJLS teshuvot posted
The CJLS recently passed two teshuvot at their last meeting:
- "On Proving Jewish Identity" by Rabbi Reuven Hammer
- "The Status of the Deaf and of Sign Language" by Rabbi Pamela Barmash.
Please click through to read the full teshuvot.
Magen Tzedek Responds to Agudath Israel
The misleading statement by Agudath Israel concerning Magen Tzedek is a misrepresentation of a very important development in kosher food production in America. Magen Tzedek is based on our assertion that biblical and rabbinic law mandate fair treatment of workers (בל תלין), humane treatment of animals (צער בעלי חיים) and care of the earth (בל תשחית and שמירת הארץ) which can be translated into measurable standards applicable to commercial food production. These standards were developed in collaboration with SAAS, an organization acknowledged worldwide for its expertise in ethical certification programs.
In Recognition of 50 Year Rabbis
Azkarat Neshamot 2011
In memory of departed colleagues.
Rabbi Jeffrey A. Wohlberg, rabbi emeritus, Adas Israel Congregation, Washington, D.C.
Cantor Avraham Alpert, Temple Beth Sholom, Las Vegas, NV
Cantor Andres Kornworcel, Midbar Kodesh Temple, Henderson, NV
RA Convention 2011
The Rabbinical Assembly Convention is off to a fantastic start. Watch the plenaries live on Ustream, or follow us (@rabbiassembly and #RAconvLV) on Twitter or Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/RabbinicalAssembly)
Check out the full program and join the discussion.
Welcome to the New Rabbinical Assembly Website
We are proud to launch the new face of rabbinicalassembly.org.
This new site will help us serve you. It paves the way for improved organization of our content and a better experience for our users.
We have many new features and content planned, but in the meanwhile have a look and browse and get to know our new home.
Enjoy!