Shabbat Blast

The world looks on with anguish as  Saturday’s Earthquake in Nepal  left more than 3,700 dead and untold devastation in its wake.  As this is still a rescue and recovery operation, we remain hopeful that more people will be found alive.

In our double torah portion, Acharei Mot/ Kedoshim, God says to all  the people of Israel: “Be Holy for I am holy.” To be Kadosh (holy), we must mimic God. In our morning services we call God the Doctor of the broken hearted, Harofeh Lishvurei lev. Therefore, to be holy,  we must be healers to those who are physically hurt and those who are and will be recovering from the devastation of this Earthquake.

Our holy land, Israel, continues to be an example to the world showing us how to reach out to those in need. Read about the hospital that the Israeli Defense Forces set up to treat over 200 victims of the Earthquake here.

Federation is responding to this tragedy and has opened an emergency relief fund. 100% of donated funds will go directly to humanitarian aid for earthquake victims. You can donate here.  

We also pray for those who are broken hearted after the death of Freddie Grey in Baltimore. We dedicate our minds and hearts to empathy and strive for greater peace in this world

עֹשֶׂה שָׁלוֹם בִּמְרוֹמָיו, הוּא יַעֲשֶׂה שָׁלוֹם עָלֵיֽנוּ וְעַל כָּל יִשְׂרָאֵל, וְאִמְרוּ : אָמֵן.

May the One who causes peace to reign in the high heavens let peace descent on us and on all Israel, and let us say: Amen.

For more on this Torah portion and to get your kids plugged in, show them these videos courtesy of the Bible Players.

Parshat Acharei Mot

Parshat Kedoshim

Shavuot begins the evening of Saturday May 23 & ends the evening of Monday, May 25. Click the link for more details, and check our calendar regularly for updates and events.

Shabbat shalom,

Rabbi Bernstein