Religion

In 2006, Congregation Emeth in Morgan Hill welcomed Debbie Israel as a part-time student rabbi from the Academy for Jewish Religion in Southern California. When she was ordained, the Jewish temple’s Board of Directors enthusiastically invited her to become their permanent rabbi. Over the next...

I’m grateful to be celebrating our country’s 250th anniversary and for the freedoms and liberties we enjoy. I’m grateful for the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, and the subsequent Bill of Rights and later amendments that outline the freedoms preserved for us.  I’m grateful...

Every day, global headlines remind us of a painful reality. From the Middle East to Eastern Europe, conflicts rage on with no end in sight. Nations fight with advanced weapons, driven by deep mistrust and fear.  History shows us that these external wars rarely bring...

Do you remember the road atlas? For many of us, it was a staple of every family road trip, tucked into the glove compartment or wedged between seats. If construction popped up ahead, there was no warning. If traffic was backed up for miles,...

Each year, Muslims around the world mark the beginning of a new year on the Islamic, or Hijri, calendar. This year the new year will begin on June 17.  While many people are familiar with New Year celebrations on Jan. 1, the Islamic New Year...

As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we reflect on its enduring claim that all people are endowed by their Creator with the rights to “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” Today, we might summarize these ideals as a...

Faith-based organizations here in South Santa Clara County thrive due to a shared sense of justice. For 250 years, all expressions of religion have grown due to support guaranteed by our First Amendment constitutional right: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of...

One of the blessings of being a rabbi is officiating at weddings. I’m currently working with my first second-generation couple. One of the bride’s parents was among the first couples I married, making this a particularly meaningful and full-circle moment. In addition to a marriage...

Spirited debates arise every time the United States has engaged in war during the 21st century. Given the reflexive positions Americans often take during those times of high emotion, one might ask: Is there a rigorous way to consider the question whether to engage...

One of the greatest blessings of our day, particularly in the United States, is our freedom. I will forever be grateful for all who have worked for, defended and sacrificed much to win and preserve our freedom of speech, freedom of religion and our...