A Free Pulpit
In 1905, Stephen S. Wise was under consideration to serve as rabbi at Temple Emanu–El in New York City. When he learned that his sermons would be reviewed in advance by the temple’s board of trustees, he withdrew himself from consideration and founded a “free” synagogue where anyone who addresses the congregation can say what he or she wishes.
Since establishing freedom of the pulput, our bimah has served as a platform for some of the most important voices in our community, our country and behind. And our rabbis have a rich tradition of speaking about the defining issues of our times.
Featured Sermons
Do Not Be Indifferent
Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch reflects on the unsettling feeling that world events are driving history. Yet he reminds us of Judaism’s central plea: You must not remain indifferent. “Compassion is not enough,” he says. “It needs…
A Prayer for the Hostages
Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch shares his grief over the crushing loss of the six Israeli hostages and prays for the speedy return of the hostages still alive in captivity.
Waiting
“Our shofar blast is a cry of grief,” says Rabbi Samantha Natov, as we enter Elul heartbroken over the brutal and senseless murder of the six hostages. May they rest in peace. While we wait…
Seeing One Another
In this week’s parashah, God commands, ‘See, this day I set before you blessing and curse.’ Rabbi Dalia Samansky asks, “What does it mean to SEE rather than HEAR?” She explains, “To be rendered invisible…
Finding Hope in Gen Z
Recognizing that “many of the anti-Zionist Gen Z Jews are lost to us,” Rabbis Ammi Hirsch and Tracy Kaplowitz organized the first Reform Birthright trip to Israel in years. “Something wonderful about sharing a bus…
O Captain My Captain
Rabbi Rena Rifkin recalls a late night spent with the 10-year-olds in URJ Eisner Camp’s Bunk 13, answering their “poignant, perceptive, and powerful” questions about Israel. “Our children have so many thoughts and feelings,” says…
Sometimes There Is No Reason
Our Talmudic rabbis spent copious amounts of time theorizing about why the First and Second Temples fell, says Rabbi Dalia Samansky ahead of Tisha b’Av. “But as much as we try to find reasons, we…
Overcoming Fear
Most of the 12 spies Moses sent to scout the Promised Land returned in fear. But unlike the others, Joshua insisted, “We should go forth.” “His hope and faith enabled him to persevere with courage…
Finding the Right Balance
“This week, we were treated to a master class in leadership,” says Rabbi Dalia Samansky. When tasked with anointing a new leader, Moses did not cling to his role or pass it on to his…
The Struggle Within
Hired to curse the Israelites, Balam approaches the Israelites’ encampment, but he unexpectedly utters a blessing… “Moments have the potential to go either way,” says Rabbi Samantha Natov. “Inside all of us are competing inclinations.”…
Sermons From Our Rabbis
Rabbi Tracy Kaplowitz
Rabbi Rena Rifkin
