Sharing Out Light
Newsletter December 19, 2022 Together, we're #keepingitsacred... |
Did you know that a Hanukkah menorah isn't kosher (ritually fit for use) if it's candle holders are separated? So, no matter what yours looks like, a defining feature of the hanukkiah (as it is technically called) is its base, connecting one candle holder to the next. From this, we learn that the lights have to be connected to transmit the hope, light, faith and joy of the season.
Each night of Hanukkah, which began last night, we add another light and another light to the table. And in doing so, we connect light to light. This is why this holiday is known as Chag HaUrim-- the Festival of Lights. Each emits light on its own, but together, this is where we really shine.
In the days of December leading up to Hanukkah, we shared some of the amazing things our members had to say about this community. How it is a place of acceptance, belonging, warmth, and love. How it is a place we love! (read more below). But why is it this way? Because each of you, each of us, are bringing our light to the table. As if bringing our light to the menorah this season. Magnifying all of the best parts of being human and living in connection with others around the world.
And, this season, we have something else to celebrate. Keeping It Sacred is now officially bringing our light to the menorah of the Union for Reform Judaism (urj.org). That's right! We have now been accepted as the URJ's newest member community! If you are unfamiliar with the Union for Reform Judaism, the national organization that unifies the Reform Jewish movement, the president, Rabbi Rick Jacobs, shares,
"Our Judaism is for everyone. It is egalitarian, intellectually rigorous, joyful, spiritual, pluralistic, and constantly evolving. It is soul-elevating spiritual practice, life-altering Torah study, courageous practice of tikkun olam, loving care for our community, especially the most vulnerable — that is what we are."
As you can see, this mission really aligns with our own.
And with our admission to the URJ, we can share all of the great ways we are creating a community of care, meaning, and spiritual wellness with other member congregations and communities. We can shine our light among colleagues in an international community. In return, we can connect over resources, best practices, and partnerships with those who are also committed to this kind of progressive Judaism.
As individuals, and as a community, we are committed to sharing our light with the world. Keep shining!
This is how we are #keepingitsacred… Rabbi Heather Miller Founder, Keeping It Sacred |
The above is an excerpt from a Keeping It Sacred newsletter. If you want to read the entire newsletter or any from our archives, please head over to: keepingitsacred.com/news And if you'd like the newsletter delivered to your inbox every week, please share your name and email address in the fields at the bottom of the page in the purple boxes. Thanks for your interest, and thanks for #keepingitsacred… |