By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
For me, the most moving moment of the Passover seder is when we remove drops of wine – the wine that symbolizes joy and gladness – from our cups while reciting the plagues that occurred before the Israelites were released from slavery. We are reminded that, eve…
By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
In March, I visited the audiologist who handles my cochlear implant to check on my progress with the new CI, which I’ve had for seven months. (My original one is no longer supported by its maker, much as what happens when you need a new version of a cell phone or…
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” – First amen…
By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
Do you think two Jews should have the right to marry? This is not a trick question. I’m not asking about LGBTQ marriages or anything controversial (at least, not yet). What I want to know is simple: Are you willing to risk that a governmental official will refuse…
By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
Friday, February 24, was a particularly difficult day. A friend texted me that her grandson had had another seizure. Fortunately, he was fine after a short visit to the hospital, but his parents and grandparents are still shaken and upset. Shortly after, I learned t…
