Religious School Blog

Hakarat Hatov “recognizing the good” is the quintessential Jewish value; as the name of Yehuda (Judah), is rooted in hodah – to give thanks. It is the essence of a meaningful Jewish experience. While one may have all the blessings of goodness (good health, wonderful family, and friends to name a few), without gratitude, one’s journey through life can’t capture the full meaning of appreciation. Giving thanks and finding ways to...Read more...

Koach Hadibbur - Understanding Power of Words. It’s the old adage: It is never what we say, but it is always how we say it.
Words are incredibly powerful. While they have the power to hurt, they also have the power to heal. Words can bring people together, divide a crowd, help you take a stand, and allow you to bring about amazing change. We encourage
our students to use their words to advocate for themselves, and take a stance for...Read more...

This month's Jewish Value is Gevurah, which can be defined as “strength” or “might,” and is the source of accomplishment, creativity, and self-preservation. Gevurah goes beyond physical strength and acts of bravery. Often, our role models are mythical superheroes or sports, music, and entertainment personalities. We need to understand that gevurah includes spiritual courage and the willingness to take risks for the right causes. This...Read more...

Someone with a cape? Fancy superhero suit? Super powers beyond those of mortals? Not really. Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote, “A hero is no braver than an ordinary man, but he is braver five minutes longer.” How can we relate to those historical figures who hold a place in our Jewish life, having been braver for five minutes longer? They are reminders of our own ability to reach farther, do more, and make a real difference in the world....Read more...