Speaking - Writing - Music
“What does it mean to wrestle and grapple and to prevail? It means to come to terms with our authentic selves and to feel and know that we are sacred and divine.”
Opening Niggunim & Words of Welcome
Brandeis Reform Chavurah – 5786
I believe opening niggunim set the tone for prayer that’s shared, not performed. With every service, we have the opportunity to begin anew. I believe in creating an even praying field — where every voice, every heart, and everyone has a place.
These songs and words are offered with deep gratitude to Avi Randall, Rabbinic Intern Morgan Figa, Samantha Przybisiki, and Morgan Collens for helping bring that spirit of openness and song to life.
Un’taneh Tokef (Traditional)
Brandeis Reform Chavurah 5786
May we stand in awe. May we feel the weight of judgment and the possibility of mercy. May the song carry us deeper into this day.
Un’taneh Tokef (traditional melody, arrangement by Noah Aronson & Cantor Shanna Zell)
Brandeis Reform Chavurah – Yom Kippur Morning 5786
Asher Yatzar (Dan Nichols)
Brandeis Reform Chavurah – Yom Kippur Morning 5786
A soulful reflection on gratitude and the miracle of being whole, performed as part of Brandeis Reform Chavurah’s Yom Kippur morning service.
Music by Dan Nichols
Piano: Avi Randall
Vocals: Zac Gondelman, Morgan Collens, and Samantha Przybisiki
Todays Torah: Rabbinic Lessons on Belonging
We’re taking belonging from a buzzword to a tool we can use in our daily lives. We’re here to answer two questions. What is belonging? And, how do we operationalize it?
Dear Cantor Sufrin & Cantor Zell
True blessings only happen when we get our hands dirty, when we hold each other accountable, when we work together, and when we have contact with who we are blessing. May we continue to alongside each other for years to come — embracing one another with compassion and collective responsibility.
A Call to Courage - A Call to Pride
On this Shabbat filled with pride, it is my personal prayer that each and every one of us, just like Jacob, look inward and grapple and see how we can show our pride — this is our call to courage, our call to pride. Shabbat shalom everyone and happy happy pride.
Creating Sustainable Debate: The Importance of Approach
“When in debate or conflict, may we always approach one another with trust in our hearts. May we listen to each other’s fears and empathize with them. And with this understanding, may we grow to know how all things are relative. So, the next time we find ourselves standing on the shore, remember this, וַיִּגְּשׁ֤וּ “Vayeeg’shoo” -- the easiest way to cross is to swim nearer.”
The Blame Game
I still wonder what words they used when they cried out to God. Why did God decide to listen this time? And you know what I REALLY think? I actually don’t think they were crying out in blame. I think when they cried out, what they were really saying to God was: “We need a little help.” And maybe that’s why God answered... because they weren’t placing blame, they were just seeking connection. May we too seek connection, resist the urge to blame, and slow down-- even if it’s just for a little bit.
