Rabbi Lara Rodin reflects on the tension between joy and pain in Israel’s recent events, urging people to hold multiple truths with empathy to help rebuild a more compassionate world. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services February 1, 2025. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.

Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the remarkable resilience and strength displayed by individuals who endure unimaginable traumas. He emphasize the importance of hope, the ability to recover spiritually and emotionally after profound suffering. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services January 25, 2025. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada

Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the deep value of redemption and the moral responsibility to protect human dignity, rooted in Jewish tradition and history. He connects these principles to current events, emphasizing the importance of hope, justice, and compassion in the face of hardship. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services January 18, 2025. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada

Rabbi Robyn Fryer Bodzin reflects on the story of Joseph and Jacob, highlighting the tension between visibility and hidden identity. She explores Joseph’s journey of assimilation into Egyptian culture and his eventual return to his Jewish roots, connecting this narrative to the importance of living openly and proudly as Jews in contemporary times, even amidst challenges. Excerpt from Shabbat morning services. September 28, 2024, Beth Tzedec Congregation, Toronto, Canada.

Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the importance of leadership, responsibility, and representation within the Jewish community. He emphasizes that in today's connected world, everyone in the community shares the responsibility of speaking and acting on behalf of the Jewish people. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services January 4, 2025. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.

Rabbi Lara Rodin reflects on Hanukkah as a profound symbol of resilience, courage, and hope in the face of adversity. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services December 28, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.

Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on the power of prayer to interrupt cycles of immorality, foster gratitude, and align actions with higher values. He emphasizes that consistent practice of blessings can cultivate habits of holiness, recalibrate moral compasses, and infuse everyday moments with mindfulness and compassion. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services December 21, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.

Rabbi Steven Wernick reflects on how Jewish tradition consistently values peace, ending prayers and teachings with aspirations for harmony. Excerpt from Shabbat Morning services December 14, 2024. Beth Tzedec Congregation Toronto, Canada.