

Embracing Jewish Tradition to Process Trauma and Grief
Embracing Jewish Tradition to Process Trauma and Grief jemerman
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Trauma is the response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope, causes feelings of helplessness, and diminishes their sense of self and their ability to feel the full range of emotions and experiences. Many of us in the Jewish community have experienced some sort of trauma or grief due to October 7th, the ongoing conflict, and the global rise in antisemitism.

Resources for Marking the Anniversary of October 7th
Resources for Marking the Anniversary of October 7th jemerman
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These materials include readings, interviews, and more that reflect on the year that has passed since the October 7th attacks.
Poems of Sorrow and Hope
Poems of Sorrow and Hope jemerman
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As I wrestled with my feelings after October 7th, I found that poetry offered me an unexpected outlet. Whether reflecting on the lives lost, the joy of seeing hostages come home, or the comfort I found in our traditions, writing gave me a respite from the complex emotions I was experiencing.
Reform Movement Statement on Israel’s Expansion of the War Against Hamas
Reform Movement Statement on Israel’s Expansion of the War Against Hamas
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We implore Israel to choose life for our hostages, our soldiers, and innocent civilians in Gaza by ending - not extending - this war.
Reform Movement Statement on Starvation in Gaza
Reform Movement Statement on Starvation in Gaza
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In response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the Reform Movement has released the following statement.
Faith, Justice, and Israel: Being Proud
Faith, Justice, and Israel: Being Proud sdolgov
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I was shocked when Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, named me one of 2025’s 18 American Zionist Women You Should Know. I don’t feel I deserve this honor.
A Shabbat Message
A Shabbat Message urjadmin
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This week, as Shabbat approaches, we gather in community to pray for the shelter of peace in Israel and at home.
Lessons from an Israel Trip
Lessons from an Israel Trip jemerman
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Even as I'm writing this piece, I'm missing my Israel trip. It was by far the best trip of my life. It was a month and a half of new experiences, opportunities, and community.
Dear Israel: A Story of Love and Longing
Dear Israel: A Story of Love and Longing jemerman
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In the pages of a hand-drawn picture book, your story first unfolded before me, telling the tale of my parents' first journey together to your distant lands.
Sam Griffin: Aftermath
Sam Griffin: Aftermath jemerman
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Israeli artist Sam Griffin's paintings, forged in the crisis of war, convey the human capacity for healing and hope for a peaceful future for Israel and humankind.