Meditations
The God of Jewish Spirituality
November 1, 2021
by Kathy Keary
Every time we say “yes” to God, we gather up a holy spark and increase God’s presence in our individual lives and in the world.
Shekhinah: The Indwelling Presence of God
October 25, 2021
By Kathy Keary
Rabbinic mystics use the term, Shekhinah, a feminine Hebrew noun for God, to describe the indwelling of God’s Spirit in the human soul. Monica Brown’s beautiful meditative song “titled “Shekhinah” describes this idea: “Shekinah, Shekinah of God, Presence that is seen and touched, heard and felt.”
The Jewish Holiday of Shabbat: A Time of Refreshment, Part 2 of 2
October 18, 2021
Rabbi Heschel describes Shabbat as "a cathedral in time," a place to enjoy sacred rest, a hallowed break from doing to make room for being.
The Jewish Holiday of Shabbat: A Weekly Time of Refreshment
October 11, 2021
By Kathy Keary
“The sages describe Shabbat as a taste of the world to come – a glimpse into the Messianic time of true peace and lovingkindness.” ~ Rabbi Ted Falcon
Sukkot: A Joyful Celebration in the Jewish Tradition
October 4, 2021
By Kathy Keary
The harvest analogy of Sukkot continues to hold significance as the Jewish people reflect on the spiritual and emotional benefit of the experience of heartfelt repentance and forgiveness offered by the High Holy Days of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur.
Yom Kippur: A Solemn Day of Atonement
September 27, 2021
By Kathy Keary
Rabbi Ted Falcon describes Yom Kippur as a day during which "atonement" becomes "at-one-ment," when Jews “feel an extraordinary sense of release and spiritual unity that comes with forgiveness.”
Celebration of Rosh Hashanah: A Time of Repentance and Renewal
September 20, 2021
By Kathy Keary
We begin our exploration of the contemplative nature of Judaism with a peek at Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, celebrated each September calling all Jews to repentance and renewal.
As We Turn the Page: A Reflection on Our Contemplative Journey
September 13, 2021
By Kathy Keary
We pause to reflect on our interspiritual journey thus far before turning the page to explore the contemplative gifts offered in Judaism.
The Islamic View of the Afterlife
September 7, 2021
By Kathy Keary
Islam paints a hopeful and beautiful picture of the afterlife. Each soul will be greeted by a compassionate and loving God. We will continue to evolve as we grow in intimacy with our Maker.
Living Fully, Dying Well: An Islamic Perspective
August 30, 2021
By Kathy Keary
The real reason we shy away from thoughts of death is not because we are afraid of dying but that we are afraid of failing to live fully. How do we live the remainder of our lives with clarity and intention?