Spiritual Reflections
Published in the Times Colonist’s Faith Forum and Spiritually Speaking blog
The Times Colonist’s Faith Forum is a weekly column and online blog that provides a platform for different faith groups and spiritual thinkers to share their perspectives and promote dialogue within the community. The column appears in the print edition of the newspaper, while the blog, called Spiritually Speaking, is available online. Both formats aim to offer fresh insights on spiritual and religious topics, fostering understanding and connection among readers.
These articles are 600 words long and will take you 1-3 minutes to read, depending on your reading speed. I hope you enjoy them.
Living with joy and sadness at the same time
Shabbat candlesticks are a constant reminder to me of the importance of honouring the Sabbath and festivals. The customs we follow remind us of sadness in times of joy; they allow us to remain humble and grateful for all that is good in the world.
Kindness in today’s difficult world goes a long way
Holiday mash-ups: Chrismukkah, Hannukmas and Festivus for the rest of us
On December 24th, on the first night of Chanukah, I will be lighting the menorah at my brother-in-law’s home as we sit down for Christmas Eve dinner. My mother and I will bring some kosher food to eat and everyone else will have their traditional turkey dinner. We will all enjoy our family time together.
Our names are history and memory
I didn’t recognize the number on my call display, but it was local so I answered the phone. I expected a wrong number, but instead a cheerful female voice said, “Thank you so much for writing that article in the Faith Forum about Mr. Minenberg.
Light up the darkness!
Historical holidays have visible reminders that allude to the story of the holiday’s origin. For Chanukah, one well-known visible reminder is the nine-branched candle holder called a menorah or chanukiah.
Everything is awesome!
A few weeks ago I was walking through a local mall and a new store caught my eye. It seemed to...
Coming together through rituals that unite
After all that has happened and is still happening since October 7, 2023, you might think that this year Jews around the world had a very sad Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, rather than a time of celebration, reflection and renewal with family, friends, and community.
A High Holiday summary: Infusing every day with holiness
This week marks the end of the Jewish High Holidays for 2014 (5775 in the Hebrew Calendar). We...