With our havdala candles barely extinguished, we began hearing the reports. Unimaginable tragedy. We were frozen, horrified. And then a torrent of emotions. Sadness. Fear. Confusion. We have encountered tragedy before. As both Americans and as Jews we are no strangers to mass murder. But, this tragedy in Pittsburgh feels different and we are reacting

From Congregation Tirefeth Beth David Jerualem in Montreal: We undertook a project a few days ago to help pay tribute to the 11 holy victims whose lives were taken in Pittsburgh. A poster with their photos and names was created. It was displayed at our community vigil Monday night, and last night 4-foot tall versions

We are all devastated by the news of the tragic shooting that occurred yesterday in Pittsburgh. The violence and carnage alone is distressing but complicated further by a reminder of the presence of dangerous hatred and prejudice. OHEL Children’s Home and Family Services Trauma Team, led by Dr. Norman Blumenthal, Zachter Family Chair in Trauma

A place of prayer, learning and social gathering, the synagogue is the nucleus of Orthodox life. However, despite its acknowledged centrality, many congregations struggle to find volunteers to aid in its daily maintenance. Take it from one of the most generous volunteers that our community has: the synagogue president. Charged with the administration and maintenance

In a new column, “Stories from the Front Lines,” we hope to share inspiring stories from rabbis and rebbetzins of OU Shuls, as well as moving experiences from our JLIC couples, NCSY advisors, Yachad advisors, and counselors and directors from various OU programs. If you have an incredible story to share about the work you

On Sunday evening, July 23rd, a Yachad participant got the surprise of the summer as she entered a room filled with decorations, food and her friends, who had gathered at Camp Mesorah to celebrate her bridal shower. Tamar Schlanger, from Teaneck,NJ, has been part of the Yachad family since she was a small child. This

Warm, inclusive and extremely affordable, the Jewish community of Northeast Philadelphia is close enough to NY that residents can easily visit friends and family in the tri-state area. The advantageous location, cost of living, and vast Jewish resources in place for residents make NE Philadelphia a perfect choice for Jews tired of city traffic and

Drawn by its solid Jewish infrastructure, Southern grace and hospitality, and affordable cost of living, young families flock to Memphis, TN, an incredibly warm and well-established Jewish community. Learn about Memphis at the OU Jewish Communities Fair on April 30 Lindi Vanderwalde grew up in LA and attended school on the East Coast—both very different

Orthodox communities throughout the US are increasingly providing both physical and spiritual amenities for residents over age 55. “The demographics of retirees cover a wide span of ages from 55 to over 95 years of age with many different needs and interests,” explains Rebbetzin Judi Steinig, Associate Director for Community Services at the Orthodox Union and

Boston is not only incredibly hospitable to college students from all walks of life, but home to a diverse, connected and welcoming Jewish community. The main Jewish neighborhoods—Brighton, Brookline, and Newton, as well as some surrounding neighborhoods like Allston—are all within relative walking distance, and the community’s expansive eruv means you can walk for miles