A Message from Marc

Marc's Message

Marc Baker headshot
CJP's President and CEO, Rabbi Marc Baker, writes and teaches about leadership, community, and civic life, bringing the voice of Jewish tradition to contemporary issues.

 

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The "Pain of Peoplehood"

Over the past two weeks, my conversations with community members have turned to the fear and anxiety that so many are feeling right now. Twice in the past two weeks we have seen violent, antisemitic attacks, first in Washington, D.C., and then in Boulder, Colorado. I keep hearing: That could…

Turning Pain into Purpose

Over these past few days, many of us are once again experiencing a range of emotions that has become painfully familiar.

I am heartbroken over the murders of Yaron Lischinsky (z"l) and Sarah Lynn Milgrim (z"l) outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. They were so young and read…

“You shall be holy”

In many spiritual traditions, holiness is achieved in solitude, through separation from the day-to-day world. Climb a mountain, sit in silence, commune with God.

In this week’s double Torah portion, Acharei Mot-Kedoshim, the Book of Leviticus takes a beautiful turn from its focus on purit…

Commemorating Yom HaShoah

Today we mark Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, a moment to collectively pause and reflect.

With fewer and fewer survivors to tell their stories, it’s up to us to share their testimonials and experiences of the Shoah for future generations. We remember those whose lives were bru…

Wishing you a happy and peaceful Passover

Passover begins this Saturday night, and I am looking forward to Seder in Jerusalem with my family and friends.

It's impossible to reflect on the story of enslavement and liberation without thinking of the hostages — both those who have come home to their families and loved ones, and thos…