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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October 7 – One Year Later

Dear Friends,

This has been a brutal year.

On October 7, 2023, thousands of Hamas terrorists invaded the sovereign state of Israel by land, by air, and by sea. I woke up to a flurry of frantic text messages from colleagues and loved ones — including my child living in Israel. “This i…

A special Rosh Hashanah message from Marc Baker

Dear Friends,

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, the shofar features prominently as a profound symbol in our tradition, one rich with layers of meaning that invite deep contemplation. Rosh Hashanah calls us not only to celebrate, but also to engage in self-reflection and communal…

“Remember, Do Not Forget”

Dear Friends,
 
For many of us here in Boston, we’re transitioning between summer activities and a new school year, which always brings a combination of trepidation and anticipation. We certainly feel this in my house with our oldest child heading back to college, our two middle children …

Tisha B'Av

Dear Friends,

 

Two weeks after the horrific events of October 7, I officiated a wedding.

Standing under the chuppah with the bride and groom toward the end of an incredibly emotional ceremony, it was time to break the glass. What would it mean to break a glass when there were shards of …

I Have Seen Israel

Dear Friends,
 
I just returned from nearly two weeks in Israel, my fourth visit since October 7, this time with two different but equally powerful CJP missions. Similar to my previous visits, this trip was both painful and hopeful, devastating and inspiring. Day after day, we met with extr…