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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“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…

Rabbi Marc Baker Offers Blessing at Mayor Wu’s State of the City Address

We are honored that CJP's President and CEO Rabbi Marc Baker had the opportunity to offer a blessing at Mayor Michelle Wu’s State of the City Address on March 19, 2025, joining fellow faith leaders in opening the evening.

 

The State of the City is an important moment to reflect on ou…

The Purim Story Today

Dear Friends,

Today is the holiday of Purim, a story that took place 2,500 years ago, but one that also feels too relevant right now. The Book of Esther, which tells the Purim story, is an extraordinary work of literature. It includes satirical commentary on diaspora Jewry, vapid leaders an…