Electives Block 1, 1:45 – 2:35 p.m.
Discussion group
LET’S DISCUSS: What Does It Mean to Be a Jew in the World Today?
Join Rabbi Silk for meaningful small group conversations with fellow congregants as we explore the personal and collective experience of being Jewish at this pivotal moment in history. Together, we’ll reflect on questions of identity, responsibility, and belonging—most notably: Do we carry unique obligations simply because we are Jews?
Come share your thoughts, listen deeply, and engage in heartfelt dialogue.
Art session
Facing Myself: A Creative Adventure in Masks, Identity & Self-Expression
This session is repeated in Block 2. Come to either or stay for both. Join artist Ellen Orseck for an inspiring workshop that delves into the contrast between our outward personas and inner selves. Through the use of pre-formed masks, collage, and painting, participants will creatively explore how we present ourselves to the world—and how that differs from who we truly are inside. No artistic experience is necessary—just bring your curiosity and imagination! All are welcome. Please register in advance to ensure materials are available for everyone.
Musical Contemplation
A string quartet of Rice University Shepherd School musicians will create space for personal contemplation and meditation on the themes of the holiday.
Meditative walk
This session continues in Block 2. Need to stretch your legs after morning services? Join Emanu El members and fitness enthusiasts Joanna Hoffman and Lisseth De Masi for a leisurely walk on the path around Rice University. Walkers can find their own comfortable pace and return to temple for the second elective block or for the Healing Service.
“The Price of Atonement”
Rabbi Oren Hayon
In our age of public scandal and high-profile wrongdoing, disgraced public figures and corporate executives convicted of white-collar crimes frequently make significant charitable gifts, either as part of legal settlements or to clear their own consciences. Can this kind of generosity cleanse a person’s guilt? Can one, in effect, legitimately “buy” atonement by giving tzedakah? Is there such a thing as “tainted money” in Judaism? And may a charity accept these “ill-gotten gains”? Join us to discuss the exploration of these questions in Jewish legal and ethical texts.
Electives Block 2, 2:45 – 3:35 p.m.
Art Session
Continued from Block 1.
Meditative Walk
Continued from Block 1.
Meditation
Ann Friedman
Experience a guided journey of mindfulness, utilizing the themes of the Days of Awe.
“What We Carry Forward, What We Leave Behind”
Lucy Mosbacher
Jewish tradition sees Yom Kippur as Yom HaDin – the Day of Judgment. We will re-frame this as self-judgment or conscious choice-making, transforming Yom Kippur from something that happens to us into something we actively choose.
Goy asher tzedakah – Realizing Isaiah’s vision for a “righteous nation”
Join Rabbi Josh Fixler, Rabbi David Segal, and Dr. Al Kahn for a conversation on what it means to support American democracy with Jewish values in an age of religious nationalism.