Originally published in RJ.org. In the new home of the National Museum of American Jewish History, a Women Cantors’ Network postcard shares space in a display case with one of Bella Abzug’s hats. Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined such a pairing. Likewise, in early 1982, neither could I have imagined the founding of the Women […]
30 Years of the Women Cantors’ Network
Founding the Women Cantors’ Network by Deborah Katchko Gray Having grown up in a cantorial family, I was used to hearing the sounds and issues surrounding the cantorate. My father, son of the legendary Adolph Katchko (1886-1958), was a wonderful part-time cantor in his own right, with a full-time liquor store — he used to […]
Tomorrow’s Synagogue Today- Let’s Learn More!
At a recent day of learning for members of the Cantors Assembly, Rabbi Hayim Herring shared his thoughts on “ Tomorrow’s Synagogue Today”. It is also the title of his book, focusing on “creating vibrant centers of Jewish life”. I found it fascinating as I have grown up in synagogues as the daughter of a cantor and […]
Domestic Violence and Dina
When I was asked to give a d’var Torah for the Clergy Task Force, I hoped I would have something relevant to share given our focus on domestic violence. Looking at the Torah portion last week, Vayishlach, the story of Jacob transitioning to the story of Israel and the rape of Dinah and subsequent slaughter of […]
My Experience with Limmud- To Learn
Limmud is an international movement of study and friendship, of Jewish identity and identification. It literally means- “ to learn” and was founded 30 years ago by four educators in l980 as a retreat attended by 70 participants. In 2012, it drew over 2600 Jews from all over the world, the longest Limmud experience, but […]
A Survivor’s Story to Remember
The Jewish Virtual Library on the internet describes the Jewish community of Kromeriz among the oldest of Europe, beginning in 1322 when one Jew as allowed to settle in the town. Moving ahead to 1940 when anti-Semitic laws flourished ending with the an attempt by the Nazis to blow up the synagogue , the community […]
Bin Laden, Hitler and Yom Hashoah A Day of Remembrance
Having just returned from Los Angeles from an incredible evening dedicated to remembering the Holocaust, I am struck by the metaphors today. Yes, today we are aware of the brave capture and elimination of one of the worst anti-Semites in our time, Osama Bin Laden- announced on Yom Hashoah, the same day in l945 that […]
Stitching n Kvitching A Cantor’s Life Tallit Making 101
This is my very first blog- I should say ” Shehecheyanu!” I have always enjoyed writing and will be sharing several essays I’ve written over the years, as well as thoughts on the cantorate, and my love of stitching homemade tallesim or tallitot using huck embroidery. Being creative is part of being a cantor. Too […]