The Clergy Suite Podcast by Temple Isaiah

Rabbi Joel Nickerson explores a rabbinic interpretation of the Israelite’s gifts in building the Tabernacle and the value our tradition places on the power of brokenness and vulnerability.

Rabbis Nickerson and Frimmer return to the topic of Purim, taking a deeper dive into the topics of Amalek, the donning of creative costumes, and the tradition of excessive drinking. Explore new ideas and practices as you and your family prepare for this annual celebration of survival and silliness.

Link for SoundCloud: More details on how to celebrate Purim at Isaiah go to http://templeisaiah.com/Purim.php

By referencing a challenging passage in the story of the Golden Calf, Rabbi Joel Nickerson explores the value of ‘lifting the veil’ in order to discover the beauty found within the complex narratives of our tradition and our lives.

For many, Purim has been relegated to a children’s holiday replete with cookies, costumes and carnivals. This week, Rabbis Frimmer and Nickerson shake up the story. Purim, like Hanukkah, contains a deeper (darker!) message of how Jews continue to survive uncertainty, vulnerability and arch-enemies that arise in every generation. Learn more about Purim and the accompanying mitzvot (commandments). How can feasting, gift-giving, tzedakah and story-telling help us navigate the threats and opportunities facing Jews in the 21st century?

Link for SoundCloud: More details on how to celebrate Purim at Isaiah go to http://templeisaiah.com/Purim.php

This week’s Torah portion outlines the intricate designs of the Priestly garments, including golden bells along the hemline of the High Priest’s robe. Rabbi Frimmer explores ancient and modern examples of when/how alarm bells signal danger in the life of the Jewish people.

Rabbis Frimmer and Nickerson welcome Rabbi Zoe Klein Miles, Interim Director of the Religious School into the Clergy Suite for a conversation about religious school, Jewish literacy and Jewish identity. Tune in for the first of many conversations about the intersection of tradition and innovation as seen and lived in the halls of Isaiah.

This week, Rabbis Frimmer and Nickerson review Super Bowl LIII highlights, halftime shows, and the Jewish values that guide our every day lives. #eruv #shabbat #maroon5

Rabbis Frimmer and Nickerson welcome Tamar Andrews, Isaiah’s Preschool Director, into the Clergy Suite for a conversation about spirituality, parenting and Jewish practice. Tune in for the first of many conversations about the intersection of tradition and innovation as seen and lived in the halls of Isaiah.

Millions of people have been submitting DNA kits like 23 and Me to discover their ancestry, and some are dismayed at what they find.

On Saturday afternoon, January 19, on the main stage in Grand Park, DTLA, Temple Isaiah clergy were honored to stand with a Faith Coalition of leaders ready to fight for the safety, security and dignity for all of God’s children. Earlier that morning, in the 9 o’clock hour, while Isaians and Jews from across Los Angeles celebrated Shabbat together in an empty lot between Pershing Square and Grand Park, reports began to circulate about antisemitic and anti-Zionist speech coming from 2 speakers on the Pershing Square stage. For those continuing to follow the controversy, or for those just tuning in, Rabbis Nickerson and Frimmer review their role, what they heard and how they interpret the media storm of accusations, allegiances, and proposed next steps.

Link for SoundCloud:

Rabbi Guzik’s response, “Why I Left the Women’s March”: https://jewishjournal.com/online/292559/why-i-left-the-womens-march-l-a/