The biblical Book of Numbers recounts the trials and tribulations of the Israelites as they wander the wilderness and begins, intriguingly, with a census. It raises questions like “who counts?” and “what do you do when the path forward is difficult and uncertain?” In this episode (recorded at Temple Beth-El’s virtual Shabbat morning gathering on May 23, 2020), Rabbi Knopf and special guest Jason Kamras (superintendent of Richmond Public Schools) tackle these and other issues, like inclusion and equity in Richmond public schools and serving the intellectual, spiritual, and physical needs of students and families during a crippling pandemic.

“Socially Distant, Spiritually Close” is recorded during virtual gatherings of Temple Beth-El in Richmond, Virginia, and is produced by Dr. Gillian Frank. Our theme music is composed and produced by Stephen Frost. Our cover art was designed by Judith Rushin, using a photograph by Miriam Aniel. These teachings, presentations, and conversations reflect the dynamism, warmth, passion, and kindness of Temple Beth-El in Richmond, VA.