Episodes
Send us a textRabbi Dana Saroken discusses the three ways we can help foster a love and connection to Judaism for our children and grandchildren. In case you missed it or want to share, here is Rabbi Saroken's full sermon from this past Shabbat at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore.
Published 11/18/24
Published 11/18/24
Send us a textThis week on Havdalah Happy Hour, we’re mixing up more than just kiddush cups! Rabbi Saroken joins us as we continue our debate from last week about burnt bagels and well done pizza. Rabbi Saroken shares her unique connection with airports and we play a quick game of Jewish cemetery trivia. Meanwhile, Emily rolls in with our brand-new Kidz Kart—a game-changer for families attending Shabbat services. Hear how this mobile treasure trove of fun is making visits to our syn...
Published 11/16/24
Send us a textKvetch & Co is back for Season 2 on the Beth El Podcast Network. We jump right into things with these four fabulous moms recapping the highs (and kvetch-worthy lows) of the recent High Holy Days. But it doesn’t stop there! The mom’s take us through their adventures in everyday life, from debating the merits of Starbucks holiday drinks to the highs and lows of shopping with their husbands. And don’t miss the laugh-out-loud stories from their unforgettable trip to an alpaca fa...
Published 11/11/24
Send us a text"Judaism suggests to us in many ways that life is less about reaching a final destination than it is about experiencing the journey along the way..."In case you missed it or want to share, here is Rabbi Steven Schwartz's sermon from this past Shabbat at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore.
Published 11/11/24
Send us a textHavdalah Happy Hour on the Beth El Podcast Network is back and better than ever! This week, Cantor Emily Ellentuck joins us to share her journey from the deserts of Arizona to the rolling hills of Maryland. From adjusting to Daylight Savings Time to marveling at the fall foliage, we cover it all. Plus, we debate the merits of pineapple on pizza and tackle the tragic saga of burnt bagels. And, of course, we reveal this week’s “Shonda of the Week.” Who made the list? Tune in to fi...
Published 11/09/24
Send us a textJumping into Genesis, Rabbi Schwartz and Rabbi Saroken delve into our weekly Torah portion, continuing this week with Lech Lecha. Why did Abraham follow God's call to leave his home? How willing would you be to take a leap and go into the unknown? Tune in next week when we discuss Gomorrah - a city destroyed by fire or a Jerry Garcia song.
Published 11/06/24
Send us a textThis past Shabbat our Ritual Director Ben Kreshtool discussed his recent journey back to Poland.
Published 11/04/24
Send us a textGrab a seat and pour yourself a drink—it’s time for the return of The Havdalah Happy Hour! In our brand new season opener, we’re diving into the highs and lows of this past holiday season. Join us as Ben takes us behind the scenes of his Yom Kippur preparations and shares a few unusual moments he spotted from the bimah. And, of course, it wouldn’t be The Havdalah Happy Hour without our favorite segment: Shonda of the Week! Listen in for stories, insights, and a touch of the High...
Published 11/02/24
Send us a textJumping into Genesis, Rabbi Schwartz and Rabbi Saroken delve into each Torah portion in Genesis, starting with Noach, to explore timeless lessons and challenges relevant to modern life. They discuss the themes of creation and renewal, reflecting on how Noach’s story serves as both a tale of divine judgment and human resilience. We also add a mix of the World Series, Lord of the Rings, and household chores.
Published 10/30/24
Send us a text"How do we begin this year so full of new dreams? How do we find the courage to translate those dreams into a reality?" In case you missed it or would like to share, here is Rabbi Naomi Zaslow's sermon from this past Shabbat at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore.
Published 10/27/24
Send us a textBeth El Congregation's My Story - featuring Tammra Sigler and moderated by Dr. Eyal Bor. Tammra’s paintings and monotypes are part of the permanent collections of The National Museum of Women in the Arts, Washington, D.C., and the Baltimore Museum of Art, as well as many private and corporate collections nationally and internationally. Discover her interesting connection to Beth El Congregation.
Published 10/21/24
Send us a text"We don't know what tomorrow will bring. We don't know if it will feel safe, comfortable or easy to live as a Jew. But, what we do know is that when we focus on the moment, when we allow ourselves to dance, sing, or to give gratitude, then sometimes in all of those things we can experience a sense of joy that's unexpected."In case you missed it, or would like to share, here is Rabbi Dana Saroken's sermon from this past Shabbat at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore.
Published 10/20/24
Send us a text"Prayer enables me to see the beauty in the world. Prayer places me in the story of Am Yisrael, the Jewish people, and reminds me that I'm a link in a chain of an ancient and sacred tradition, and I have a responsibility to make sure it continues."In case you missed it or want to share, here is Rabbi Steven Schwartz's Yom Kippur sermon from Beth El Congregation of Baltimore.
Published 10/14/24
Send us a text"As a people we still have a long journey ahead. We still have countless battles that await us and we might have no choice other than to hold on tightly to the blessings amidst the curses, to smile even as we cry, to feel our strength even when we're scared, and to hold our faith even when we feel doubt."In case you missed it or want to share, here is Rabbi Dana Saroken's Kol Nidre sermon from Beth El Congregation of Baltimore.
Published 10/13/24
Send us a text"We will rebuild ourselves. We will rebuild our relationships. We will rebuild our lives and we will rebuild our world...The Jewish people will be here and will thrive forever."In case you missed it or would like to share with your family and friends, here is Rabbi Dana Saroken's full sermon from the first day of Rosh Hashanah at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore.
Published 10/07/24
Send us a text"Live proudly as a Jew!" During his Rosh Hashanah sermon, Rabbi Steven Schwartz reflects on the difficulty of these High Holy Days, shaped by the horrific events of October 7th, rising antisemitism, and the recent missile attacks on Israel. In case you missed it or would like to share with your family and friends, here is Rabbi Schwartz's full sermon from the first day of Rosh Hashanah at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore.
Published 10/06/24
Send us a textIn case you missed it or would like to share - here is Rabbi Naomi Zaslow's full sermon from this past Shabbat at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore.
Published 09/30/24
Send us a textIn the season 1 finale of The Havdalah Happy Hour, Ben takes us on a journey through his recent trip to Poland, sharing his experiences and reflections. As the High Holy Days approach, we dive into all the preparations and meaningful moments ahead. And of course, we can't wrap up the season without our "Shonda of the Week" – where we shake our heads in disbelief.
Published 09/28/24
Send us a textIn the season 1 finale of Kvetch & Co, we're diving into the world of kid birthday parties and ask the eternal question: To goodie bag or not to goodie bag? And why does it feel like we’re planning a small wedding for a 5-year-old?! Plus, we’re tackling those after-school meltdowns and bedtime sagas. If you’ve ever found yourself Googling "how to …….,” this episode is for you!
Published 09/25/24
Send us a textTorah Talk from this past Shabbat with Rabbi Steven Schwartz, Rabbi Dana Saroken and Naomi Zaslow.
Published 09/23/24
Send us a text In this special bonus episode on the Beth El Podcast Network, we are joined by Cantor Thom King and Dr. Sanford Siegel for a heartfelt conversation about the upcoming Prostate Cancer Walk / Run on September 29 at Towson University.Cantor King shares his personal journey with prostate cancer—his diagnosis, treatment, and recovery—and why raising awareness is so close to his heart. Dr. Siegel explains the life-saving importance of early detection and the advancements in pros...
Published 09/17/24
Send us a textBeth El Congregation presents My Story, hosted by Dr. Eyal Bor. Get to know cellist Evan Drachman as he talks about his career, family and connection to Beth El Congregation. He also entertains us with a few special musical selections. Hear his interesting story about the very special cello he plays and more!
Published 09/16/24
Send us a textAs we get ready for the High Holidays, it’s time to reflect not just on the fun moments, but on our spiritual lives as well. Just like we judge others, we need to take this time of year to judge ourselves with honesty and humility. In case you missed it or would like to share with your family and friends - here is Rabbi Steven Schwartz's sermon from this past Shabbat morning.
Published 09/16/24
Send us a textThe Rabbi's Dog. Even though pets don't speak our language, they somehow become part of our lives and even our spiritual journeys.In case you missed it or would like to share with your family and friends - here is Rabbi Naomi Zaslow's sermon from this past Friday evening at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore.
Published 09/15/24