Shmini Atzeret (Yizkor) 5772 It always seems strange to me that we say Yizkor on the three pilgrimage festivals. Historically, it hasn’t always been this way. Yizkor originated in the middle ages to commemorate those who were slaughtered by marauding bands during the Crusades. Back then it was recited only on Yom Kippur; but, eventually, [...]
Yizkor – Shavuot 5771 June 9, 2011 Yarmulkes are a big business these days. I remember when I was younger, when you went to a bar mitzvah or a wedding, someone would hand you a cheap white or black taffeta kippah that never quite fit on your head correctly. Everyone at the simcha looked like [...]
When we remember our loved one, we should remember them for all they were and all they meant to us. Yizkor – 8th Day of Pesach 5770 On the 8th day of Pesach, we read a selection from Parashat Re’eh. This section of Deuteronomy is clearly appropriate because it discusses the observance of Passover. It [...]
Yizkor teaches us that the relationship with our loved ones does not end with their departure from this world. There is always an opportunity for another conversation. For the first three years of rabbinical school I felt like a fraud. I was a good student, got good grades, and took all the required classes, but [...]
On the Jewish holidays we often remember memorable moments with loved ones who are no longer at the table. Despite our mourning, God beckons us to celebrate the gifts we have in our lives. Yizkor – 8th Day of Pesach 5769 – April 16, 2009 It was exactly a year ago yesterday that I interviewed [...]
Rabbi Salomon Gruenwald has served as the Associate Rabbi of Congregation HEA in Denver, CO since his ordination from the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies in Los Angeles in 2008. He also serves as a volunteer chaplain with the Denver Police Department. He and his spouse, Melanie Gruenwald, have three children.
