"You can either choose to try to fix a broken system, or you can build what you have been dreaming of anew," this was the wisdom I heard from Black Lives Matter-LA co-founder, Professor Melina Abdullah. She makes decisions everyday about what is capable of being fixed and transformed, and what is better to be constructed afresh. 

And one of the lessons of yesterday's holiday known as Tisha B'Av, where Jewish communities around the world commemorate the destruction of the Second Temple, is that new growth is possible out of the rubble. This is what Rabbi Yohanan ben Zakkai believed when he and others replaced the old sacrificial cult system in the Temple with the new rabbinic system-- the new system was more egalitarian, merit based, and kept Torah at the center. And best of all, didn't involve animal slaughter! They reimagined a new way, and they built it. And it was good.

For the first part of my life as a rabbi, I spoke with people:

• who had been shut out of Jewish life because they couldn't afford it,
• who had been the targets of scripture weaponized against them,
• whose only option was to join a community that was judgmental about their observance levels which degraded and disempowered them; and I spoke with those
• who felt that the community offerings around them were wholly irrelevant because they didn't engage in the deep questions of life.

I wondered, "What if the way things were set up didn't have to be this way? What if it could be constructed differently from the ground up?" People had approached me (you know who you are) for years to start a new thing, but I wasn't ready. 

After a decade years of this however, I realized that it was time to roll up my sleeves and build the community of our dreams, together. One where people's life experience is held as sacred as the ancient texts of our tradition. To build that example of a place that is welcoming to all, text centered, content based, tenderhearted and justice-seeking at the same time. One that was accessible, relevant, and empowering, meaningful and joyful.

The pandemic forced us all to reevaluate our priorities, way of life, and way of doing things. And, this time, together, we chose, as Gandhi encouraged, to "build the world we wished to see." I am so proud to partner with each of you who share the vision for a fresh, new sacred space where we can each learn & grow, build & be built by our community. 

Please take a look at the programs included below and boldly join us! If you'd like for me to pair you up with someone I think you'll connect with and enjoy (to attend events together) please let me know.

We have educational opportunities to engage in ancient debates about the big questions in life, a full compliment of High Holy Day programming, and our new monthly Shabbat Services. And these are just our LIVE Zoom events! Find a ton of other content at keepingitsacred.com as well. And keep the ideas flowing! Everyday is an opportunity to create.

Together we are #keepingitsacred...

Rabbi Heather Miller, 

Founder, Keeping It Sacred

REGISTER FOR HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMMING

Honor the most sacred days in the Jewish Calendar with your Keeping It Sacred community! Our theme this season is "To Begin Again..." As the world re-starts life after the effects of a devastating global pandemic, we consider: what kind of life do I want to begin again? What matters most? What do I want to do with my one precious life?  Join us for comprehensive communal experience with insights from Rabbi Miller, music from Cantorial Soloist Rachel Wolman, reflective space with Kimberly Dueñas from Jewtina y Co., and so much more!

Keeping It Sacred programs are free for all because we uphold the value of keruv/accessibility; voluntary financial contributions to help offset the cost of these programs are greatly appreciated. Invite your friends and family! Register HERE:

CONFIRMATION CEREMONY

Confirmation is a ceremony that confirms commitment to Torah study, depth-seeking, and engagement with community. We will gather to lift up this sacred activity that provides deep life purpose and meaning.

Honorees:

All members of the Keeping It Sacred community are encouraged to participate in this ceremony- together, let's honor your engagement! Please reserve a ticket HERE, and then find more information on participating in the service here: bitly.com/KITSConfirmation2021Form. You will be celebrated and receive a beautiful, custom-made original artist-commissioned certificate commemorating this joyful day. This is an INVITE YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY event-- all are welcome!

Honored Guests/Friends & Family:

All are welcome and encouraged to attend this ceremony celebrating our beloved community members. Come meet honorees and hear why folks love to engage. 

Keeping It Sacred programs are free for all because we uphold the value of keruv/accessibility; voluntary financial contributions to help offset the cost of these programs are greatly appreciated.

Please join in this momentous celebration!

MONTHLY SHABBAT SERVICES WITH KEEPING IT SACRED

Give yourself the gift of space to reflect and rejuvenate with monthly shabbat services. Rabbi Miller and Jeffrey Silverstein will lead the community with Jewish thought and sacred song the last Friday of every month starting THIS MONTH. Together, we will lift up anniversaries, birthdays, and honor remembrances of our loved ones.

Please email Rabbi Miller your important dates so we know when to honor those sacred times at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com.

Keeping It Sacred programs are free for all because we uphold the value of keruv/accessibility; voluntary financial contributions to help offset the cost of these programs are greatly appreciated.

And, please mark your calendars for 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET on 7/30, 8/27, 10/29, 11/26, 12/31, 1/28, 2/25, 3/25, 4/29, 5/27 and 6/24, and register to join us HERE.

A BIT ABOUT... SHABBAT

In honor of our starting monthly communal Shabbat Services with Keeping It Sacred, we thought we'd highlight here Rabbi Miller's episode of "A Bit About...Shabbat." Learn some of Rabbi Miller's favorite parts of Shabbat and other significant holidays by clicking the link below:

WOMEN RABBIS TALK PODCAST

"Women rabbis talk with other women rabbis about being women rabbis" on the Women Rabbis Talk podcast; the episode highlighted this week features our own Rabbi Miller! Hosted by wonderful leaders, Rabbi Emma Gottlieb and Rabbi Marci Bellows. Check it out HERE!

SACRED GEOMETRY

7/25 Sunday at 10am PT/ 1pm ET, guest lecturer Rabbi Jordan Parr will share with us insights into the sacred geometry of the mystical tradition of Kabbalah. Whether you're into math or not, this class will get you to think about deeper truths of the universe. Please register at: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1. 

ROSH CHODESH RACIAL JUSTICE REVIEW

Keeping It Sacred's Rosh Chodesh Racial Justice Review will provide structured space to explore the nature of systemic racism from top thinkers, and help us to reflect upon the ways we participate in, and are impacted by systems of oppression, and what we can and should do about it-- from a Jewish lens.

Understanding the way racial injustice works is the first step in remedying the problems, taking us one step closer toward a world affirming of all. Let’s make 2021 a year of actively remedying racial injustice, a year of Tikkun Olam/repair of the world.

Schedule:

13th movie by DuVernay (IYYAR) Monday, 4/12, 3pm PT/ 6pm ET

Caste by Wilkerson (TAMMUZ) Thursday, 6/10, 3pm PT/ 6pm ET

How to be an Antiracist by Kendi (ELUL) Sunday, 8/8, 3pm PT/ 6pm ET

The Color of Love by Gad (CHESHVAN) Thursday, 10/7, 3pm PT/ 6pm ET

N**** Theory by Armour (TEVET) Sunday, 12/5, 3pm PT/ 6pm ET

If you have further questions, or to introduce yourself, please don't hesitate to reach out to Rabbi Miller: rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com To sign up, click HERE. 

INTERFAITH COUNCIL OF GREATER RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

Keeping It Sacred is pleased to be part of the Interfaith Council of Greater Rancho Santa Margarita through Rabbi Miller's involvement at Vice President. They recently published a preamble and Unity and Vision Statement as follows:

The Interfaith Council of Greater Rancho Santa Margarita, is a collaborative body of clergy, faith members, and individuals from throughout South Orange County. We believe we are called to a sacred oneness where no one is cast aside, where all are wanted and needed. Because of recent acts of bigotry and hate in our area, as well as our nation, this Council is compelled to assert its stand on ending the divisiveness and injustices that harm us all.

UNITY STATEMENT

            We, the Interfaith Council of Greater Santa Margarita, affirm the dignity, value, and rights of all human beings. Recognizing we are all formed from the same Divine Creator, we honor and respect every faith, race, ethnicity, culture, language, gender, sexual orientation, physical and mental capability, socioeconomic status, and political ideology. We support one another’s desire to live in truth, safety, and the pursuit of a better life. We strive to celebrate our differences as well as our similarities.

We denounce acts of bigotry, bullying, marginalization, oppression, and violence targeting any individual or group. We welcome opportunities to work and worship with all our beloved siblings. We stand together in times of calm and crisis.

We pray that our unity will build bridges of understanding, peace, mercy, and justice. 

VISION STATEMENT

            We, the Interfaith Council of Greater Rancho Santa Margarita, affirm the dignity, value, and rights of all human beings. We are ever mindful of the diversity of humanity. We strive to honor and respect our differences as well as our similarities. As a council, we denounce acts of violence, hatred, marginalization, and oppression against any member or group of humanity. We stand by and are ready to provide aid, love, and support to any who may be suffering from injustices within our communities and beyond.

            The Interfaith Council of Greater Rancho Santa Margarita strives to work together on service projects within our communities that increase understanding, peace, mercy, and justice. We welcome opportunities to work and worship with all our brothers and sisters. Working together fosters and builds relationships, helps us discover common ground, and creates a psychologically safe environment. This foundation allows us to create friendships and understanding so that we can celebrate our rich cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity. We hope to stand together in times of calm as well as crisis, so we can address the concerns in our communities from a perspective that focuses on uplifting human existence. We work to promote mutual understanding, love, and respect, thus enabling religious freedom, social justice, and a genuine sense of belonging within our communities. We see this as a path to creating a peaceful, equitable world that respects and values the dignity of every human being.

Please contact Rabbi Miller at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com if you'd like to get involved with this sacred work.

HEALING CIRCLE & TALMUD TEXT STUDY EVERY THURSDAY

Ever want to jump into a conversation with the rabbinic sages of old? Now you can! Join us as we study a page of Talmud every day, adding our perspectives and the relevance to our own lives as we go along. 

The more varied the participants the deeper the conversations. Thursdays 11am PT/2pm ET.

Currently, we are 92 members strong from 21 different states and 4 countries!

We are:

People interested in becoming Jewish

Members of various Jewish denominations

Clergy

Lay leaders

Retired people

People who are not Jewish

We are in our 20s to 80s, and we are everywhere on the spectrum of gender.

Build community affirming of one another’s journey in the sea of Talmud with us! Benefit from the wisdom of Jewish tradition!

What people say:

"Yesterday's class was superb!! I remain impressed by so many things that you do! You are able to keep us on track, share (some of) your knowledge with us, make all sorts of connections to the Jewish and secular worlds, and meet each of us where we are! Kudos to you!!"

"Talmud study has opened a window to that world for me. I love the anthropology and sociology of it all."

"The minority opinions may someday count as much as the majority opinions. It reminds us that things change the Halacha changes and we change each year that we read it."

"We have the opportunity to compare the Halacha we are practicing today with the one they were writing and studying in the Talmud... It has been very interesting how things have evolved how we keep the tradition in our own way."

"I feel very close to this amazing group and I'm grateful to Rabbi Miller for conducting it."

AND just prior to our Talmud Study, we hold space for check-ins and healing prayers for loved ones in need, including ourselves. 

Keeping It Sacred programs are free for all because we uphold the value of keruv/accessibility; voluntary financial contributions to help offset the cost of these programs are greatly appreciated.

To join and of these gatherings, please send Rabbi Miller an email or DM on Facebook to be added to the closed, secret Facebook group and/or the weekly text study group. And look for us on Instagram daily HERE.

Why is the democratization of Talmud Study so important? View Rabbi Miller's lecture (delivered to Temple Israel of South Africa) HERE.

ACCESS JUDAISM

Access Judaism is a relevant and empowering adult learning program in a fun, relaxed environment. This program features a broad spectrum of thoughtfully curated Jewish subjects in the realms of history, rituals, culture, philosophy, law, and spirituality. These interactive classes, which include post-class reflection questions, can also count towards requirements of conversion or adult b'nai mitzvah ceremonies.

Classes are open to students entering with a diversity of backgrounds from those well versed in Jewish life to those new to Jewish learning. There is a place for everyone in this program.

This course is taught over Zoom in two sessions of 8 classes each. The classes are flexible and are designed so that a person can choose to take one class, several, a whole session, or both sessions. Suggested donation for one class is $25, one session is $180 and the full program is $300. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.

The Course features classes in philosophy, theology, culture, history, liturgy, and more!

Wednesdays at 7pm PT/ 8p MT/ 9pm CT/ 10pm ET:

Access Judaism: SESSION 1:

10/6 Personal Inventory of Belief

10/13 Radical Responsibility for the World

10/20 Demystifying Denominational Differences

10/27 The Flavors of the Holy Books

11/3 One for Every Mood: The Jewish Holidays

11/10 Jewish Intermarriage: A History

11/17 The Righteous Economic Vision of the Rabbis

11/24 The Kabbalistic Non-Binary God

Access Judaism SESSION 2:

5/11 The Intelligent Design of the Prayer Service

5/18 Reform Renovations of the Prayerbook

5/25 Rituals as Markers of Transition

6/1 The Characteristics of a Good Jew

6/8 Slam Poetry in the Golden Age

6/15 Bad Theology: Terrible Explanations of Why The Righteous Suffer

6/22 Siblings or Cousins?: Jews and Christians in the First Century

6/29 Before You Die, Consider These Rabbinic Thoughts

Register for both 8-class sessions, one 8-class session, or for individual classes a-la-carte when you click on an upcoming Access Judaism classes on our events calendar:

keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1

For further information, or to introduce yourself, please write to Rabbi Miller at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com.

EXCEPTIONAL CHARACTER: THE JEWISH TRADITION OF MUSSAR

The tradition of Mussar encourages participants to delve deeper into a reflective practice of one's own character traits. Throughout the process of exploring the individual inner world, the light of the soul is unlocked and can shine more brightly, which ultimately benefits the universe.

Learn about the tradition, explore essential Jewish character qualities, and learn ways to unlock your own light in this 6-week course. We will utilize Alan Morinis' Everyday Holiness as our study text. Join us for one class, several, or all! Please invite your friends to take the series with you, too!

All classes are Sundays 10am PT/1pm ET on:

10/10 Humility, Patience, Gratitude

10/17 Compassion, Order, Equanimity

10/24 Honor, Simplicity, Enthusiasm

10/31 Silence, Generosity, Truth

11/14 Moderation, Loving-Kindness, Responsibility

11/21 Trust, Faith Fear

Keeping It Sacred programs are free for all because we uphold the value of keruv/accessibility; voluntary financial contributions to help offset the cost of these programs are greatly appreciated. Register HERE:

RESOULUTIONS: A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR SELF-REPAIR

Rabbi Miller's first book, RE(SOUL)UTIONS: A Practical Guide for Self-Repair, is now available as a paperback and reached #1 on Amazon's New Releases! 

The book invites the reader into a process of self-reflection for the sake of personal improvement and empowerment. Rabbi Heather Miller draws from thousands of years of Jewish traditional texts, infusing them with relevance and practical meaning to Jewish and non-Jewish readers today. Her writing is warm, accessible, and meaningful. 

Reviews:

"Rabbi Heather Miller takes us through the sacred journey of Elul with wisdom, warmth and tremendous intellectual facility. Weaving Torah, Talmud, and Midrash, together with the spiritual guidance of her soul, she creates a compelling, meaningful and easy-to-follow guidebook for this Jewish month of preparation. Her teachings are as practical as they are uplifting, and as personal as they are universal."

"Resolutions is Torah in its essence--uplifting and soul-stirring. This collection is a call to deeper self-knowledge and healing, both personally and universally. A powerful and inspiring addition to your bookshelf!"

"This is a perfect way to enter the month of Elul, with an excellent step by step, day by day guide with delectable soul food along with daily new details to stimulate our intellect. A new MUST for the High Holy Days, and/or year round. Will join the ranks of seasonal Jewish classics!"

"This text is clearly written, beautifully arranged, and thoughtfully presented in a way that allows the reader - at any level of knowledge or experience - to connect with their inner soul, and with their personal mission to improve their life. Highly recommend!"

UPCOMING EVENTS:

iCal USER? 

If you use iCal and would like the complete Keeping It Sacred calendar added to your calendar, click the link at the bottom of the page HERE. This way you won't miss an opportunity to connect via our LIVE activities. 

EVERY DAY

Please enjoy our 7-episode web series and podcast: People Keeping It Sacred on YouTube HERE or on your favorite podcast player (like: Spotify  Google Podcasts, Apple + Podcasts, RadioPublic, Breaker, and PocketCasts). To learn more about Jewish holidays, check out our "A bit about... the holidays" HERE. 

ONGOING: SPIRITUAL COUNSELING

Rabbi Miller is available for 1-on-1 spiritual counseling; pay what you can. Topics are based upon the participant and can include your personal theological understanding of coronavirus, spiritually making space for others in your home, the spirituality of isolation and finding your way back to sacred connection. For more information, click HERE.

EVERY THURSDAY: PRAYER CIRCLE

Join us as we gather Thursdays for a Prayer Circle. Lift up names of those who are ill, and join together for support and community. All are welcome. 10:30am PST/ 1:30pm EST/ 3:30pm Brazil time, 6:30pm London-time. Register for this program HERE. 

EVERY THURSDAY: KEEPING IT SACRED-DAF YOMI GROUP MEET-UP

Our Facebook group will host our next virtual meetup via zoom. For the link to attend this meeting Thursdays 11am PST, 2pm EST, 4pm Brazil time, 7pm London time. Register for this program HERE.  

7/25 SACRED GEOMETRY

7/25 Sunday at 10am PT/1pm ET, guest lecturer Rabbi Jordan Parr will share with us insights into the sacred geometry of the mystical tradition of Kabbalah. Whether you're into math or not, this class will get you to think about deeper truths of the universe. Please Register at: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1. 

7/30 SHABBAT SERVICES

Friday night, 7/30 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET, give yourself the gift of space to reflect and rejuvenate with monthly shabbat services. Rabbi Miller and Jeffrey Silverstein will lead the community with Jewish thought and sacred song. Together, we will lift up anniversaries, birthdays, and honor remembrances of our loved ones. This program runs the last Friday night of every month. Please email Rabbi Miller your important dates so we know when to honor your sacred times (birthdays, anniversaries, remembrances) at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com. And please register here: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

8/8 TO BEGIN AGAIN HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMMING

Self-Repair For The Soul

10am PT/1pm ET (75 min) Learn how to do the soul-work needed for transformation throughout the month of Elul, a time of deep transformation. For more information and to register, please visit: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

8/8 ROSH CHODESH RACIAL JUSTICE REVIEW SERIES:

How to Be An Antiracist

Sunday, 8/8 at 3pm PT/6pm ET, join us as we discuss Ibram X. Kendi's powerful book, How to Be An Antiracist. The Rosh Chodesh Racial Justice Review will provide structured space to explore the nature of systemic racism from top thinkers, and help us to reflect upon the ways we participate in, and are impacted by systems of oppression. Please read How to Be An Antiracist on your own, and come ready to discuss. Register for the discussion, facilitated by Rabbi Miller, at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1

8/15 TO BEGIN AGAIN HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMMING

All about the Shofar! 

9am PT/noon ET (75 min) Discover how the shofar calls us to an awakening, prompting us to bring about healing and repair. For more information and to register, please visit: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

8/15 TO BEGIN AGAIN HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMMING

Out of Control: Hannah and Jonah 

10am PT/1pm ET (75 min) Discover and understand why loss of control is at the center of this season’s biblical readings. For more information and to register, please visit: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

8/27 SHABBAT SERVICES

Friday night, 8/27 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET, give yourself the gift of space to reflect and rejuvenate with monthly shabbat services. Rabbi Miller and Jeffrey Silverstein will lead the community with Jewish thought and sacred song. Together, we will lift up anniversaries, birthdays, and honor remembrances of our loved ones. This program runs the last Friday night of every month. Please email Rabbi Miller your important dates so we know when to honor your sacred times (birthdays, anniversaries, remembrances) at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com. And please register here: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

9/6 TO BEGIN AGAIN HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMMING

Erev Rosh HaShanah New Year Seder

5pm PT/8pm ET (75 min) Celebrate the birth of the world by breaking bread together as one beautifully diverse human family. For more information and to register, please visit: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

9/7 TO BEGIN AGAIN HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMMING

Rosh HaShanah Day 1

10am PT/1pm ET (75 min) Celebrate the birth of the world by breaking bread together as one beautifully diverse human family. For more information and to register, please visit: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

9/8 TO BEGIN AGAIN HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMMING

Rosh HaShanah Day 2: Preparing for Growth

5pm PT/8pm ET (75 min) Gain the tools needed for spiritual growth with Kimberly Dueñas & Jewtina y Co. For more information and to register, please visit: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

9/12 TO BEGIN AGAIN HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMMING

Tashlich

10am PT/1pm ET (30 min) Cast off all that has kept you from becoming your favorite version of yourself and start the year with spiritual renewal. For more information and to register, please visit: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

9/15 TO BEGIN AGAIN HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMMING

Kol Nidrei/Erev Yom Kippur

6:30pm PT/9:30pm ET (75 min) Enter into the holiest day of the year with the soul-work of reflection and repair. For more information and to register, please visit: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

9/16 TO BEGIN AGAIN HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMMING

Yom Kippur Day

10am PT/1pm ET (75 min) Focus. onthe texts, melodies and actions needed to rejuvenate the soul in community not bound by geographic limitations. For more information and to register, please visit: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

9/16 TO BEGIN AGAIN HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMMING

Yom Kippur Yizkor Remembrances 

10am PT/1pm ET (75 min) Gather in community to remember loved ones we have lost but hold dear in our hearts this and every year. For more information and to register, please visit: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

9/16 TO BEGIN AGAIN HIGH HOLY DAY PROGRAMMING

Yom Kippur Ne'ilah & Virtual Break-the-Fast

6pm PT/9pm ET (60 min) Rejoice in the conclusion of the day. For more information and to register, please visit: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

10/6 ACCESS JUDAISM

Personal Inventory of Belief

Join us Wednesday, 10/6 at 7pm PT/10pm ET! Access Judaism is a relevant and empowering adult learning program in a fun, relaxed environment. This program features a broad spectrum of thoughtfully curated Jewish subjects in the realms of history, rituals, culture, philosophy, law, and spirituality. These interactive classes, which include post-class reflection questions, can also count towards requirements of conversion or adult b'nai mitzvah ceremonies. Register. for one class, one session, or the whole program at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

10/7 ROSH CHODESH RACIAL JUSTICE REVIEW SERIES

The Color of Love

Thursday, 10/7 at 3pm PT/6pm ET, join us as we discuss Marra Gad's powerful book, The Color of Love. The Rosh Chodesh Racial Justice Review will provide structured space to explore the nature of systemic racism from top thinkers, and help us to reflect upon the ways we participate in, and are impacted by systems of oppression. Please read The Color of Love on your own, and come ready to discuss. Register for the discussion, facilitated by Rabbi Miller, at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1

10/10 EXCEPTIONAL CHARACTER: THE JEWISH TRADITION OF MUSSAR

Humility, Patience, Gratitude

Sunday, 10/10 at 10am PT/ 1pm ET

Learn about the tradition, explore essential Jewish character qualities, and learn ways to unlock your own light in this 6-week course. We will utilize Alan Morinis' Everyday Holiness as our study text. Join us for one class, several, or all! Register at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1

10/13 ACCESS JUDAISM

Radical Responsibility for the World

Join us Wednesday, 10/6 at 7pm PT/10pm ET! Access Judaism is a relevant and empowering adult learning program in a fun, relaxed environment. This program features a broad spectrum of thoughtfully curated Jewish subjects in the realms of history, rituals, culture, philosophy, law, and spirituality. These interactive classes, which include post-class reflection questions, can also count towards requirements of conversion or adult b'nai mitzvah ceremonies. Register. for one class, one session, or the whole program at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

10/17 EXCEPTIONAL CHARACTER: THE JEWISH TRADITION OF MUSSAR

Compassion, Order, Equanimity

Sunday, 10/17 at 10am PT/ 1pm ET

Learn about the tradition, explore essential Jewish character qualities, and learn ways to unlock your own light in this 6-week course. We will utilize Alan Morinis' Everyday Holiness as our study text. Join us for one class, several, or all! Register at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1

10/20 ACCESS JUDAISM

Demystifying Denominational Differences

Join us Wednesday, 10/6 at 7pm PT/10pm ET! Access Judaism is a relevant and empowering adult learning program in a fun, relaxed environment. This program features a broad spectrum of thoughtfully curated Jewish subjects in the realms of history, rituals, culture, philosophy, law, and spirituality. These interactive classes, which include post-class reflection questions, can also count towards requirements of conversion or adult b'nai mitzvah ceremonies. Register. for one class, one session, or the whole program at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

10/24 EXCEPTIONAL CHARACTER: THE JEWISH TRADITION OF MUSSAR

Honor, Simplicity, Enthusiasm

Sunday, 10/24 at 10am PT/ 1pm ET

Learn about the tradition, explore essential Jewish character qualities, and learn ways to unlock your own light in this 6-week course. We will utilize Alan Morinis' Everyday Holiness as our study text. Join us for one class, several, or all! Register at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1

10/27 ACCESS JUDAISM

The Flavors of the Holy Books

Join us Wednesday, 10/27 at 7pm PT/10pm ET! Access Judaism is a relevant and empowering adult learning program in a fun, relaxed environment. This program features a broad spectrum of thoughtfully curated Jewish subjects in the realms of history, rituals, culture, philosophy, law, and spirituality. These interactive classes, which include post-class reflection questions, can also count towards requirements of conversion or adult b'nai mitzvah ceremonies. Register. for one class, one session, or the whole program at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

10/29 SHABBAT SERVICES

Friday night, 10/29 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET, give yourself the gift of space to reflect and rejuvenate with monthly shabbat services. Rabbi Miller and Jeffrey Silverstein will lead the community with Jewish thought and sacred song. Together, we will lift up anniversaries, birthdays, and honor remembrances of our loved ones. This program runs the last Friday night of every month. Please email Rabbi Miller your important dates so we know when to honor your sacred times (birthdays, anniversaries, remembrances) at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com. And please register here: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

10/31 EXCEPTIONAL CHARACTER: THE JEWISH TRADITION OF MUSSAR

Silence, Generosity, Truth

Sunday, 10/31 at 10am PT/ 1pm ET

Learn about the tradition, explore essential Jewish character qualities, and learn ways to unlock your own light in this 6-week course. We will utilize Alan Morinis' Everyday Holiness as our study text. Join us for one class, several, or all! Register at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1

11/3 ACCESS JUDAISM

One for Every Mood: The Jewish Holidays

Join us Wednesday, 10/27 at 7pm PT/10pm ET! Access Judaism is a relevant and empowering adult learning program in a fun, relaxed environment. This program features a broad spectrum of thoughtfully curated Jewish subjects in the realms of history, rituals, culture, philosophy, law, and spirituality. These interactive classes, which include post-class reflection questions, can also count towards requirements of conversion or adult b'nai mitzvah ceremonies. Register. for one class, one session, or the whole program at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

11/10 ACCESS JUDAISM

Jewish Intermarriage: A History

Join us Wednesday, 11/10 at 7pm PT/10pm ET! Access Judaism is a relevant and empowering adult learning program in a fun, relaxed environment. This program features a broad spectrum of thoughtfully curated Jewish subjects in the realms of history, rituals, culture, philosophy, law, and spirituality. These interactive classes, which include post-class reflection questions, can also count towards requirements of conversion or adult b'nai mitzvah ceremonies. Register. for one class, one session, or the whole program at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

11/14 EXCEPTIONAL CHARACTER: THE JEWISH TRADITION OF MUSSAR

Moderation, Loving-Kindness, Responsibility

Sunday, 11/14 at 10am PT/ 1pm ET

Learn about the tradition, explore essential Jewish character qualities, and learn ways to unlock your own light in this 6-week course. We will utilize Alan Morinis' Everyday Holiness as our study text. Join us for one class, several, or all! Register at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1

11/17 ACCESS JUDAISM

The Righteous Economic Vision of the Rabbis

Join us Wednesday, 11/10 at 7pm PT/10pm ET! Access Judaism is a relevant and empowering adult learning program in a fun, relaxed environment. This program features a broad spectrum of thoughtfully curated Jewish subjects in the realms of history, rituals, culture, philosophy, law, and spirituality. These interactive classes, which include post-class reflection questions, can also count towards requirements of conversion or adult b'nai mitzvah ceremonies. Register. for one class, one session, or the whole program at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

11/21 EXCEPTIONAL CHARACTER: THE JEWISH TRADITION OF MUSSAR

Trust, Faith Fear

Sunday, 11/21 at 10am PT/ 1pm ET

Learn about the tradition, explore essential Jewish character qualities, and learn ways to unlock your own light in this 6-week course. We will utilize Alan Morinis' Everyday Holiness as our study text. Join us for one class, several, or all! Register at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1

11/24 ACCESS JUDAISM

The Kabbalistic Non-Binary God

Join us Wednesday, 11/24 at 7pm PT/10pm ET! Access Judaism is a relevant and empowering adult learning program in a fun, relaxed environment. This program features a broad spectrum of thoughtfully curated Jewish subjects in the realms of history, rituals, culture, philosophy, law, and spirituality. These interactive classes, which include post-class reflection questions, can also count towards requirements of conversion or adult b'nai mitzvah ceremonies. Register. for one class, one session, or the whole program at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

11/26 SHABBAT SERVICES

Friday night, 11/26 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET, give yourself the gift of space to reflect and rejuvenate with monthly shabbat services. Rabbi Miller and Jeffrey Silverstein will lead the community with Jewish thought and sacred song. Together, we will lift up anniversaries, birthdays, and honor remembrances of our loved ones. This program runs the last Friday night of every month. Please email Rabbi Miller your important dates so we know when to honor your sacred times (birthdays, anniversaries, remembrances) at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com. And please register here: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

12/5 ROSH CHODESH RACIAL JUSTICE REVIEW SERIES

N**** Theory

Sunday, 12/5 at 3pm PT/6pm ET, join us as we discuss Jody Armour's powerful book, N**** Theory. The Rosh Chodesh Racial Justice Review will provide structured space to explore the nature of systemic racism from top thinkers, and help us to reflect upon the ways we participate in, and are impacted by systems of oppression. Please read N**** Theory on your own, and come ready to discuss. Register for the discussion, facilitated by Rabbi Miller, at keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1

12/31 SHABBAT SERVICES

Friday night, 12/31 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET, give yourself the gift of space to reflect and rejuvenate with monthly shabbat services. Rabbi Miller and Jeffrey Silverstein will lead the community with Jewish thought and sacred song. Together, we will lift up anniversaries, birthdays, and honor remembrances of our loved ones. This program runs the last Friday night of every month. Please email Rabbi Miller your important dates so we know when to honor your sacred times (birthdays, anniversaries, remembrances) at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com. And please register here: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

1/28 SHABBAT SERVICES

Friday night, 1/28 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET, give yourself the gift of space to reflect and rejuvenate with monthly shabbat services. Rabbi Miller and Jeffrey Silverstein will lead the community with Jewish thought and sacred song. Together, we will lift up anniversaries, birthdays, and honor remembrances of our loved ones. This program runs the last Friday night of every month. Please email Rabbi Miller your important dates so we know when to honor your sacred times (birthdays, anniversaries, remembrances) at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com. And please register here: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

2/25 SHABBAT SERVICES

Friday night, 2/25 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET, give yourself the gift of space to reflect and rejuvenate with monthly shabbat services. Rabbi Miller and Jeffrey Silverstein will lead the community with Jewish thought and sacred song. Together, we will lift up anniversaries, birthdays, and honor remembrances of our loved ones. This program runs the last Friday night of every month. Please email Rabbi Miller your important dates so we know when to honor your sacred times (birthdays, anniversaries, remembrances) at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com. And please register here: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

3/25 SHABBAT SERVICES

Friday night, 8/27 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET, give yourself the gift of space to reflect and rejuvenate with monthly shabbat services. Rabbi Miller and Jeffrey Silverstein will lead the community with Jewish thought and sacred song. Together, we will lift up anniversaries, birthdays, and honor remembrances of our loved ones. This program runs the last Friday night of every month. Please email Rabbi Miller your important dates so we know when to honor your sacred times (birthdays, anniversaries, remembrances) at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com. And please register here: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

4/29 SHABBAT SERVICES

Friday night, 8/27 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET, give yourself the gift of space to reflect and rejuvenate with monthly shabbat services. Rabbi Miller and Jeffrey Silverstein will lead the community with Jewish thought and sacred song. Together, we will lift up anniversaries, birthdays, and honor remembrances of our loved ones. This program runs the last Friday night of every month. Please email Rabbi Miller your important dates so we know when to honor your sacred times (birthdays, anniversaries, remembrances) at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com. And please register here: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

5/27 SHABBAT SERVICES

Friday night, 5/27 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET, give yourself the gift of space to reflect and rejuvenate with monthly shabbat services. Rabbi Miller and Jeffrey Silverstein will lead the community with Jewish thought and sacred song. Together, we will lift up anniversaries, birthdays, and honor remembrances of our loved ones. This program runs the last Friday night of every month. Please email Rabbi Miller your important dates so we know when to honor your sacred times (birthdays, anniversaries, remembrances) at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com. And please register here: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

6/24 SHABBAT SERVICES

Friday night, 6/24 at 5:30pm PT/8:30pm ET, give yourself the gift of space to reflect and rejuvenate with monthly shabbat services. Rabbi Miller and Jeffrey Silverstein will lead the community with Jewish thought and sacred song. Together, we will lift up anniversaries, birthdays, and honor remembrances of our loved ones. This program runs the last Friday night of every month. Please email Rabbi Miller your important dates so we know when to honor your sacred times (birthdays, anniversaries, remembrances) at rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com. And please register here: keepingitsacred.com/upcoming-1.

THANK YOU!

You are a cherished member of this community and we love to hear from you-- what questions do you have? Reach out to rabbimiller@keepingitsacred.com or via phone at 818-312-8388 anytime to let us know what you’re finding meaningful, inspiring and what you’d like to see.

Together, we're #keepingitsacred...

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SUPPORTING KEEPING IT SACRED

Every member of this community is a valued part of the whole. Membership starts simply by signing up for the newsletter email list. From there, each and every person contributes meaningfully to build this community in terms of: participation in programs, sharing of knowledge, skills and connections, and, where possible, financial support. In every case, everyone who builds this community is greatly appreciated.

If you are able to offer financial support, please consider a contribution towards our wish list:

• General Support: Helps maintain our general operating budget which funds things like music licenses, our zoom subscription, and generally keep KITS running. ($180)
• Website: Enables us to host and maintain our website. ($300)
• Visiting Torah: Allows us to enjoy use of a Sefer Torah during the High Holy Days. ($500)
• Partnerships: Enables us to partner with key organizations and speakers who are mission-aligned. ($800)
• Internships: Enables us to host paid interns. ($1200)
• Curricular Development: Supports our development of accessible, relevant, and empowering curriculum. ($2400)
• Musicians: Elevates our services with musical accompaniment. ($6000)

To make a financial contribution, please visit our web page:

keepingitsacred.com/our-future

We'd love for you to forward this to a friend to invite them to sign up, too!

If you’d like to make sure that this kind of quality programming by

Keeping It Sacred continues, please consider making a donation via:

keepingitsacred.com/our-future

Thank you for #keepingitsacred...