Do aliens really exist, and if so, what do ancient artwork and Jewish texts tell us about them? Join the Rabbis as they dive into the unknown — ancient mysteries and modern disclosure — to discover how extraterrestrial life may fit into a spiritual worldview.

Notes from the episode:

• Ancient relief from The Louvre in Paris, France

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This episode’s theme song was written & performed by Jeremy Lieb.

We often define our Jewishness through the shared collective trauma that has followed us for millennia. These trials shape the narrative we tell ourselves, the world, and perhaps most impactfully, our younger generations. But as we strive to preserve and share our historic suffering, we also teach the world that this is all it means to be Jewish.

As we look ahead, we must ask ourselves – what can we do to find our Jewish joy again? How do we recapture the vibrant, beautiful, joyful mosaic that truly defines what it means to be a Jew? As we move forward, we must focus our gaze on the future – a brighter future – filled with love.

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This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.

Has the Golden Age of the American Jew come to an end? On Rosh Hashanah morning, Rabbi Michael tells us his answer: absolutely not. Our destiny is that of our own making, and history demonstrates that every generation has their own opportunity to fight for what it means to be a Jew. We have not been gifted times of greater ease or freedoms, we have fought for it - for ourselves, and for future generations.

So now, in a time where Jews are facing a rise in antisemitism not seen for decades, what will we do to fight, not just for Jewish rights, but for our joy?

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This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.

For generations, Jews have strived for acceptance. From our neighbors, from our communities, from the world. Where acceptance eluded us, we tried assimilation. For centuries the American Jewish journey was defined by the struggle to balance tradition & identity with compromise & integration.

Now perhaps, it is time to try a third option: authenticity. It is time for us to shine and succeed as Jews, and to make no apology for who we are.

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For more information about Congregation Temple Israel, visit: www.ti-stl.org

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This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.

What type of Jew are you? Perhaps a “Passover Jew,” defined by your empathy & care for others, even those beyond your community? Or maybe a “Purim Jew,” focused on protecting the Jewish community, building our metaphoric walls high to prioritize ourselves and our children.

Or just maybe, we pick a third option while we still can; one defined by both bravery and protection, as well as by empathy for our families, our community, and the world. If not now, when?

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For more information about Congregation Temple Israel, visit: www.ti-stl.org

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This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.

During this busy time of year – kids heading back to school, Labor Day plans, the High Holy Days approaching, fall sports underway – it can feel difficult to add anything else to your plate. But in many ways, it is in fact the best time of year to recommit to living Jewishly out loud. The Torah reminds us that being a mensch is an innate responsibility, not just when it is convenient, but when our acts of kindness will make the greatest impact on the world. Join Rabbi Michael as he explores how to embrace the Jewish tradition of loving your neighbor, and why there has never been a better time to do so.

Lighten your load in preparation for the High Holy Days.

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This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.

As we head into the High Holy Days, we often focus on teshuvah — the hard work of apologizing and making amends. But what about the modern "villains" in our lives whom we aren't ready to forgive? In this powerful pre-holiday episode, discover three practical, psychological tools for processing deep resentment. While forgiveness requires two people, letting go of hatred is an inner job that only you can do for yourself; tune in to lighten your emotional load and prepare your heart for a truly peaceful New Year.

Lighten your load in preparation for the High Holy Days.

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This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.

Is a "good friend" someone who never judges you, or the one person with the courage to call you out? Drawing from the Torah, this episode dives into the difficult Jewish obligation of tochecha — offering constructive criticism to those we love. From a mysterious Talmudic story about a rabbi and a neighbor’s ox to the three golden rules of "rebuking" without ruining a relationship, we explore how holding each other accountable is the ultimate Jewish act of love.

This sermon originally aired on April 24, 2026.

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For more information about Congregation Temple Israel, visit: www.ti-stl.org

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This podcast’s theme song, “Oseh Shalom,” is performed by Rob Aronson.