The problem of religious nationalism
by Rev. Dr. George Mason Nancy’s essay this month is a heartrending and painful example of what we try to model through Faith Commons. In that same spirit, it seems […]
Nationalism or terrorism? Let’s get clear.
by Rabbi Nancy Kasten This week Jews across the globe celebrated the holiday of Purim, commemorating the Persian Jewish community’s deliverance from destruction as described in the biblical book of […]
More than food for thought
by Rabbi Nancy Kasten Hunger is pervasive in Texas, but for the most part, it’s invisible. We don’t have to guess how many Texas households lost power in the most […]
Thoughts from the Commons: On the meaning of Juneteenth
by Rabbi Nancy Kasten Last year, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law, making a holiday that originated in Galveston in 1866 into a federal […]
Thoughts from the Commons: Faith is not a spectator sport.
by Rabbi Nancy Kasten In April 2021 I joined a group from Temple Emanu-El and met (virtually) with Texas State Representative Morgan Meyer’s chief of staff to discuss several legislative […]
Thoughts from the Commons: God needs us all.
by Rabbi Nancy Kasten This story is told of the 18th century scholar and rabbi, Zusha of Hanipol: Reb Zusha was lying on his deathbed surrounded by his disciples. He […]
Resolution Revolutions
In a CBS poll conducted by telephone in December, 29% of Americans said they were making New Year’s resolutions, down from 43% last year. What’s behind this notable decline? No […]
Immigration: A Human Story
Our fifth monthly newsletter from Faith Commons is about immigration, coinciding with the new series on immigration on our podcast: Good God. The second Monday in October is known […]
Thoughts from the Commons: Upstanders
Our fourth monthly newsletter from Faith Commons is about being an “Upstander,” and learning to speak up and stand up for justice. The term “Upstander,” first used by diplomat […]
Thoughts from the Commons: Prayer and the New Normal
Our third monthly newsletter from Faith Commons is not issue-based this month, but a word of comfort and preparation for dark days ahead. August in Texas. A bittersweet time, […]