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October 7, 2023 shattered the comfortable ability to be Jewish without thinking much about what being Jewish meant. Suddenly, Israel, antisemitism, Jewish history, community, and identity became impossible to leave in the background. An October 8th Jew isn’t necessarily more religious, more Zionist, or more politically conservative (or an anti-Zionist progressive, for that matter). They're a Jew whose assumptions about Jewish identity were disrupted—and who was left asking: What does being Jewish actually mean to me, now? Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

The dual meaning of Sukkot (booths?! Divine protection?!) gets an even bigger meaning when we think about our growing community. Consider that the ancient Priestly class likely added a theological layer to a preexisting activity, and you get an understanding of Sukkot that combines the spiritual, historical and practical layers of the utterly nonsensical holiday that is Sukkot. And also, shaking a lemon for God. In this episode, we talk about the Sukkot party you may have (probably) missed, our future as a community, and simchateinu -- our joy. Donate To Bayit: https://kehillahrva.org/donate/ Learn more about Sukkot: https://www.thetorah.com/article/the-sukkah-and-its-symbolism Learn more about Commonwealth Autism: https://www.commonwealthautism.org/ Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

You matter. And you're always welcome home. Rabbi Patrick explores the ancient idea that Yom Kippur allows us to set aside the roles we play throughout the year and return to our truest selves. Drawing on Jewish tradition, the history of the synagogue, and Kehillah's own story, he asks what makes a Jewish community a home—and what it means for Kehillah to create a permanent home of its own. Also included: an update from Commonwealth Autism and an invitation to support BAYIT, Kehillah's effort to establish a permanent Jewish home in North Chesterfield, VA. Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

Kehillah is ready for its next chapter. In this final episode of the season, Rabbi Patrick reflects on Rosh Hashanah, the story of Avraham and Yitzakh, and what it means to actually listen to the people who make up our community. And we talk about Bayit — our effort to create a permanent, secured home for Kehillah. Not a building for the sake of a building, but a home for our Torah, Shabbat services and dinners, a MASSIVELY expanded Kehillah Cares, friendship and belonging. We’ve already raised $50,000 toward our $90,000 goal. Now we need your help to raise the remaining $40,000. If Kehillah has mattered to you, help us make sure there is room for the next person, the next family and the next Shabbat dinner. Help us build Bayit. Because you matter. DONATE TO BAYIT (LET'S BUILD A HOME): https://kehillahrva.org/donate/ Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

OK - you know I'm supposed to give a class like "what is Rosh Hashanah" but you all can find AI slop to help you learn that. Instead, how about "What do we owe God"? Seems on-theme for the High Holy Days. Maybe the answer isn't about figuring out exactly what God wants. Maybe it's about what we have that God doesn't have: our humanity. If being alive is a blessing, then what are we going to do with the fact that we're here? Upcoming Kehillah Events Saturday, September 12 @ 10:00 AM Free Rosh Hashanah Day Torah Service Diversity Richmond, Northside RSVP Saturday, September 12 @ 12:00–8:00 PM Rosh Hashanah Tent at VA Pridefest Midtown Green RSVP See all upcoming Kehillah events Community Partner: Commonwealth Autism Autism & Neuroinclusivity in the Workplace Training Training for individuals, organizations, and businesses building more inclusive workplaces. Register Birdies for Charity Donations to Commonwealth Autism receive an additional 10% through the Birdies for Charity fundraiser. Donate Career Readiness & Employment Cohort The next cohort begins September 14. Applications are open for people looking to build job skills and move toward meaningful employment. Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

EPISODE 50!!! And we're wondering, where are the angels? Drawing from Genesis 22, Midrash, and the Friday night prayer Shalom Aleichem, this episode explores what it means to answer God's call with one simple Hebrew phrase: Hineini—"Here I am." Also, the 90's TV show Touched By An Angel. Upcoming Kehillah Events 📅 Friday, August 7 @ 6:00 PM Shabbat Service & Dinner | Commonwealth Autism (Bon Air) 📅 Friday, August 14 @ 6:00 PM Home Hosted Shabbat | Hosted by Joel (Mosely) 📅 Friday, August 28 @ 6:00 PM Home Hosted Shabbat | Hosted by Natalie (Glen Allen) RSVP: https://kehillahrva.org/calendar/ Community Partner Spotlight Commonwealth Autism presents Autism & Neuroinclusivity in the Workplace, a foundational training for individuals, organizations, and businesses seeking to build more inclusive communities and workplaces. Learn more: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1992565694631?aff=oddtdtcreator Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

Should Judaism be accessible before someone can afford it? The Free Synagogue Movement was built around:  A free pulpit  Freedom of conscience  No pew rentals  No required dues  Equality and social justice And that's Kehillah. At a time when many people feel disconnected from institutions, perhaps people are not looking for less community. Perhaps they are looking for a different kind of community. Let's talk about it. Upcoming Kehillah Events 📅 Friday, August 7 @ 6:00 PM Shabbat Service & Dinner Commonwealth Autism (Bon Air) 📅 Friday, August 14 @ 6:00 PM Home Hosted Shabbat Hosted by Joel (Woodlake) 📅 Friday, August 28 @ 6:00 PM Home Hosted Shabbat Hosted by Natalie (Glen Allen) RSVP: https://kehillahrva.org/calendar/ Support Kehillah If this vision of Jewish community matters to you, consider supporting Kehillah: https://kehillahrva.org/donate/ Community Partner Spotlight: Commonwealth Autism Autism & Neuroinclusivity in the Workplace A foundational training for individuals, organizations, and businesses seeking to build more inclusive communities and workplaces. LEARN MORE: https://www.commonwealthautism.org/ Craft and Read Along 📍 Good Foods Grocery  📅 July 23, 2026 | 11:00 AM–12:30 PM A fun morning for children ages 3–7 featuring crafts, reading, and a sweet treat from The Baking Agent. RSVP: https://goodfoodsgrocery.com/events-calendar/ Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

A big thanks to Jacob, Joe, Martha, Robin and everyone who volunteered to make our first Shabbat at Commonwealth Autism possible. While the rabbi is away on vacay, enjoy this sneak peek at volunteer opportunities. If you'd like to get more involved in our social circles and ambassadorship (aka hanging out with new people) fill out this form: https://kehillahrva.org/social-circles/ From our friends at Commonwealth Autism Autism & Neuroinclusivity in the Workplace This is a foundational training offered to individuals, organizations or businesses looking to build inclusive culture into their communities. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1992565694631?aff=oddtdtcreator Craft and Read Along Date & Time: July 23, 2026 at 11:00 AM (Eastern Daylight Time) Location: Good Foods Grocery Join us for a fun-filled read along and craft day designed especially for children ages 3 to 7! Kids will get creative making their very own paper mouse ears before all the little mouses get to reading along to the classic, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie. Then finish up with a sweet treat from local vendor, The Baking Agent. We hope you can join us! Craft and Read Along Tickets, Thursday, July 23  •  11 AM - 12:30 PM | Eventbrite Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

The results of our community survey are in, and there are many ways you can make Kehillah MORE of what you need it to be. Yes -- this podcast episode has a lot of asks in it. But they are all fun. Wish Kehillah was closer to you? Host a Shabbat (we pay for food, setup, cleanup -- all of is)Wish there were more groups that you can connect with? Start one! Info is on the website. And also, we need ambassadors! That's something you can do, tooWant to grow in your Jewish knowledge and practice? We need people to help lead. Call them para-rabbis, cantorial soloists, darshanim or lay leaders, you can be oneWe also have BAYIT (a long term project for a permanent home), playdates for families with kids and more. Reach out to [email protected] if you have questions or to get started. Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

As America celebrates its 250th birthday, Rabbi Patrick explores a different path through our nation's political and cultural divisions: Radical Pragmatism. Drawing on the wisdom of Yitro's advice to Moses, and the daughters of Zelophehad, this episode argues that Judaism offers a model for solving problems practical action rather than ideological certainty. What might happen if we focused less on winning arguments and more on discovering what actually works, for America, for Israel, for the Jewish community, and for one another? Let's find out. Happy 250th, America. UPCOMING SHABBAT: July 10th a TowneBank Community Kitchen inside Commonweath Autism. Free tickets if you need them. RSVP at KehillahRVA.org Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

Why do people return to unhealthy relationships, destructive habits, or situations they worked so hard to escape? And why does Rabbi Patrick watch Halloween commercials from 1988? In this episode of the Kehillah Podcast, Rabbi Patrick explores the phenomenon of false nostalgia through the lens of the Torah's wilderness narratives. Topics include:  Why the Israelites repeatedly wanted to return to Egypt  The difference between healthy remembrance and false nostalgia  How addiction, unhealthy relationships, and family systems can keep us stuck in resisting positive change, and wishing we could go back to unhealthy times in our life And what to do when we find ourselves daydreaming about the past, when we need to move into a brighter future.Also -- real transformation rarely happens alone. The path forward is often found not in returning to what was, but in finding people who can help us build what comes next. Kehillah is there for you, exactly for that. Learn more about Kehillah: https://kehillahrva.org Support the podcast and our community: https://kehillahrva.org/donate Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

This is an announcement 📣  a lot of great opportunities to connect, to volunteer and to donate to your Jewish community. Details in the episode. Links below:  JCC Pride Shabbat Service with Kehillah, Or Atid & NextGen (Richmond)  Fri Jun 12, 2026 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM | Weinstein JCC, 23226 Shabbat Learning and Brunch at Second Arrow (Church Hill)  Sat Jun 13, 2026 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Second Arrow, 23223 Shabbat Dinner & Service at Commonwealth Autism (Bon Air/Richmond)  Fri Jul 10, 2026 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM | Commonwealth Autism, 2323 And yes, we know, too early. But still... SAVE THE DATES: High Holidays with Kehillah  Fri Sep 11, 2026 6:00 PM - Fri Sep 25, 2026 8:00 PM Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

In this episode, Rabbi Patrick explores a provocative question: What do we owe ourselves? Drawing from the Book of Genesis and Johann Hari’s book Lost Connections, we explore whether many of our struggles stem from something deeper than stress or busyness—a loss of our humanity itself. This includes asking ourselves some deep questions like: What does it mean to be created in the image of God?How does meaning transform existence into holiness?Why human beings are called to create, build, and contribute, have purpose, make family, friendship, and finding a tribeMeaning. Creativity. Community. Humanity. Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

Repeat after me: converting to Judaism is not joining a religion. (Or at least, it’s MORE than joining a religion.) Judaism is a peoplehood, and becoming Jewish is about being brought into that peoplehood. And the peoplehood, well, they certainly know how to people! LOL In this part II episode on converting to Judaism, Rabbi Patrick talks about all the things they DON’T talk to you about in your Judaism 101 class. Topics include: What do born Jews think about conversion? You might be a little surprised!What are some of the unspoken cultural norms of Jewish life outside halacha — because every group has a way of being that isn’t expressly taughtThe Jewish Non-Profit World. What is a Federation, a JCC, Hillel, and all these Israel aligned organizations? And what does that mean for me as a Jew By Choice?And also, let’s talk about an idea called Rent A Bubbe and why the Mandalorian in Star Wars is a warrior Jew (at least, according to Rebbetzin Stefanie)Want to become Jewish? In the last conversion episode, Rabbi Patrick explored the meaning of conversion in Kehillah and Progressive streams of Judaism—everything from Jewish identity, practice, bet din, mikvah, and ultimately belonging. Find that episode here:  SPOTIFY https://open.spotify.com/episode/5M4sLgkRjuH1Cp6fKfFPtC APPLE https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/converting-to-judaism/id1814185248?i=1000712044611 SECOND ARROW HAS ANOTHER INSTAGRAM Follow @SecondArrowYoga for yoga (and coffee!) in Church Hill, Richmond, VA. Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate

Shavuot starts this Thursday evening, and in the spirit of all night Jewish learning, we thought we’d offer something unique — a kind of Ask the Rabbi Anything. Questions include: The theology behind Jewish humor (HE HAD A HAT!)Why Jews got into the entertainment industryDealing with chronic illness JewishlyRabbi’s favorite holidays and why (Make Simchat Torah Great Again)Yitzhak Rabin and provincesHow Kehillah makes decisionsAnd a very intimate story about rabbi Patrick's quest for God after tragedySPONSOR THIS PODCAST Seriously you guys, help us out. If you like it, drop some coins in honor of Shavuot: https://kehillahrva.org/donate/ FRIDAY MAY 22 | 5:30PM | SHABBAT, SHAVUOT  & A MOUNTAIN OF ICE CREAM Dinner, free Jewish books to take home, projects for kids and the Mount Sinai Mountain of Ice Cream. TOTALLY FREE! Tickets here: https://kehillahrva.org/calendar/ Got questions? Send us a text and we'll read it on the show Support the show 📲 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/kehillahrva 📘 Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/kehillahrva 🕯️ Learn more about Kehillah: kehillahrva.org 💛 Support Kehillah: kehillahrva.org/donate