The Voices of Emanu El Podcast

Lift Up Your Eyes

Cantor Becky Mann joined us in November for a weekend as our Music at Emanu El Artist in Residence. In this shabbat message, she explores the powerful message of lifting our eyes to find hope, healing, and divine presence even in our most challenging moments. Through the stories of our ancestors — Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob — we're reminded that God is often found in the moments we least expect.
Key themes explored:
✨ The power of presence and living in the "right now" of Shabbat
✨ Finding courage to lift our eyes during difficult times
✨ Jacob's revelation: "God is in this place and I did not know it"
✨ Discovering light and hope in unexpected places

What Were You Made For?

What does it mean to be “made for” something, and how do we find our way there? In this episode, Rabbi Oren Hayon weaves together a therapy dog named Obie, the spectacle of the Houston World Series of Dog Shows, and the quiet, powerful moments when humans, like well-trained dogs, seem to slip effortlessly into what they were born to do. Through stories of agility courses and scent work, Olympic-level focus and barn-hunt bravery, we explore the intersection of practice, innate gifts, and the deep spiritual satisfaction of living our purpose.​
From there, the conversation turns to Jewish spiritual tradition: tales of rabbis, cantors, and teachers so immersed in prayer, song, or Torah study that they lose all sense of time, and what those stories can teach about moments of transcendence available to all of us—not just the spiritual “greats.” Along the way, you’ll hear a stirring excerpt from Marge Piercy’s poem “To Be of Use” and a reminder that each of us is the embodiment of generations of hope, history, and survival, especially as inheritors of Jewish peoplehood.

The Courage to Stay Present

In this episode of The Voices of Emanu El, Rabbi Pam Silk explores Parashat Vayeishev and the paradox of “settling” in a world that rarely feels settled. Drawing on the story of Joseph, we reflect on what it means to remain grounded and present even when life feels turbulent and unpredictable.
Rabbi Silk weaves together Joseph’s journey from the pit to leadership with the courage of the Maccabees, who lit the menorah in a desecrated Temple with oil that was certain to run out. Their choice to kindle light in the midst of fear and instability becomes a model for choosing presence over paralysis, hope over despair, and small, faithful actions over waiting for perfect conditions.

After the Flood

One week after devastating flooding in Central Texas, Rabbi Pam Silk reflects on how the 23rd Psalm can so powerfully capture and express the experience of struggle, grief, and bereavement. She captures the necessity of soul restoration, being with others, and celebrating Shabbat together.

Super Fan-tastic July - Uniquely American Responses to Antisemitism

Did you know Superman's story is deeply rooted in Jewish culture? Discover how two Jewish teenagers created an iconic hero who embodies immigrant struggles and Jewish values. This fascinating insight from Rabbi Josh Fixler connects superhero lore with real history, sparking curiosity and pride. Perfect for history buffs and comic fans alike; share this hidden story!

Eggs and Ashes

Join Rabbi Oren Hayon for an inspiring reflection on the deep significance of the Sh’ma — the six Hebrew words that form the backbone of Jewish faith and peoplehood. Discover how the Sh’ma weaves through every stage of the Jewish lifespan, grounding us in tradition and community, and fueling acts of justice and repair. Through ancient legend, Torah teachings, and the wisdom of modern theologians, we explore how the Sh’ma is both a proclamation of faith and a call to ethical action, especially in troubled times. At a time when the world feels broken by conflict and anxiety, this conversation reminds us that we are bound by a sacred mission: to defend our community, embody compassion, and work toward wholeness and peace. The Sh’ma calls us to listen, to act, and to remain hopeful, reaffirming our eternal responsibility to heal and repair our world, together.

Six Words

Join Rabbi Oren Hayon for an inspiring reflection on the deep significance of the Sh’ma — the six Hebrew words that form the backbone of Jewish faith and peoplehood. Discover how the Sh’ma weaves through every stage of the Jewish lifespan, grounding us in tradition and community, and fueling acts of justice and repair. Through ancient legend, Torah teachings, and the wisdom of modern theologians, we explore how the Sh’ma is both a proclamation of faith and a call to ethical action, especially in troubled times. At a time when the world feels broken by conflict and anxiety, this conversation reminds us that we are bound by a sacred mission: to defend our community, embody compassion, and work toward wholeness and peace. The Sh’ma calls us to listen, to act, and to remain hopeful, reaffirming our eternal responsibility to heal and repair our world, together.

A Tiny Little Dot

Dropping your child off at college? Grappling with change and those bittersweet, proud parent moments? In this heartfelt reflection, Rabbi Pam Silk connects the milestone of sending a child off to school with this week’s Torah portion, Parashat Re’eh. Explore the journey from day-to-day parenting to long-distance love, the mixed emotions of letting go, and the wisdom the Torah offers when facing major life transitions. Learn how Moses’ farewell to the Israelites and the age-old struggle of choosing blessing over curse can guide us through our own big moments of change. Whether you’re a parent, a student beginning a new adventure, or anyone encountering transition, this message will leave you inspired to seek blessings, notice life’s grey areas, and move forward with meaning and heart.

Justice, Judgment, and Compassion

Ever judged a “bad driver” — or anyone — for cutting corners and then wondered about your own reactions? This week, Rabbi Oren Hayon shares a powerful take on justice, mercy, and how we judge each other. In this time of Elul, discover how the Torah calls us to temper our judgments with compassion — for each other and for ourselves.

Just a Phone

Through a compelling story of loss, memory, and the hidden meaning behind everyday objects, Rabbi Pam Silk explores why returning lost property, helping those in need, and remaining engaged—no matter how difficult—are core to Jewish tradition and universal ethics. Drawing on wisdom from Rabbi Menachem ben Benjamin Recanati, classic rabbinic tales, and contemporary teaching, this sermon asks: What does it mean to not remain indifferent? How do we rise to the challenge of doing the right thing, not just when it feels good, but especially when it feels impossible? Perfect for anyone seeking spiritual insight, moral courage, or a meaningful start to the High Holy Day season.