Being a Rabbi to Non-Jews: A Conversation with Rabbi Rachael Jackson
Rabbi Rachael Jackson is uniquely well-situated to bring Jewish wisdom to science, and to break down some of the complex debates in science for the general population.
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Rabbi Rachael Jackson is the rabbi of Agudas Israel Congregation in Hendersonville, North Carolina, ordained from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. Prior to rabbinical school, she earned her Bachelor’s degree from Northern Arizona University and worked for a decade as an analytical chemist in biopharmaceutical, biofuel, and hazardous waste companies. These two careers are not as divergent as one might think, for Rachael believes that science and religion are quite similar: while each discipline specializes in its own set of questions, both seek to explain the hows and whys of the world. Science and religion inspire awe, and whether Rachael is working with instruments or working with people, reverence and wonder are constants in her life. The focus of her rabbinate is thus on exploring and imparting the meld of Judaism and modernity, and natural law and Jewish living. She is especially interested in the field of medical ethics, and is the President of the Interfaith Assistance Ministries.
Hate Needs a Vaccine
Hate needs a vaccine. As Dr. King Jr said, “the time is always right to do what is right”. Now is the right time.
From Grief to Holiness
Right now we are living with communal grief, if not also personal grief. It is hard to see our holiness, but it is there.
Counting During COVID
Perhaps we will remember this time by the actions we took, not the time spent in our homes. Perhaps we will measure this time in phone calls, in virtual connectivity, in mask-clad smiles.
Finding Ourselves in the Stars
When we look up at the vastness of the universe, does that make us feel very small, or does it make us feel connected to something so much larger?
Hope Amidst Crisis… Because ‘This Too Shall Pass’
“Gam zeh yaavor”—this too shall pass, whether “this” is a sorrowful or a joyful feeling or situation. This phrase can apply in a myriad of ways if we let it.
Is Faith Like ‘Fake News’?
As a scientist, it takes years of training and failing, and occasionally succeeding, to become comfortable with knowing that some day you might be proven wrong. How different that looks through the lens of faith!
Climate Change as a Story
Big Stories, like the ones forged by religion, could be a powerful motivator for climate action. How might we use this way of thinking to spur action while staying scientific?
How Can Places of Worship Better Serve Young Adults?
Do young adults “outgrow” religion? The Sinai and Synapses Fellows’ personal stories add nuance to this claim.
Science, Religion and Emerging Adults
Is science driving emerging adults from religion? Our Sinai and Synapses Fellows discuss.
