Kolot: Voices from The Ark Synagogue

The Ark Synagogue
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Welcome to Kolot, the podcast of The Ark Synagogue, a bold, experiential and caring Progressive Jewish community in Northwood, London. Through sermons, reflections and conversations from across our community, Kolot explores Jewish life, learning and values in the world we live in today. Rooted in tradition and open to new perspectives, these episodes bring together voices that inspire thought, connection and belonging. Whether you are Jewish, exploring Judaism, or simply looking for meaningful reflection, you are warmly welcome. To learn more about The Ark Synagogue, visit arksynagogue.org.

  1. The Power of Words

    May 30

    The Power of Words

    Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores the impact of our words on the world, drawing from the story of Miriam and Aaron's criticism of Moses in Parashat Beha'alotcha. She discusses the importance of pausing before speaking, considering the weight of our words, and using them wisely. The sermon also touches on the significance of humility and restraint in communication, and how these values can help build a more compassionate and less cruel world. ★ Support this podcast ★

    11 min
  2. Close Enough to Hear Torah

    May 23

    Close Enough to Hear Torah

    Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores the significance of Sinai and Shavuot, highlighting a crucial Midrashic teaching that revelation begins not with God's voice, but with people standing together in unity. She discusses the priestly benediction and its emphasis on peace, suggesting that Jewish community is about maintaining covenant even in disagreement. The sermon encourages listeners to consider whether they can stand close enough to one another to hear Torah again. ★ Support this podcast ★

    13 min
  3. The Ineffable Name

    May 22

    The Ineffable Name

    Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the connection between the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai and the festival of Shavuot, highlighting the importance of finding holiness in everyday moments. He reflects on the idea that perfection is not our reality, but rather we strive towards it through our trials and tribulations. The sermon also touches on the significance of the Omer and the journey from barley to wheat. ★ Support this podcast ★

    10 min
  4. The Crown of a Good Name

    May 16

    The Crown of a Good Name

    Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the Torah's progressive approach to leadership, highlighting how God chose the Levites for their merits rather than birthright. He discusses the importance of engaging with those we disagree with and shares examples of people building bridges across divides. The sermon also reflects on Yom Yerushalayim, advocating for a Progressive Jewish approach that emphasizes compassion, shared society, and peace. ★ Support this podcast ★

    12 min
  5. Remembering the Light

    May 8

    Remembering the Light

    In this sermon, Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the challenging parasha of Bechukotai, where the terms of obedience to God are outlined in a list of blessings and curses. The rabbi questions how ancient Sages could claim that the blessings outweigh the curses when the curses seem so graphic and realistic. The sermon highlights glimmers of hope, including KKL-JNF's decision to cut funding to West Bank 'farm' outposts and a seminar in Georgia where Progressive Jewish prayer leaders came together to learn and grow. The rabbi encourages listeners to count the blessings around them and to find ways to bring more blessings into the world. ★ Support this podcast ★

    11 min
  6. Am I Dreaming?

    May 9

    Am I Dreaming?

    Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky reflects on her journey to becoming the rabbi of the Ark Synagogue, exploring themes of identity, faith, and community. She discusses her experiences as a Brazilian woman with a mixed heritage, and how her grandmothers' teachings and her own perseverance led her to the rabbinate. The sermon touches on the idea of shmitah, or rest, and how it relates to her own path. Rabbi Kulikovsky also shares her vision for her role in the community, emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and bringing joy, creativity, and resilience to the sacred space. ★ Support this podcast ★

    12 min
  7. Sacred Time, Sacred People

    May 1

    Sacred Time, Sacred People

    In this sermon, Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores the concept of sacred time in Parashat Emor, highlighting how the Torah presents holiness as not just something received from God, but also as something we create. The rabbi discusses the importance of marking and making sacred time real in our lives, and how this relates to our responsibility to live lives of intention and compassion. Listeners will gain insight into the Jewish understanding of time, community, and the connection between sacred rituals and social responsibility. ★ Support this podcast ★

    9 min
  8. Facing Fear and Trauma

    Apr 25

    Facing Fear and Trauma

    Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores how to live with fear and grief after traumatic events, drawing on the Torah portion Acharei Mot. She argues that healing requires structure, ritual, and community support, rather than ignoring or denying pain. The sermon emphasizes the importance of asking 'How are you?' and being present for one another. ★ Support this podcast ★

    10 min
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About

Welcome to Kolot, the podcast of The Ark Synagogue, a bold, experiential and caring Progressive Jewish community in Northwood, London. Through sermons, reflections and conversations from across our community, Kolot explores Jewish life, learning and values in the world we live in today. Rooted in tradition and open to new perspectives, these episodes bring together voices that inspire thought, connection and belonging. Whether you are Jewish, exploring Judaism, or simply looking for meaningful reflection, you are warmly welcome. To learn more about The Ark Synagogue, visit arksynagogue.org.

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