One of the most profound problems we face is that of loneliness. Inspired by Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik, Rabbi Katz argues that Jewish communities focus too much energy on our “majestic personalities” by creating big events and dynamic programming. Instead, we need to nourish our “covenantal personalities” and our drive for deep and meaningful connection. In doing so, Rabbi Katz argues, we create deeper, more meaningful communities; communities where members feel less lonely and where we can come to be nourished and supported.
Rabbi Marc Katz is the rabbi of Temple Ner Tamid in Bloomfield, New Jersey. He is the author of Heart of Loneliness: How Jewish Wisdom Can Help You Cope and Find Comfort, based on his Eli Talk.
