Kolot: Voices from The Ark Synagogue

Epizode

• The Danger of the One Who Alone Knows the Way 27.06.2026 11min

  In this sermon the speaker links Gabriella’s Bat Mitzvah to the story of Pinchas in Parashat Balak, warning against the temptation of single‑person saviors. Listeners will hear how the rabbis contain Pinchas’s zeal, valuing debate, humility, and collective decision‑making as the true hallmarks of Jewish maturity and responsible leadership. The talk also connects these ancient lessons to today’s political moment, urging us to seek leaders who listen and include diverse voices. ★ Support this podcast ★
• The Hidden Wells That Sustain Us 20.06.2026 9min

  This sermon by Rabbi Lea Mühlstein invites listeners to reflect on the often-overlooked contributions of individuals who sustain communities and make a difference in quiet, unassuming ways. Using the story of Miriam from the Torah, Rabbi Mühlstein explores the theme of recognising and appreciating the 'hidden wells' that provide sustenance and support in our lives. The sermon encourages listeners to notice and honour those whose presence and labour are often taken for granted. ★ Support this podcast ★
• When Words Fall Against Stone 19.06.2026 11min

  In this sermon, Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores a pivotal moment in Moses' leadership journey from Parashat Chukat. When tasked by God to speak to a rock to bring forth water, Moses instead strikes it with his staff, resulting in his disqualification from leading the people into the Promised Land. The rabbi examines the complexities of Moses' actions and the consequences, reflecting on the power of words, the difficulty of leadership, and the balance between action and compassion in the pursuit of justice. ★ Support this podcast ★
• Who Would Need Fences? 13.06.2026 13min

  This sermon explores the themes of community, volunteering, and Tikkun Olam (restitution of the world) through the lens of Parashat Korach and a Talmudic story known as the Oven of Achnai. The speaker discusses the importance of community and the impact of volunteering, highlighting that in a community bound by love and shared values, individualism is no match for the efficacy of collective action. The sermon also celebrates the volunteers and carers in the community, acknowledging their vital role in making the community function. ★ Support this podcast ★
• The Strength of Optimism 06.06.2026 8min

  Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the concept of chesed shel emet, or 'the truest act of kindness,' and how it can inspire optimism in our lives. He discusses the importance of living with loving-kindness, generosity, and truth, and how these values can help us navigate life's challenges. The sermon also reflects on the significance of community and the role of joy and beauty in our spiritual practices. ★ Support this podcast ★
• The Power of Words 30.05.2026 11min

  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 ★
• Close Enough to Hear Torah 23.05.2026 12min

  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 ★
• The Ineffable Name 22.05.2026 10min

  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 ★
• The Crown of a Good Name 16.05.2026 11min

  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 ★
• Am I Dreaming? 09.05.2026 12min

  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 ★
• Remembering the Light 08.05.2026 11min

  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 ★
• Sacred Time, Sacred People 01.05.2026 9min

  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 ★
• Facing Fear and Trauma 25.04.2026 10min

  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 ★
• Counting Time, Telling Stories 10.04.2026 9min

  Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores the significance of the Omer, a period of counting from Pesach to Shavuot, and how it can help us reframe our relationship with time and storytelling. She reflects on the ancient practice of counting grain and its connection to our modern lives, encouraging listeners to consider the stories they tell about their days and the moments of meaning they cultivate. By examining the Omer's spiritual significance, Rabbi Kulikovsky offers a fresh perspective on how we can use this period to deepen our sense of purpose and connection. ★ Support this podcast ★
• A Garden for the Grieving Heart 08.04.2026 8min

  Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the poem 'The Garden of Song' by Moses Ibn Ezra, written during a time of personal exile and hardship. He discusses the challenges of comforting those who are grieving, using the example of Rabban Yohanan ben Zakkai and Rabbi Eleazar's parable. The sermon offers a nuanced perspective on how to approach grief and find solace in the presence of others. ★ Support this podcast ★
• The Only Question 07.04.2026 8min

  In this sermon, Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores the question of what keeps us enslaved, using the story of the Israelites' journey to freedom. She argues that it's not the external obstacles that hold us back, but our own fears and the stories we tell ourselves. Rabbi Kulikovsky shares a personal story and insights from Jewish tradition to help listeners confront their own fears and take steps towards freedom. ★ Support this podcast ★
• Sacred Earth, Shared Duty 04.04.2026 7min

  In this sermon, Michelle Gorman explores the intersection of Jewish ethics and environmental responsibility. She discusses how Jewish teachings emphasize the importance of living sustainably, protecting the natural world, and finding balance in our relationship with the Earth. You'll learn about the concept of tikkun olam, or repairing the world, and how Jewish texts like the Song of Songs highlight the interconnectedness of humanity and nature. ★ Support this podcast ★
• Searching for Chametz in a Time of War 02.04.2026 15min

  Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores the deeper meaning of Pesach, arguing that freedom is not an end point but a call to responsibility. She discusses the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of moral accountability, using current events in Israel to illustrate the need for honest self-examination and the pursuit of justice. The sermon challenges listeners to consider how they are using their own freedom and power. ★ Support this podcast ★
• Keep the Fire Burning 28.03.2026 8min

  Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores the significance of Shabbat HaGadol, the day before Pesach, in the face of uncertainty and tragedy. She draws on Parashat Tzav to discuss the importance of maintaining hope and living fully, even when the world seems broken. The sermon emphasizes the need to build a vibrant, joyful Judaism that matters to young people. ★ Support this podcast ★
• Will you Choose Judaism? 21.03.2026 9min

  Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores the question of why one would choose Judaism, particularly at a crossroads in life. She discusses the tension between Judaism's particular and universal voices, citing Rabbi John Rayner, and explains how Judaism's specificity is what allows it to contribute to the world. The sermon emphasizes that Judaism is not something one has, but something one does, requiring active choice and participation to continue. Rabbi Mühlstein encourages the graduates to see themselves as partners in creating a better world and to consider how Judaism can be a language to help build it. ★ Support this podcast ★