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# Congregation Etz Chaim

Conservative Synagogue Marietta, GA

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.etzchaim.net/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Mezuzot in Todays Climate](https://www.etzchaim.net/2026/01/mezuzot-in-todays-climate/) - Some time ago, a new Jewish family moved into our community and asked me to help them put up their mezuzah. It was a simple request. I love to do it. We stood at the front door, and just as I was about to begin, they hesitated. They asked quietly and apologetically if I could
- [5786 Rosh Hashanah Day 1 Sermon](https://www.etzchaim.net/2025/10/5786-rosh-hashanah-day-1-sermon/) - What Does it Mean to Be Human in the Era of AI? Rabbi Dan Dorsch, Congregation Etz Chaim A Jewish pessimist leans over to a Jewish optimist and says, “Oy, it can’t get any worse.” The Jewish optimist turns to him and says, “Don’t worry…Yes, it can.” Friends, that exchange feels especially fitting in a
- [Tzom Gedalya](https://www.etzchaim.net/2025/09/tzom-gedalya/) - There is no event worse placed on the Jewish calendar than Tzom Gedalya. The fast has nothing to do with any of the themes we’ve been discussing over the past two days. It has absolutely zero to do with the much longer, more significant fast we will be observing on Yom Kippur next week. Instead,
- [Cobb County Meeting Invocation - Rabbi Dan Dorsch](https://www.etzchaim.net/2025/09/cobb-county-meeting-invocation-rabbi-dan-dorsch/) - Friends, as we gather in this chamber today, on the Jewish calendar we are in the concluding weeks of the Hebrew month of Elul—a time in our tradition for self-reflection, accountability, and spiritual preparation, that will culminate in our celebration of the Jewish High Holy Days, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Therefore, Elul calls each
- [Connecting Through Community](https://www.etzchaim.net/2025/08/connecting-through-community/) - Our world has become so transactional sometimes that it makes me sad. Once upon a time, you knew your bank teller’s name and they knew yours. It didn’t take you five different prompts to get a customer service person on the phone. Today, efficiency and price take priority, and personal connection is treated as an
- [Harvard and the Iraqi War](https://www.etzchaim.net/2025/05/harvard-yard/) - The first time I went to visit Harvard, George W. Bush was dropping bombs over Iraq. I vaguely remember the constant refrain of OutKast’s “Bombs over Baghdad” playing in my head. Walking through campus, my friend Arie (who attended Harvard) and I couldn’t help but see the massive protest gathered at Harvard Yard that weekend.
- [Knowing the Answers](https://www.etzchaim.net/2025/05/knowing-the-answers/) - In the aftermath of the various quiz show scandals in the 1960s, in which contestants were fed answers in advance of the show to placate sponsors’ desires for higher ratings–Merv Griffin‘s wife was sitting next to him on an airplane. She told him, “We should make a new quiz show.” He replied: “Why would we
- [Living Closer to the Heavens](https://www.etzchaim.net/2025/03/living-closer-to-the-heavens/) - We don’t think about it all that much, but here in East Cobb we currently live over 1000 feet above sea level. When I was growing up in Philadelphia, I was living 39 feet above sea level. Is Mountain air good for the soul? Is that why everyone here looks so much younger than everyone
- [The Law is Passionate](https://www.etzchaim.net/2025/02/the-law-is-passionate/) - Two years ago I was running late to a funeral. I was driving 68 miles an hour on Roswell Road. That’s when I saw the flashing lights. A cop pulled me over to give me a ticket. I was understandably anxious. And so when the cop walked up to my window, I said: “Officer
- [“Surely, this will save Conservative Judaism”](https://www.etzchaim.net/2024/12/14289/) - There’s a Facebook group called “Surely, this will save Conservative Judaism.” It has 4000 members and is billed as a satirical group. For as long as many of us can remember, Conservative Jews have been decrying the demise of Conservative Judaism, and everyone thinks they have a magic bullet about how to save it. Many
- [Spirituality Versus Religion](https://www.etzchaim.net/2024/11/spirituality-versus-religion/) - People sometimes use the words spirituality and religion interchangeably. The words are worlds apart. Spirituality implies seeking a deep, individual connection with God. People who say they are “spiritual, but not religious” practice yoga and meditation, but who would not be caught dead in a synagogue. Religion, by contrast, argues for the power of connection
- [Why Our Silent Hakafah Failed](https://www.etzchaim.net/2024/10/why-our-silent-hakafah-failed/) - Prior to Simchat Torah there was some discussion about how our shul would acknowledge October 7, 2023, which had fallen on Simchat Torah. We concocted an elaborate plan. We would commemorate the loss on Shemini Atzeret during Yizkor. We would then dance our first hakafah on Simchat Torah that evening in silence, while going on
- [Dormancy](https://www.etzchaim.net/2024/09/11587/) - Over the years, I’ve heard the word “lapsed” used to describe a person who is not particularly connected to his or her faith. Recently, however, I’ve come up with something else. I am going to start to use the word “dormant.” Faith never truly exits a person. Even when they feel disconnected, it lies in
- [Do the Math](https://www.etzchaim.net/2024/08/do-the-math/) - For the past eight years I’ve lived in Georgia, I would say conservatively, I spend at least two minutes a day, four days a week, stuck at the traffic light at the intersection of Johnson Ferry and Roswell Road. So, I finally decided to do the math. 2 minutes x 4 days x 52 weeks
- [Buyer Beware](https://www.etzchaim.net/2024/08/buyer-beware/) - As I drank my $6.99 Diet Coke at the ball game the other night, I had somewhat of a revelation. Earlier that day, I had gone out for lunch and spent $2.50 for the same Diet Coke. A few days prior, I had spent $20 to buy 48 cans of Diet Coke at the grocery
- [Where everybody knows your name](https://www.etzchaim.net/2024/08/9832/) - “Cheers” is the place where “everybody knows your name.” But places like Cheers are getting harder and harder to find. I don’t need to tell you that there has been a major shift in the way that Americans have become consumers. Once upon a time, you would visit and support a small business not because
- [](https://www.etzchaim.net/2024/07/7350/) - This past Sunday Amy bought us tickets to see Beauty and the Beast at the Marietta Performing Arts Center (at Marietta High School). She saw an ad for the show hanging up in Marietta Square and thought it would be a good activity for the kids to stay cool during an otherwise hot week.
- [Holy Moments...](https://www.etzchaim.net/2024/06/holy-moments/) - Walking down the main aisle in Target, I spotted a more senior congregant. We had not seen one another in some time. We saw one another, smiled widely, laughed for joy, and embraced. I then turned to my right. At the very same time not five feet away there was a younger woman with her
- [](https://www.etzchaim.net/2023/05/883/) - As printed in the Marietta Daily Journal, May 12, 2023 I have to admit that I am a little embarrassed to be writing this letter. I’ve been the rabbi of the largest synagogue in Cobb County for nearly seven years. During that time, I’ve experienced no outward antisemitism (Jew hatred) against me personally. On the
- [](https://www.etzchaim.net/2023/08/881/) - This past week at a local grocery store, my patience was running thin. The checkout boy clearly had no discernible skills when it came to identifying produce or any non-barcoded grocery. I was polite and all smiles on the outside, but seething on the inside. Ten minutes. How could someone so inept waste so much
- [Writing a New Pandemic Sefer Torah](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/08/writing-a-new-pandemic-sefer-torah/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3IiwkwXr7bA
- [Ki Teitzei: Striving to be a Worthy Person](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/08/ki-teitzei-striving-to-be-a-worthy-person/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNvs0TT6jtY
- [Ki Tavo: Blessing the Good and the Bad](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/09/ki-tavo-blessing-the-good-and-the-bad/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=poXvCBctI-c
- [Nitzavim-Vayeilech: Anger](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/09/nitzavim-vayeilech-anger/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxS2zlmU59k
- [Rosh Hashannah: Gadol Avoni Minso-Playing through Pain in the New Year](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/09/rosh-hashannah-gadol-avoni-minso-playing-through-pain-in-the-new-year/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xbKEKF0BKWE
- [Ha'azinu: RBG and Teshuva](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/09/haazinu-rbg-and-teshuva/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbIsqG36e10
- [Kol Nidre: Canceling Out Cancel Culture](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/09/kol-nidre-canceling-out-cancel-culture/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVgnxp0WN4A
- [Sukkot: A Judaism of Flexibility](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/10/sukkot-a-judaism-of-flexibility/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiH2e431TkQ
- [Shmini Atzeret (Yizkor):  Scrolls of Fire](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/10/shmini-atzeret-yizkor-scrolls-of-fire/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDGplY0L4gY
- [Bereshit: We are all created in god's image](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/10/bereshit-we-are-all-created-in-gods-image/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKXSO1y8kkI
- [Noach: The Lightning is a Yellow Fork](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/10/noach-the-lightning-is-a-yellow-fork/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3o1YVfUUQqo
- [Lech Lecha: Choosing Between Familiarity and the Unknown](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/10/lech-lecha-choosing-between-familiarity-and-the-unknown/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58SqM1-yGX8
- [Vayera: Veteran's Day Message](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/11/vayera-veterans-day-message/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iZDgoaepIo
- [Chayei Sara: The Why that helps us overcome the how](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/11/chayei-sara-the-why-that-helps-us-overcome-the-how/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7OC2ReLb08
- [Toldot: Do Your Moral Duty](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/11/toldot-do-your-moral-duty/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6WX9rcJmQc
- [Vayetze: Thanksgiving Message](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/11/vayetze-thanksgiving-message/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTZi0DYHMGE
- [Vayishlach: I Saw God in Your Face](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/12/vayishlach-i-saw-god-in-your-face/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7IblURNnpn0
- [Vayeshev: Putting the Chanu Back in Chanukkah](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/12/vayeshev-putting-the-chanu-back-in-chanukkah/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WIRyabQf2jc
- [Miketz: Second Chances](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/12/miketz-second-chances/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeQLckm_Scs
- [Vayigash](https://www.etzchaim.net/2020/12/vayigash-2/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXUzi3HM44M
- [Vayechi](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/01/vayechi-2/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KaudqNlX3RU
- [Shemot: Death to 2020](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/01/shemot-death-to-2020/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2de9XllS2Ws
- [Va'era: Covid Fatigue](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/01/vaera-covid-fatigue/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNfPzEyzZmM
- [Two-Minute Torah: Why Pharaoh Failed](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/01/two-minute-torah-why-pharaoh-failed/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4igLqGMzwYE
- [Yitro: I Saw You at Sinai](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/02/yitro-i-saw-you-at-sinai/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-cibieLqPY
- [Mishpatim](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/02/mishpatim-2/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSjW4a4LIbw
- [Terumah: Were Esther’s Children Jewish?](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/02/terumah-were-esthers-children-jewish/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obtWAKWj5e4
- [Tetzaveh: Responding to a Zoom Bombing](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/02/tetzaveh-responding-to-a-zoom-bombing/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEpjWsRhJb0
- [Ki Tisa](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/03/ki-tisa-2/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEzuC3hDcno
- [Ask The Rabbi](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/03/ask-the-rabbi/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl8kX_PpINs
- [Passover 1: Having Too Much Empathy on Pesach](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/03/passover-1-having-too-much-empathy-on-pesach/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ggk7APzrZZM
- [Passover 2: Top 10 Haggadot for 5781](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/03/passover-2-top-10-haggadot-for-5781/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyJPxf6Nm0E
- [Passover 7: Why We Read Shir HaShirim on Pesach](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/04/passover-7-why-we-read-shir-hashirim-on-pesach/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDJa8mEllSM
- [Passover 8: Yizkor: Remembering Hurtful People at Yizkor](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/04/passover-8-yizkor-remembering-hurtful-people-at-yizkor/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3qQjffks3Q
- [Shmini: Treif Matzah Pizza](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/04/shmini-treif-matzah-pizza/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emhT2CuW80A
- [Achrei Mot-Kedoshim](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/04/achrei-mot-kedoshim/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ScBXhf1nyiQ
- [Emor: Putting Your Whole Self In](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/05/emor-putting-your-whole-self-in/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=On6485UrBeE
- [Behar-Bechukotai: Is Zoom Prayer for Real, or Is it Fantasy?](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/05/behar-bechukotai-is-zoom-prayer-for-real-or-is-it-fantasy/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMu2C4fjo2o
- [Bamidbar: A Real Story of Israel by the Numbers](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/05/bamidbar-a-real-story-of-israel-by-the-numbers/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1atruLkN7c
- [Nasso](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/05/nasso-2/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kLtCh6SLV0A
- [Beha'alotcha](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/05/behaalotcha-2/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdrUqMfWp54
- [Shelach Lecha: Can Gossip Be a Good Thing?](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/06/shelach-lecha-can-gossip-be-a-good-thing/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlVWrboJjuw
- [Korach](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/06/korach-2/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4P4LOat2dI
- [Chukat: Learning How to Play the Game](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/06/chukat-learning-how-to-play-the-game/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9BJr2kxzSQ
- [Balak: Ma Tovu-Making Our Synagogues Welcoming Places](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/06/balak-ma-tovu-making-our-synagogues-welcoming-places/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uES1YSKulHc
- [Pinchas: Life after The Plague](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/07/pinchas-life-after-the-plague/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCqKmoJFSGc
- [Technology and Livestream](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/07/technology-and-livestream/) - When I was a kid at Ramah we used to listen to a song called Video Killed the Radio Star. It was only years later that I realized that the song was an important lesson in false prophecies. The song, which came out in 1981, was a lament to the end of radio. With the
- [Vaeschanan: My Unorthodox Life](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/07/vaeschanan-my-unorthodox-life/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nE0DYIpqzQ
- [Mental Health and the Olympics](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/07/mental-health-and-the-olympics/) - Was Simone Biles right to sit out the rest of the Olympics, given the challenges to her mental health? Most people, myself included - are sympathetic, if not completely understanding of her plight. Simone Biles is twenty-four years old. We have children and grandchildren who are around twenty-four years old. Some of us on the
- [Eikev](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/07/eikev-2/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cog8MOd5Fe8
- [Caring for God's Country](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/08/caring-for-gods-country/) - The trip to St. Simons was beautiful, except for the oil patches all over the beach. The weekend destination wedding in Park City, Utah was glorious, except for the jet stream that blew in the air from the California wildfires to obstruct the otherwise majestic views. Climate change is real, undeniable, and destroying the majesty
- [Ki Teitzei: Speaking Up Against Wrongdoing](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/08/ki-teitzei-speaking-up-against-wrongdoing/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o90dGCdYp7c
- [Understanding Our Neighbors](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/08/understanding-our-neighbors/) - Last Friday night at Shabbat in the Park I snuck away from the crowd for five minutes to take Haley to the restroom. While a friend took her inside the girls’ room, I began to make small talk with another parent standing outside. She asked what our group was doing, as it looked like we
- [Ki Tavo: Negatives That Mean Positive](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/08/ki-tavo-negatives-that-mean-positive/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jadZKis8HLI
- [Nitzavim: Charity vs. Kindness](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/09/nitzavim-charity-vs-kindness/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRQ-gBq_G9A
- [Sukkot Day 1](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/09/sukkot-day-1/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHBVN6bCixs
- [](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/10/763/) - They’re Going to Come Back, It’s Just Going to Be Different Recently, an article was posted on a site called Ministry Architects, a church consulting service. The title of the post, for better and for worse, was “They’re Not Coming Back,” and points to many of the trends in the decline of organized religion that
- [Vayeira: What Will Make Our Story Torah Worthy?](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/10/vayeira-what-will-make-our-story-torah-worthy/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKCxFFFsPCA
- [Toldot: Veterans Day Remarks](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/11/toldot-veterans-day-remarks/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWVZ7tbo7fs
- [NASA](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/11/nasa/) - After the success of its Cassini probe, NASA is building another probe to launch into deep space. There’s only one challenge. Unlike the last one, which after twenty years was complete, this new probe is expected to last for a century. It is an impossibility that any of the scientists present at the launch will
- [Vayishlach](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/11/vayishlach/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZC4dqnCVQtM
- [Vayeishev: Be like the Maccabees](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/11/vayeishev-be-like-the-maccabees/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIXXTR5qcq0
- [My Greek Physical Therapist and Chanukah](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/12/my-greek-physical-therapist-and-chanukah/) - I had a rather humorous encounter at physical therapy. My excellent therapist had grown up as a Brownie and learned about Chanukah as a game of dreidel. Could I tell her the real story about what the holiday was all about? So as she dug into me, I did. I told her about the struggle
- [Vayigash](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/12/vayigash/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=amMeNfiiqOo
- [Vayechi](https://www.etzchaim.net/2021/12/vayechi/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybMnvfs3WC8
- [](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/01/743/) - The entire time I was in Canada I was petrified of getting COVID. We had our mandatory PCR COVIDs test before entering Canada. I was fine. But a day after our arrival, I felt like I was catching a cold. That’s when the anxiety kicked in to full swing. If I had Omicron, would I
- [](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/01/740/) - Rabbi Israel Salanter, the ideological founder of the Mussar movement, is reported to have said that ““A rabbi whose community does not disagree with him is no rabbi. A rabbi who fears his community is no mensch.” Thankfully, I can share with you that I’ve never feared my community. On the contrary: I’ve been embraced,
- [Yitro](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/01/yitro/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_46kdABi63I
- [Mishpatim](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/01/mishpatim/) - Rabbi Lewis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3ZWUHBsISQ Rabbi Dorsch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hijwHqqINII
- [](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/02/733/) - As the parent of an eight and a four year old, I’ve pretty much become an expert on the new Disney movie Encanto. My kids know the words to every song. We have dance parties every other night as our Amazon Alexa plays the music. I’ve watched the movie over their shoulder while doing dishes or
- [Ki Tisa](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/02/ki-tisa/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuoxBYRJAvo
- [Vayakhel](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/02/vayakhel/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0QzymhyJn4
- [Pekudei](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/03/pekudei/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MuAUQ-7pdP8
- [Vayikra](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/03/vayikra/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJI1Z3bVNSI
- [Shmini](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/03/shmini/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtPGa-WVIPw
- [](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/04/721/) - My new American Express card came in the mail last week. Only for the first time, I noticed my card was different: there was an absence of raised account numbers on the front of the card. I read online that this is a new measure due to security. But more likely, it’s because the very
- [Passover Day 7](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/04/passover-day-7/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGXD6c7GuJE
- [](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/04/717/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFA_oZc_G-A
- [Pesach Yizkor Sermon 5782/2022](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/05/pesach-yizkor-sermon-5782-2022/) - On October 20, 2020, just months into the pandemic, Lyon Gardiner Tyler, Jr. died at the age of 95 in Franklin Tennessee. Today, I mention him not because he lived a particularly storied career. Or because he was an SEC football fan (I am sure he was). Or because he somehow lived a life of
- [Remembering Our Loved Ones](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/05/remembering-our-loved-ones/) - It’s hard for me to believe that it’s been ten years since she’s been gone. At unveilings, I typically tell those assembled how one year after a person has died we begin to make the transition from mourning to memory. For me, it’s been ten years, and I think I am still in part making
- [Bechukotai](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/05/bechukotai/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Br_yWTUar4
- [Shavuot 2 (Yizkor)](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/06/shavuot-2-yizkor/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrCqGZHLLGk
- [Nasso](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/06/nasso/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgtetVHK3KA
- [](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/06/703/) - Why does Yitro go home? Why doesn’t he stay with the Jewish people? For those of you keeping score, Yitro is Moses’ Father-in-Law. He hears the news that the Israelites have left Egypt. Ecstatic, he rushes out to reunite with Moses, bringing his wife and children with him. He gives Moses some good advice. He
- [Beha'alotcha](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/06/behaalotcha/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNeNcSs_1io
- [Sh'lach](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/06/shlach/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQF_niSjfqY
- [Korach](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/07/korach/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjSg3DvSfFI
- [](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/07/695/) - I just finished Mashechet Yevamot for Daf Yomi. Sort of. I would be lying if I didn’t say that this was the first tractate where I skipped around the bit: for three reasons. Looking back at when I began Daf Yomi during the pandemic, I realize now that I had more free time to study
- [Matot-Masei](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/07/matot-masei/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkLkdAlS5iU
- [Devarim](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/08/devarim/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNuKupn-2Zo
- [Vaetchanan](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/08/vaetchanan/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nR7v4fvJUM
- [Eikev](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/08/eikev/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=086kE96d7oQ
- [Reeh: How to Have Difficult Conversations about your Faith and Make Jewish Decisions in a Non-Jewish World](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/08/reeh-how-to-have-difficult-conversations-about-your-faith-and-make-jewish-decisions-in-a-non-jewish-world/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGkJWfmp5Jc&t=10s The past week or two has been a week of new decisions and experiences for the Dorsch family. With that in mind, I want to share two stories, talk about their connection to the parasha, and explain what I believe Torah can teach us about how Jews can make better Jewish decisions living in
- [Shoftim](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/09/shoftim/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36Y21VOSD3A
- [Ki Tavo](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/09/ki-tavo/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHu_3wj6V4o
- [Nitzavim](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/09/nitzavim/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHu_3wj6V4o
- [Rosh Hashana 5783 - Day1](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/09/rosh-hashana-5783-day1/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8ZVavXAiLo
- [Kol Nidre 5783](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/10/kol-nidre-5783/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Axo9uxBb-iA
- [Yizkor Yom Kippur 5783: Your Life, by Train](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/10/yizkor-yom-kippur-5783-your-life-by-train/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSLB2QwuQCI Very few people know, at least until right now, that I am a lucid dreamer. This means that when I am asleep I am aware that I am dreaming, and when I wake up, I remember everything that I’ve dreamt. 55% of people have had a lucid dream once: only 1 in 5 adults
- [Ha'azinu](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/10/haazinu/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmPQpPCGxrY
- [Sukkot 5783 Day 1](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/10/sukkot-5783-day-1/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iE3VB69pbE4
- [Sukkot 5783 Day 2](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/10/sukkot-5783-day-2/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fd3cR5U2g8g
- [Pride Shabbat 2022](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/10/pride-shabbat-2022/) - Why should we observe Pride Shabbat every year? In my view, it’s for the same reason that we return to Beresheit each year. As Jews, we recognize and believe deeply in the importance of studying Torah as a lifelong obligation, commitment and opportunity. We understand that every year, we have new life lessons to learn.
- [Parashat Noach: Kanye West: The Price of Remaining Silent](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/10/parashat-noach-kanye-west-the-price-of-remaining-silent/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5i3hUEEmX0 Upon canceling his documentary contract, Lucas Shaw from MRC Entertainment put it best: He wrote: “Kanye West is a producer and sampler of music. Only last week, he sampled and remixed a classic tune that has charted for over 3000 years - the lie that Jews are evil and conspire to control the world
- [Lech Lecha](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/11/lech-lecha/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNR6yKO4LJc
- [Vayera](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/11/vayera/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZ8qW52eTjE&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.etzchaim.net%2F
- [Toldot](https://www.etzchaim.net/2022/12/toldot/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G91vFvLYOa4
- [The Lottery Ticket](https://www.etzchaim.net/2023/04/the-lottery-ticket/) - The last thing that I did to mark the weekend of my fortieth birthday was to buy a lottery ticket. We were leaving Atlantic City (having broken even, I can proudly say) after a beautiful Shabbat. We stopped at a rest stop and feeling lucky, I bought a Powerball ticket. It’s been several weeks. I still
- [Constructive Conversations](https://www.etzchaim.net/2023/05/constructive-conversations/) - At some point in my rabbinate (I am deliberately being ambiguous as to the timeline here), I received a rather chutzpadik complaint. In fairness to this person, the complaint itself was not the problem. She may even have had a point. What made the complaint chutzpadik was that the person who issued the complaint was
- [Music Evokes Memories and Emotions](https://www.etzchaim.net/2023/09/music-evokes-memories-and-emotions/) - There are certain songs that I can’t listen to without sobbing. Anything by James Taylor and Carol King. Puff the Magic Dragon. Most of what plays on the “The Bridge” channel on SiriusXM. What is amazing is this inevitable sobbing begins before any of the lyrics are actually recited. I just have to hear a few chords. My
- [Be-naareynu U-vizukunaynu: Moving Forward Together](https://www.etzchaim.net/2023/09/be-naareynu-u-vizukunaynu-moving-forward-together/) - Rosh Hashanah 5784: Be-naareynu U-vizukunaynu: Moving Forward Together This past year has been one of two major milestones in my life. The first is a milestone birthday that reminds me how old I’ve become since I arrived at Etz Chaim. No one tells you when you are in your 30s that your body and your
- [My Trip to Israel: Finding Justice for the Jewish People](https://www.etzchaim.net/2023/11/my-trip-to-israel-finding-justice-for-the-jewish-people/) - So, first thing is first. I know that parents are told never to lie to their kids. I want to apologize to Zev and Haley, and maybe to some of you too, by saying I was going to New York when I was really going to Israel. But I want to assure you that I had
- [Doing the Right Thing](https://www.etzchaim.net/2024/02/doing-the-right-thing/) - There are many reasons why I keep my own personal political beliefs close to the chest. First and foremost is because I do not want anyone to believe that a particular sermon I give or a stance that our synagogue takes is rooted in my own personal politics. Instead of letting politics guide us, I
- [Taking Responsibility](https://www.etzchaim.net/2024/02/taking-responsibility/) - I was driving toward a traffic light on East Cobb Drive the other day when a woman in a black Maserati SUV backed into my car. She had tried to make a right turn, pulled halfway into the intersection, and then decided that she didn’t have enough time. As she backed up rather quickly, I
- [Purim: A Lesson in Learning to Let Go](https://www.etzchaim.net/2024/03/purim-a-lesson-in-learning-to-let-go/) - There are many lessons that we can take away from Purim. But the one that I’ve always been partial to is the importance of learning to “let go.” We all have that one thing. A painful memory. A person who treated us badly. Days, or even years later, it continues to nag us. Most

## Pages

- [Home](https://www.etzchaim.net/) - Congregation Etz Chaim – a progressive, egalitarian Conservative synagogue serving Marietta, Cobb County, and the Atlanta Jewish community.
- [Shavuot](https://www.etzchaim.net/jewish-life/holidays-festivals/shavuot/) - Shavuot Happenings Erev Shavuot – Thursday, May 216:30 p.m. Minyan7:00 p.m. Dinner and Tikkun Leil Shavuot (Click to RSVP)Shavuot (day 1) – Friday, May 22 9:30 a.m. Services and Yizkor6:30 p.m. Shavuot and Kabbalat Shabbat ServicesShavuot (day 2) -Saturday, May 23 9:30 a.m Shavuot and Shabbat Services1:00 p.m. Shavuot Water Festival (click to RSVP) Important Changes to Our
- [Religious School](https://www.etzchaim.net/learning/religious-school/) - At Congregation Etz Chaim, each and every child is valued for their distinct individuality; they are met with the warmth of our school community, or kehillah, inspiring a love of Jewish learning at every stage of development.The educational journey at Congregation Etz Chaim begins with our licensed, accredited preschool which serves our youngest congregants, encouraging
- [<em>Voice of Chaim</em> Newsletter](https://www.etzchaim.net/happenings/voice-of-chaim-newsletter/) - Be “in the know” about special programs and events in our monthly publication, the Voice of Chaim.For the May 2026 Voice of Chaim, please click here.For a downloadable version of the synagogue calendar for May, click this link: May 2026Our weekly Etz Blast will give you up-to-date information and links to sign up for upcoming programs.
- [Leadership](https://www.etzchaim.net/about-us/leadership/) - Meet the lay leaders at Congregation Etz Chaim, a Conservative synagogue in Marietta that serves the Jewish community of Cobb County in the north Atlanta area.
- [Passover](https://www.etzchaim.net/jewish-life/holidays-festivals/passover/) - Passover Schedule Wed Apr 1 6:45 a.m. Fast of the First-born service 7:45 a.m. Bagel Breakfast following services 9:30 a.m. Burning of Chametz and “Touch a Truck” 11:36 a.m. Latest time to eat chametz 12:39 p.m. Deadline to get your Chametz form to the Rabbi Deadline for Burning of Chametz 6:00 p.m. First Night Seder (at Etz Chaim) 7:40 p.m. Candle Lighting Thu
- [Passover Guide](https://www.etzchaim.net/passover-guide/) - The Rabbinical Assembly Pesaḥ Guide תשפ״וThe Committee on Jewish Law & Standards (CJLS) Kashrut Subcommittee (click for full text) Preparing the Home/Cleaning before Passover Before fulfilling the obligation of bedikat ḥameitz (see footnote 2), and to avoid the prohibitions of not owning/seeing/finding ḥameitz during Pesaḥ, clean and remove ḥameitz from areas within our domains in which
- [SMS Terms](https://www.etzchaim.net/sms-terms/) - SMS Terms of Service - Congregation SMS Programs By opting in to receive text messages from Congregation Etz Chaim, you agree to these SMS Terms of Service. Program DescriptionCongregation SMS programs may include Minyan Alerts and other congregation communications such as reminders, signups, cancellations, and operational alerts. Eligibility and ConsentYou must provide express consent to
- [SMS Privacy](https://www.etzchaim.net/sms-privacy/) - SMS Privacy Policy - Congregation Etz Chaim Congregation Etz Chaim respects your privacy. This SMS Privacy Policy explains how we collect and use information in connection with our SMS text messaging programs, including Minyan Alerts and future congregation messaging programs. Information We CollectMobile phone numberMessage interaction data (such as opt-in, opt-out, HELP/STOP activity)Consent metadata (timestamp,
- [System Inventory Snapshot](https://www.etzchaim.net/system-inventory-snapshot/) - System Inventory Snapshot Last generated: Platform DB Name: DB User: WP-Cron: Theme Active theme: Child theme: Theme folders: Customizer CSS: Custom Code MU Plugins: Active Plugins (Auto) Navigation Site Admin Handbook Website Governance Change Log
- [Minyan Signup](https://www.etzchaim.net/minyan-signup/) - Minyan Maker LOG IN or create an account Minyan Maker uses its own login that is separate from Etz Chaim ShulCloud. Changes here will not affect your ShulCloud login. Email address Please enter a valid email address Password Please enter a valid password Log In FORGOT PASSWORD? Open a Support Ticket Click here to report
- [Sisterhood](https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/sisterhood/) - Congregation Etz Chaim Sisterhood, a member of the Women’s League for Conservative Judaism, is a supportive and caring community of women of all ages providing countless benefits to the synagogue, Religious School, Preschool, Youth Department, the community at large, and our valued members. We offer year-round programming, including Mah Jongg, Book Club, Rosh Chodesh minyan, and
- [Professional Staff](https://www.etzchaim.net/about-us/professional-staff/) - Marty Gilbert, Executive Director mgilbert@etzchaim.net Marty Gilbert grew up in Brooklyn, New York and has spent the majority of his adult life in East Brunswick, New Jersey. He is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with a B.A. in English. Marty enjoyed a successful professional career as a general manager for various retail companies
- [Daily Minyan](https://www.etzchaim.net/jewish-life/our-services/daily-minyan/) - We come together to experience the power of community prayer.Congregation Etz Chaim hosts one of the few daily minyanim outside of the Perimeter.Morning Minyanim are Monday through Friday at 7:00 a.m. and Sunday at 9:15 a.m. and are held in The Allan and Vivian Levine Family Chapel.Evening Minyanim are Monday through Thursday and Sunday at 6:30 p.m. and
- [About Us](https://www.etzchaim.net/about-us/) - Welcome Our Rabbis Professional Staff Leadership Our Facilities
- [Golden Anniversary Silent Auction](https://www.etzchaim.net/golden-anniversary-silent-auction/) - It’s time for the Congregation Etz Chaim Golden Anniversary Silent Auction BIDDING IS NOW OPEN! Click here to register, browse, and bid: Silent Auction Bidding Site Bidding closes: Sunday, April 27 at 8:30 p.m. A few important notes before you start placing your winning bids: There are two pages of items to bid on – be sure to
- [Camp Ruach](https://www.etzchaim.net/learning/camp-ruach/) - Congregation Etz Chaim offers a summer camp for children 14 months and walking to rising Kindergarteners.Join Camp Ruach! and give your child a wonderful summer experience! Your camper will enjoy daily water play, crafts, music, sports, games, in-house field trips, and much, much more! Our qualified staff of well-trained, energetic, vibrant adults and teen counselors will energize
- [Young Adults](https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/young-adults/) - Congregation Etz Chaim’s Young Adults Group is open to Jews in their 20’s and 30’s. Synagogue membership is not necessary, however, a reduced membership is offered and includes a High Holiday ticket. Programs vary from social events, holiday programs and social action opportunities. Events take place at Etz Chaim, as well as locations around the
- [Prime Timers](https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/prime-timers/) - The Prime Timers, formerly known as 3 Score More of Less, is an affinity group of congregants who no longer have children living at home and are in the prime of their lives. They build new friendships and enjoy social and cultural events by coming together for monthly programs.Past events have included: Atlanta Jewish Film
- [Men's Club](https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/mens-club/) - This photo was captured from our Livestream video and not taken on Shabbat.Congregation Etz Chaim’s Men’s Club is an affiliate of the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs, which aims to fulfill the mission of “Involving Jewish Men in Jewish Life”.Etz Chaim Men’s Club is an active and award-winning chapter with a strong and growing membership who
- [Around Jewish Atlanta](https://www.etzchaim.net/happenings/around-jewish-atlanta/) - Etz Chaim is proud to be a community partner with many of the Jewish organizations throughout the city of Atlanta. Some programs are held within our building, while many others are in collaboration with area synagogues and venues throughout the city.Take a look at the programs below which Etz Chaim is involved:
- [Submit A Ticket](https://www.etzchaim.net/submit-a-ticket/)
- [Life Cycle Events](https://www.etzchaim.net/jewish-life/life-cycle-events/) - Wedding Information Rabbi Dorsch is delighted to meet and provide counseling for all couples (synagogue members and non-members) who seek to understand how to build a Jewish home together. In addition to having successfully prepared couples for marriage, he is also a certified facilitator in the prestigious Prepare/Enrich program. Utilized by nearly four million couples
- [Youth Department](https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/youth-department/) - Jewish communal life is as significant for our youth as it is for our adults. In our world today, with increasing pressures and competitiveness, our youth need a safe space to call home, to ask questions, seek thoughtful answers, explore their spirituality and growth and socialize in meaningful ways.We are committed to United Synagogue Youth, the
- [Social Action](https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/social-action/) - At Etz Chaim, we care about the world around us. Through a variety of opportunities within Etz Chaim and the greater Atlanta community, Tikkun Olam is one of the cornerstones of Jewish tradition.We continue to participate in the following annual events: the Hunger Walk benefiting the Atlanta Community Food Bank and Kosher Pantry, knitting scarfs with
- [B'nai Mitzvah](https://www.etzchaim.net/learning/bnai-mitzvah/) - Etz Chaim is proud of its B’nai Mitzvah program, in which our students learn to chant from the Torah and their Haftarah, and to lead parts of our Shabbat service. In addition to working with an experienced and seasoned tutor, each Bar/Bat Mitzvah has special time to study their Torah portion alongside our rabbis, discuss
- [High Holidays](https://www.etzchaim.net/jewish-life/holidays-festivals/high-holidays/) - 2025/5786 Yamim Noraim - High Holidays Click here to Order High Holiday Tickets (guests, college students, parking, seating, usher registration, etc.) Note: If you are a member in good standing and do not require guest tickets, college tickets, young adult tickets, parking, seats, machzorim, or a lulav and etrog, you will automatically receive tickets and
- [Lilmode: Adult Education](https://www.etzchaim.net/learning/lilmode-adult-education/) - The pursuit of Jewish knowledge is a lifelong one, and the Lilmode (Lifelong, Impactful Learning Made for you! Open to all, Dedicated to Education) program offers opportunities for adults to continue expanding the horizons of Jewish learning. You’ll find a Jewish educational program or opportunity at Congregation Etz Chaim that’s a perfect fit for every member of your family, young and old alike.
- [Pride Alliance](https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/pride-alliance/) - CEC Pride Alliance “From Acceptance To Celebration”Congregation Etz Chaim’s Pride Alliance was established to help foster an embracing community for all of our members and guests, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. CEC is committed to educating and creating awareness around LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning/Queer, etc.) subjects, promoting allyship,
- [Roots Groups](https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/roots-groups/) - Roots: Small Group InitiativeHave you heard about Etz Chaim’s Roots Groups? These are interest-based small groups. Check out our active groups below and join in the fun! Do you have an idea, questions, or want to form a group? Let’s make it happen!Movie GroupThe Etz Chaim Roots Movie Group is looking for a new “leader”! This
- [Membership Form](https://www.etzchaim.net/join-us/membership-form/) - To fill out the Member Record online, click here. For a printable form, click here. It can be sent to Betsy Fitzwater at betsy@etzchaim.net or to our address below. It is the policy of Congregation Etz Chaim that no one is denied membership for financial reasons. If you cannot afford aspects of the fee schedule provided here or would
- [Tefillah Recordings and Pages](https://www.etzchaim.net/jewish-life/tefillah-recordings/) - Siddur Pages Weekday Services ShacharitMinchaMa’arivDaily Psalms Shabbat Services Kabbalat Shabbat & Ma’arivShabbat MorningMusaf 1Musaf 2Musaf 3 Rosh Chodesh Page Guide Chanukah Blessing Sheet Purim MegillatEsther Passover Pesach Haggadah (Part 1)Pesach Haggadah (Part 2)Pesach Morning ServiceDay 1 Torah & HaftorahDay 8 Torah & HaftorahPesach & Shavuot YizkorCounting the Omer Audio Recordings Friday Night Services Kabbalat Shabbat
- [Holidays & Festivals](https://www.etzchaim.net/jewish-life/holidays-festivals/)
- [Tisha B'Av](https://www.etzchaim.net/jewish-life/holidays-festivals/tisha-bav/) - Tisha B'Av Click Here to RSVP Selected Laws and Customs of Tisha B’Av-from JTS & The RAThe Ninth of Av is the saddest day in the Jewish calendar. According to the Talmud, God marked the Ninth of Av as a day of calamity because of the incident of the spies, recounted in Numbers 13-14, which took
- [College Connection](https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/college-connection/) - Do you have a college student in the family?We know you are busy preparing your college students for the start of a great school year. We are reaching out to remind you about updating contact information for Etz Chaim College Connection. Each year we purge the college lists to ensure we have the most updated
- [Giving](https://www.etzchaim.net/giving/) - Make a Donation Kol Nidre Campaign Giving Through Online Purchases Greeting Book GOAL Tax Credit – Preschool
- [Chai Five Teen Learning](https://www.etzchaim.net/learning/chai-five-teen-learning/) - At Etz Chaim, our students in 8th – 12th grades have the opportunity to continue their Jewish learning experiences after Bar and Bat Mitzvah. Through our Chai Five – Teen Learning Program, our teens engage in discussions that will continue to strengthen their connection to the synagogue and the rabbis. This is accomplished through a variety
- [Shabbat Services](https://www.etzchaim.net/jewish-life/our-services/shabbat-services/) - On Friday night, Shabbat Services will be both in-person and via Livestream. Click here to join us virtually. On Shabbat mornings, Rabbi Dorsch will hold Shabbat Morning services in the Radow Sanctuary at 9:30 a.m. Click here for Livestream Shabbat morning services on Facebook. Shabbat Services Friday evening Kabbalat Shabbat minyan at 6:30 p.m. Shabbat morning service is at 9:30 a.m. We
- [Our Rabbis](https://www.etzchaim.net/about-us/our-rabbis/) - Rabbi Daniel Dorsch Senior Rabbirabbidorsch@etzchaim.net Now, more than ever, Jews around the world need madrichim, spiritual mentors, to guide them through the challenges of twenty-first-century life. Rabbi Dorsch inspires our community by helping us to understand how living a life of Torah, Jewish values, and sacred choices can help us to meet these challenges. He
- [Welcome](https://www.etzchaim.net/about-us/welcome/) - We are a progressive, egalitarian, Conservative synagogue in Marietta that provides meaningful Jewish experiences in a welcoming, engaging environment.
- [Happenings](https://www.etzchaim.net/happenings/) - Voice of Chaim Newsletter Full Calendar The Drash Photo Galleries Around Jewish Atlanta
- [Full Calendar](https://www.etzchaim.net/happenings/full-calendar/) - [events_calendar long_events=”1″ has_search=”1″ scope=”all”]
- [Chesed Committee](https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/chesed-committee/) - Gemilut Chasadim… Join us in the Act of Loving KindnessCome be a part of our newly expanded Chesed Committee!There are a few ways you can choose to get involved and help us all feel more connected: Bikkur Cholim (visiting/helping those who are ill), providing support during a funeral, or welcoming a new baby with a
- [Greeting Book](https://www.etzchaim.net/giving/greeting-book/) - High Holiday Greeting & Remembrance Book and Art Contest We are no longer accepting submissions for the 2024/5785 High Holiday Greeting & Remembrance Book. Thank you for supporting Sisterhood. View the 2024/5785 Greeting & Remembrance Book
- [Gift Shop](https://www.etzchaim.net/gift-shop/) - Our Sisterhood is pleased to provide you with a shopping experience where you can purchase all of your Judaica. Our shop sells everything from tallitot to ritual objects and jewelry. We are one of the few congregations in the metro area that provide this service.Our hours of operation:Mondays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Tuesdays from
- [The Drash](https://www.etzchaim.net/happenings/the-drash/) - Mezuzot in Todays Climate January 23, 2026 Some time ago, a new Jewish family moved into our community and asked me to help them put up their mezuzah. It was a simple request. I love to do it. We stood at the front door, and just as I was about to begin, they hesitated. They
- [Library](https://www.etzchaim.net/learning/library/) - Phillip’s Library at Etz Chaim provides our congregational community with Judaic educational and cultural resources. Our renovated library was dedicated in memory of Phillip Michael Silverman on September 10, 2017. The collection of over 3,500 books includes selections for preschoolers through adults. Books may be checked out for 3 weeks. Directions for self-checkout are on
- [GOAL Tax Credit - Preschool](https://www.etzchaim.net/giving/goalscholarship/) - Etz Chaim Preschool is proud to be a participant in the ALEF Fund, which was established in 2008 by the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta in response to the Georgia State Assembly's passing of the Education Expense Credit. Georgia Education Tax Credit: Make an Impact! Become a part of one of the most important and
- [Learning](https://www.etzchaim.net/learning/) - Welcome to a culture where early childhood enrichment, religious school, youth programs, and adult educational and social programming create never-ending opportunities for Jewish connection, learning and growth. Preschool Religious School B'nai Mitzvah Camp Ruach Chai Five Teen Learning Lilmode - Adult Education Library
- [Kol Nidre Campaign](https://www.etzchaim.net/giving/kol-nidre-campaign/)
- [Make a Donation](https://www.etzchaim.net/giving/make-a-donation/)
- [Let's Connect](https://www.etzchaim.net/join-us/lets-connect/)
- [Get Involved](https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/) - Welcome to a community that offers a world of opportunity to connect with each other as well as the world around us, and sparking the spirit of Tikun Olam in all we do. A place where social and cultural activities with your fellow congregants abound, a place where there are no strangers, only chaverim (friends)
- [Jewish Life](https://www.etzchaim.net/jewish-life/) - Our Services Daily Minyan Shabbat Services Life Cycle Events Holidays & Festivals Tefillah Recordings & Pages
- [Our Facilities](https://www.etzchaim.net/about-us/our-facilities/) - At Congregation Etz Chaim, we pride ourselves on being an inclusive community and welcome our congregants and friends of all abilities. Our facilities are equipped with:A Handicap accessible lower bimahA T-Coil Hearing Loop System throughout the Radow Sanctuary, Hammer-Tritt Social Hall and Phillip’s LibraryA Quiet Space for nursing mothers and young children with audio piped-in from the Lindy
- [Our Services](https://www.etzchaim.net/jewish-life/our-services/) - Religious life is at the heart of Etz Chaim. Founded on the principles of the Conservative movement, with an egalitarian vision, Creating Meaningful Jewish Experiences starts in the shul. We offer twice daily minyanim, Shabbat evening and morning services, as well as Junior Congregation for children in Kindergarten through Sixth grades. All Shabbat Services are in-person and also
- [Join Us](https://www.etzchaim.net/join-us/) - Let's Connect Membership Form Contact Us
- [Photo Galleries](https://www.etzchaim.net/happenings/photo-galleries/)
- [Contact Us](https://www.etzchaim.net/join-us/contact-us/) - How to contact Etz Chaim, a progressive, egalitarian, Conservative synagogue in Marietta that serves the Jewish community of Cobb County in north Atlanta.
- [Livestream](https://www.etzchaim.net/livestream/)
- [Chavurah](https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/chavurah/) - Etz Chaim is delighted to announce that we are relaunching our Chavurah initiative!The word Chavurah means “a community or subgroup of friends.” A chavurah is a beautiful way to socialize and get to know one another again in small groups of Etz Chaim congregants. Once you sign up and connect with your chavurah, the synagogue will be
- [Giving Through Online Purchases](https://www.etzchaim.net/giving/giving-through-online-purchases/) - Congregation Etz Chaim participates with several companies which donate a portion of your total purchase back to our community. All you have to do is sign-up with your favorite stores and websites and we benefit from your purchase. It's as simple as that! Giving back to Etz Chaim while making your routine purchases from the following companies generates income

## My Templates

- [temp](https://www.etzchaim.net/?elementor_library=temp) - The Search for Chametz (Bedikat Chametz) In prohibiting the use of any leaven during the week of Passover, the Torah enjoins that “leaven shall not be seen with thee in all thy borders” (Ex. XII:7) and “No leaven shall be found in your houses” (Ex. XII:19). In order that these injunctions should be fulfilled both in the letter
- [Default Kit](https://www.etzchaim.net/?elementor_library=default-kit)
- [Upcoming Events Block](https://www.etzchaim.net/?elementor_library=upcoming-events-block) - Upcoming Men's Club Events [events_list category="5"]#_EVENTLINK - #_EVENTDATES, #_EVENTTIMES[/events_list]
- [Three-Column Grid Layout with Photos](https://www.etzchaim.net/?elementor_library=three-column-grid-layout-with-photos) - Chavurah College Connection Men's Club

## Categories

- [The Drash](https://www.etzchaim.net/category/the-drash/)