UJCVP Shabbat Message: Glimpse into the Largest Gathering of Jewish Leaders

One of the greatest joys of Jewish communal life is watching a new generation mature into leadership roles. Here on the Virginia Peninsula, our local BBYO chapter engages Jewish teens and empowers them to be leaders.   

Three of our local teen leaders - David, Carson and Lainey - just ret…

UJCVP Shabbat Message: The Light of Elan

As a person who feels deep love and responsibility for Israel, this past week has been difficult.  

On Sunday, two Israeli civilians were shot and murdered in an act of terror near the Palestinian village of Hawara. In response, sections of Hawara were set on fire in an act of arson by vig…

UJCVP Shabbat Message: One Year Later

Today marks the one year anniversary of the start of the war in Ukraine.  

One year ago, while bombs were flying overhead in one part of the world, Jewish leaders nearly 5,000 miles away began advocating and raising tens of millions of dollars to support the Ukrainian community.  

But …

UJCVP Shabbat Message: Who is the MVP of Super Bowl LVII

This weekend, the Philadelphia Eagles go up against the Kansas City Chiefs to determine who will be crowned Super Bowl champion. You might be asking yourself, what does the Super Bowl have to do with the Shabbat message?  

At first glance, this week's reading includes the powerful imager…

CNU Welcomes Dr. Vered Sakal to lead Jewish Studies

Dr. Vered Sakal has been named the Bertram and Gladys Aaron Professor of Jewish Studies at Christopher Newport University, where she will lead Judaic Studies and build strong ties with the Jewish community. She currently serves as the 2021-2023 Melanie and Andrew Goodman visiting fellow for …