Yom Kippur is often seen as the most “religious” day of the year—fasting, prayer, confession. But in this week’s double Torah reading, Acharei–Kedoshim, we’re reminded that holiness isn’t about rituals alone. Hashem says, “Be holy, for I, the L-rd your G-d, am holy.” But what does that really mean in everyday, modern terms?
The Torah gives us some surprisingly down-to-earth examples: leave the corners of your fields for the poor (today, that might mean charitable giving or volunteer work); don’t insult people or gossip (a daily challenge in personal and professional life); treat workers fairly, honor your elders, show kindness to strangers. Holiness, in this context, isn’t about perfection—it’s about decency, integrity, and compassion.
Yom Kippur, discussed in Acharei, pushes us to take a hard look at ourselves. But Kedoshim asks: can we take that same honesty and apply it year-round? Can we build in moments of reflection—not just once a year, but regularly? Can we be more thoughtful in how we speak, give more generously, and act with more empathy in our relationships?
You don’t have to be traditionally observant to live a holy life. You just have to care enough to try. That effort—daily, imperfect, sincere—is what transforms ordinary life into something sacred.
Shabbat shalom,
Rabbi Chaim & Chanie Lazaroff
P.S. A group of Houston young Jewish professionals are having an incredible time on the CYP trip to Antigua, Guatemala! Joining young Jewish professionals from across the USA we have been exploring the city, taking in the stunning views from Hobbitenango, and hiking up Volcano Acatenango (13,044 ft).
We camped overnight around a cozy fire at 11,811 ft, watching the active Volcano Fuego from a safe distance. The sunrise from the peak was breathtaking! Rabbi Chaim shared a meaningful meditation on gratitude at high altitude.
Shabbat will be a special time for us to bond and reflect on our experiences. We're grateful for this journey and the connections we're making and looking forward to sharing all about it when we return!
You can still apply to join us on our next volunteering trip to Israel in July! For ages 18-50, don't miss it!
THE COHEN CORNER
The way you do anything is the way you do everything.
This week’s Torah portion opens with the story of Nadav and Avihu, whose intense longing to connect with Hashem led to their untimely passing. Their mistake wasn’t in wanting holiness, but in forgetting that Hashem wants us to elevate the world, not escape it. By stepping into the Holy of Holies unprepared and ignoring the physical elements of their priestly role, they turned away from the world instead of bringing their spiritual passion into it. Their story reminds us that even the most elevated experiences need to stay grounded in purpose.
This message is just as relevant for us today. We all have moments when we feel inspired, whether through prayer, Torah study, or in quiet reflection. Those moments aren’t meant to stay locked inside, but to ripple outward into our daily lives, in how we treat our friends, co-workers, family, and bring meaning into the ordinary. The challenge is not just to rise spiritually, but to return with its effects in the world around us. So the next time you feel spiritually uplifted, ask yourself: how can I carry this into my everyday actions? That’s where true holiness begins.
Have a fabulous Shabbos!
Rabbi Yosef, Chanale & Mushka Cohen
UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS:
- Thursdays, May 8-22 at 10:30am - Mommy and Me with Chanale Cohen - Nurturing and engaging program designed for mothers and babies (newborn to 2 years) to learn, play, and connect in a warm Jewish environment. - www.chabaduptown.org/mommy
- Friday, May 16 at 7:30 pm - Join us for an engaging Community-themed Shabbat Dinner with an extra dose of meaning and connection! RSVP at www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner
- Sunday, May 18 at 6:30 pm - Pre-Shavuot Women's Babka Bake - Master the art of baking babka with Meital from Oh Mama Kitchen! Reserve at www.chabaduptown.org/babka
- Sunday, June 1 at 11:30 pm - All Night Learn-A-Thon - featuring a lineup of Torah talks on many Jewish subjects!
- Monday, June 2 at 11:15am - Hear the 10 Commandments read on their 3,337th anniversary, followed by our annual Dairy Kiddush & Ice Cream party! Fun-filled Children's Program! More info at www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule
- Tuesday, June 3 at 11:45am - Yizkor Memorial Service
UPCOMING YJP EVENTS:
- Four Wednesdays, May 14-June 4 - CYP Academy Worrier to Warrior: The Chassidic Approach to Overcoming Emotional Hurdles. Ever feel like life throws a little too much your way sometimes? Worrier to Warrior is a powerful new course that offers practical tools and timeless Jewish wisdom to help you navigate those inner battles, tap into your soul’s strength, and face challenges with more clarity, calm, and confidence. Build that emotional toolbox—you’ll be glad you did. REGISTER: www.yjphouston.org/warrior
- Thursday, May 15 at 8pm - Lag Ba'omer Steakhouse - Experience the mystical Jewish Holiday with mouthwatering steaks, fire pit and s’mores, open bar and music. RSVP at www.yjphouston.org/steaks
- Thursday, May 22, 7:30 pm - Third Thursdays Happy Hour - Location TBA
- Thursday, May 29 at 8 pm - Met@Chabad Speeddating- www.metatchabad.com/speeddating
- Wed.-Thurs., July 2-10 - CYP Israel Volunteer Trip - Meaningful, memorable and amazing volunteering trip to Israel this summer, eligible ages 18-50 —and the price is insane - as low at $599! www.yjphouston.org/israeltrip
SHABBOS PARSHAS ACHAREI-KEDOSHIM
FRIDAY, MAY 9, IYAR 11
7:30 Mincha & Kabbalat Shabbat
7:46 Shabbos Candle Lighting
Count Omer 27
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner
SHABBOS, MAY 10, IYAR 12
9:00 am Chassidus
10:00 am Morning Services
Shabbos Lunch Kiddush
7:45 pm Mincha
Study of Pirkei Avos Ch. 3
8:43 pm Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbat Ends
Count Omer 28
Living Torah Video Magazine