Our ancestors worked hard to endow ritual moments in the sanctuary with such power, majesty and holiness that God's presence became palpable. This should be our objective also. We too should work hard at it.

On the surface, the death of Rabbi Hartman and the resignation of Pope Benedict occurring at the same time was a mere coincidence, two separate news items in two separate parts of the world, affecting two different religious communities. But there are lessons to learn from both men.

Partners in Torah brings you Harry's Video Blog and the always entertaining Harry Rothenberg. In this week's Torah portion, Parshat Terumah, the Jewish people are commanded to build the Tabernacle and the Ark while still in the desert. Trees don't grow in the desert.

A fundamental question undercuts the elaborate description in this week's Torah portion, Exodus 25-27: Why does God need a home?

All of this, God says to Moses: Say to Israel, "Dedicated to God a contribution." Then, collect my offering from every heart-inspired person