Moments in the Upper Room

    Wind and Fire

    Writing from a Messianic synagogue in Manhattan — the feasts as they come, the weekly Torah portion, and the questions people actually arrive with.

    A painted illustration of a lone figure raising a shofar at the foot of a smoking mountain

    The Feasts

    Why We Blow the Shofar

    Rosh Hashanah falls on September 11 and 12 this year. Before it arrives, it is worth asking what the sound is actually for.

    Upper Room NYC · August 18, 2026 · 3 min read

    A painted illustration of a barley field at dusk with a single sheaf left standing at the edge

    Torah Portion

    Ki Teitzei and the Sheaf You Forgot

    This week's portion contains a law about harvesting badly on purpose — and leaving what you drop where it fell.

    August 9, 2026 · 3 min read

    A painted illustration of a long table set with bread and candles as evening light falls

    Congregation Life

    What Actually Happens on a Friday Night

    Seven o'clock, a table in Manhattan, and the book of Revelation. A plain description, for anyone deciding whether to come.

    August 4, 2026 · 2 min read

    A painted illustration of the Manhattan skyline at dusk with warm light in a single window

    Congregation Life

    One Year in Manhattan

    Twelve months ago this congregation met for the first time. What a first year looks like from the inside.

    July 30, 2026 · 2 min read

    This site uses cookies to deliver our services and to improve your experience. By using our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy.