From the Desk of Daniella Ironi, Junior Community Shlicha (Emissary) | Weintraub Israel Center 

Shabbat Shalom
Shabbat Shalom

From the Desk of Daniella Ironi, Junior Community Shlicha (Emissary) | Weintraub Israel Center

This week we begin a new book of the Torah: Vayikra. At first glance, it can feel a little strange- It talks a lot about korbanot (sacrifices) and detailed rituals that we don’t practice today. How does that relate to the J?

 

The book opens with the words, “Vayikra el Moshe” (And He called to Moses). Rashi points out that this “call” is an expression of love. Before giving instructions, God reaches out. The relationship comes from both.

 

The korbanot themselves were not just about giving something up. The word “korban” comes from the root “karov,” meaning to come close. The purpose was to create closeness between people and God, and maybe also within ourselves.

 

When I first moved to Tucson a year ago and started the journey of creating a new life far from home, I realized that I needed to make some sacrifices of comfort for closeness, to reach out, communicate, and give up anonymity for community.

 

Today, we don’t bring sacrifices. But we still search for ways to feel connected to our traditions, to each other, and to something bigger than ourselves, especially in a place like the J, where connection is one of the highest goals.

 

Vayikra reminds us that connection doesn’t happen automatically. Just like the korban required intention and effort, so does building community and meaning in our lives.

 

Maybe our “modern korban” is giving our time, our attention, or our kindness.

 

As we start this new book, we can ask ourselves: what helps me feel closer? And how can I help others feel that same connection?

 

Shabbat Shalom.

Vayikra begins not with instruction, but with a call—an expression of love and closeness. It’s a reminder that community is strengthened not only through shared experiences, but through noticing, affirming, and lifting each other up. At the Tucson J, that can look like celebrating someone’s milestone, offering a kind word, or recognizing the unique spark each person brings to our community. In doing so, we help create a space where people feel seen—and where real connection can grow.

 

This week at the J began on Sunday with the opening reception of “Rhapsody in Hue” in the Fine Art Gallery. The show beautifully showcases the diverse artistic expression and varying styles of a variety of artists who are part of the Colored Pencil Society of America Phoenix and Tucson chapter. The group strives to elevate the medium, educate others about it, and encourage innovation with the use of colored pencils. Each work on display is a true labor of love and creativity—stop by through April 5 to enjoy them and read more about the show here. Our last show of the 2025-2026 Fine Art Gallery season ends with “Shards and Sparks: Fires of Creation” opening on Thursday, April 16; it’s free and open to the whole community. Join us! 

 

In anticipation of Passover coming soon, kids in our Early Childhood Education program got in the holiday spirit by making homemade Matzah in the demo kitchen. Participants in Disability Program Services Cooking Club got in on the holiday preparation, too, as they learned how to make Matzah Ball Soup with Rachael, the J’s Sr. Director of Marketing, Communications, + PR. Collaborating across departments is one way we strengthen community at the J and utilize our unique gifts and talents. DPS also celebrated the graduation of another Vocational Program intern cohort. Mazel tov to Katie, Tatum, Robin, and Chase for completing 48 hours of job training at our DPS JShop and Coffee Cart! 

Last night, 30 community members gathered together for the first “Partners Tucson: Building Community, One Conversation at a Time” program. The experience was an opportunity to connect with someone new and engage in Jewish learning through conversation. Over a nosh and with provided reading material, chavruta (partners) softened, leaned in, and expressed the thoughts and ideas on their hearts to one another. It is hard to describe the sweetness and joy of the energy in the room, but safe to say we are excited to offer this program on a regular basis. You can register here for the April Partners program focused on the topic of Community + the Dignity of Difference. 

 

As we move through this season and toward Passover, may we continue to answer the call of Vayikra. Each moment of connection, whether in conversation, creativity, or collaboration, helps shape a community rooted in belonging and care. Wishing you a meaningful Shabbat and a week ahead filled with connection. Shabbat Shalom.

Reminders, Resources + Learning

Each week we share resources for more learning:

This week’s resources:

 

Last week’s resources:

Is there a topic you’d like to learn more about? Email Jenn Selco with requests.