Rabbi Michael Cahana, Senior Rabbi for Portland’s oldest synagogue, will give a free talk on Sept. 19 at Catholic Charities of Oregon, 2740 SE Powell Boulevard in Portland. His timely topic will be care for the marginalized as found in Hebrew Scripture and tradition.
A key leader of Portland’s Jewish community, Rabbi Cahana has led a steady response to poverty in the region, including using the building where he works to host people experiencing homelessness when the weather turns dangerous.
“Hebrew teaching on welcoming the stranger and caring for the widow and orphan is the supporting structure for Western culture’s finest moments,” says Natalie Wood, executive director of Catholic Charities of Oregon.
In 2006, Rabbi Cahana became the 18th Senior Rabbi for Congregation Beth Israel. He had led synagogues in the Midwest and the East Coast previously. His aim in each place has been to create vibrant and inclusive Jewish communities. He serves on local inter-religious councils and is a past president of the Oregon Board of Rabbis. Rabbi Cahana is highly engaged in social action, embracing the concept of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) to make our community and nation better. He serves on the leadership team of Lift Every Voice Oregon, an interfaith movement to pass gun safety legislation in Oregon.
Snacks will be served. A free will collection will be taken up and shared between the programs of Catholic Charities and the work of Congregation Beth Israel.
Register now to attend in person or to join online.
