Rabbi Levi A. Olan: The Conscience of the City

“If we ever learn to obey the demands of justice and love… then we can have peace and good will.” This sermon, delivered on January 25, 1970, is one of Rabbi Olan’s most challenging reflections …

“Trouble is often the base for the creative life.” In this sermon, delivered on January 11, 1970, Rabbi Olan further develops two of his most important ideas: first, that faith leads to greater agency in …

In the year 2000, “religion will be more vital and dynamic than it has ever been in all of its history.” In 1970, as futurists predicted what life would be like in the year 2000, …

“Where love is, God is..” This sermon, delivered on January 4, 1970, is Rabbi Olan’s answer to the Beatles’ assertion that “All You Need Is Love” (released July 1967).  That would be true, Rabbi Olan …

“There are passages in the Bible that today appear primitive.” April 6, 1969 During the Passover season of 1969, Rabbi Olan raised a topic many of us have wondered about: the lamb shank on the …

“The true shame of our time is that so many have comfortably adjusted to the in-justices of our time.” As 1969 drew to a close, Rabbi Olan reflected on the many protests and demonstrations that …

“Wisdom in this hour would dictate the recognition that there are virtues and weaknesses in both positions [conservative and liberal]…  The truth is that we need both views for a healthy moral experience.” In order …

“Modern clergymen are paid by the laymen. They are in the almost ridiculous position of taking a salary from people whom they are called upon to judge in God’s name.” December 7, 1969 (Pearl Harbor …

“What shakes religious faith is the disappointment that comes when God fails to keep His promise.” November 23, 1969 What is that promise?  It was very important to Rabbi Olan that the “God faith”, as …