CHICAGO, IL--(Marketwired - Apr 1, 2014) - For generations, the period between the end of Passover and the Shavuot has been largely removed from Reform liturgy. The Omer, as this period of time is called, represents an opportunity to mark time, express gratitude, refocus priorities, and contemplate existence -- and it is re-introduced in a new book called Omer: A Counting, written by Rabbi Karyn D. Kedar.

Omer: A Counting revisits this spiritual exercise, and affirms its continued relevance today. Published by the CCAR Press -- the publishing arm of the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR) -- the book aims to help Jews today access this ancient ritual by interpreting it through a modern lens.

Omer: A Counting includes:

• An introductory essay on the history and background of counting the Omer by Rabbi A. Brian Stoller
  
  
• A day-by-day journey through the Omer period, with the blessing, collected poetry & prose, and original writing by Rabbi Kedar for each day that provide insight into the spiritual nature of the Omer
  
  
• Additional readings for each Shabbat and special days in the calendar
  
  

Omer: A Counting hopes to iterate an ancient ritual for a modern audience, and provide a framework that is meaningful and accessible to contemporary Jews.

For more information on Omer: A Counting, please contact Katarina Wenk-Bodenmiller of Sommerfield Communications at (212) 255-8386 or Katarina@sommerfield.com.

About CCAR Press
CCAR Press, a division of the CCAR, publishes liturgy and resource materials for the Reform Movement, including prayer books for the home, congregations and other Jewish institutions, as well as Responsa, platforms and guidelines. For more information, please visit www.ccarpress.org.

About CCAR
The Central Conference of American Rabbis, founded in 1889, is the oldest and largest rabbinic organization in North America. As the professional organization for Reform Rabbis of North America, the CCAR projects a powerful voice in the religious life of the American and international Jewish communities. Since its establishment, the CCAR has a rich history of giving professional and personal support to Reform rabbis, providing them with opportunities for study, professional development and spiritual growth beginning while they are still in seminary, through mid-careers, and into retirement. The CCAR is uniquely positioned to meet the ongoing needs of its nearly 2,000 member rabbis (virtually the entire Reform rabbinate) and the entire Reform Jewish community. For more information please visit the CCAR's website at http://ccarnet.org/.