3 minute read
Reflection
REFLECTION
Southern Jewish writer and humorist Harry Golden once asked his staunch atheist father why he belonged to a synagogue and attended services every Shabbat. Golden’s father answered: “You see Cohen over there? Cohen comes to shul to talk to God. I come to shul to talk to Cohen.”
That’s the truth of Judaism, isn't it? Some of us come to shul to talk to God, and others of us come to shul to talk to each other. Either is the right motive since we are a faith family — a Jewish people who, like a family, are as much about belonging as believing.
Every Rosh Hashanah can be a new beginning, whether internally or interpersonally, when you open up your heart and join in the doing that we live and breathe as a congregation.
The 5784 High Holy Days will offer an exciting array of new faces, new offerings, and new opportunities to connect with one another and our Judaism.
When you choose to come to shul — not only on the High Holy Days but also any future Shabbat — you can experience the full complement of our expanded rabbinic team with the addition of Rabbi Ross Levy alongside me and Rabbi Dreifus. Learn more about Rabbi Levy on page 08.
Our congregational music offerings have never been more robust, including opportunities for both adults and youth to learn how to play and perform Jewish music on
piano and guitar and sing in a brand new Temple choir, all under the direction of Cantorial and Music Director Emily Groff Heilborn. Check out the alternative music and worship offerings during the High Holy Days with Emily and Rabbi Levy in addition to our grand sanctuary services with our rabbis and Cantorial Soloist Happie Hoffman.
Rabbi Emeritus Harry Danziger will share the essential lessons he has learned about life in a poignant Yom Kippur afternoon session. I will moderate a program entitled, "Standing in Solidarity-How to Combat Hate with Joy ," with United States Justice Department and FBI top brass.
From tots and teens to families and seniors, every stage and age will find inspiration on our campus throughout the High Holy Days. Make the New Year a true renewal —personally and communally—by showing up for the greatest Jewish season of the year.
L'shanah tovah u'metukah. On behalf of the entire clergy team and staff of your home congregation, warmest wishes to you and everyone you love for a healthy, meaningful, and sweet 5784!
