September 2024 - Looking Backward, Looking Forward

As we approach the High Holy Days, we look back and we look ahead. This past year has been filled with unexpected challenges and profound reflection. After the events of October 7, we witnessed an outpouring of extraordinary generosity and a renewed sense of commitment, even amidst the divisions and disagreements. 

As we examine ourselves and get ready to move forward, we will work to build bridges, not walls, and to carry our communities and our world into a more unified future. We will do this by continuing to come together, in small and big ways. Doing this may foster a spirit of understanding, and eventually even joy.
 
The late Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, whom I like to quote, once remarked, “Happiness is something you pursue, but joy is not. It discovers you. It has to do with a connection to other people or to God.”  Like many traditions, Judaism is an ode to joy – a reminder that, through life’s ups and downs, our strength lies in coming together, in rejoicing, and in acts of generosity and lovingkindness. 
 
Recently we celebrated a loving tribute to our Susie Hill. This past Saturday evening we came together for Havdalah, for Selichot, for the Installation of our Board of Directors, and to recognize the Pillars of our congregation. This week we will come home once again to our beautiful sanctuary and worship together as the warm, wonderful congregational family that we are. Dip an apple in some honey and find the sweetness of this season. I wish you all a happy, healthy, and peaceful new year.

Shana tova,
Cantor Rena