Rabbi's Musings

This week, instead of our usual history lesson, I am writing to celebrate starting back — almost three years after we stopped — the practice of calling up birthday and anniversary celebrants each month during Friday evening worship. This Shabbat evening, January 20, we will call up all those celebrating special moments in January. Is it reason enough to come in person to services? I hope the community feeling, music, prayers, and spiritual direction will also draw you to attending, not to mention the Oneg Shabbat treats!
 
It is important to not let special moments go by without recognizing the blessing it is to celebrate a birthday or anniversary with your community. During the pandemic, it became second nature to avoid such public displays but I think this protective measure came with a cost. In a better world, we are able to gather and say "mazel tov!" to each other.
 
So I hope to see you join us, either to congratulate, be congratulated, or both!