What a nice Shabbos! I was happily surprised by the number of people who came to our Friday evening service at Bnai Tzedek. Though it was the 4th of July, we had a good turnout. I believe, at least in part, some came to greet and support our new cantorial soloist, Jenna N. Sagan. Everybody could feel immediately the infectious nature of Jennas warmth! As is our custom, the first Friday of the month is especially geared to families--though people of all ages are, of course, welcome every week. I am a big fan of Rabbi David N. Youngs story-telling. This weeks story of Balaam and Shrek 2 was quite engaging…even though I always thought that Balaams riding companion was Francis the Talking Mule! This morning, I was honored to chant Haftarah at CBI Coastal. I introduced the reading by emphasizing the essence of Jewish teaching, as enunciated by the Prophet Micah at the end of this Haftarah: To do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God. As always, I was inspired by the soul-stirring music of Amy Robinson. In honor of Independence Day, between each Aliyah, a different reader shared a first person account by an accomplished Jewish American. At the invitation of Arie Katz, who coordinates this minyan, I introduced the Kaddish with a poem written by Alden Solovy in memory of the three murdered Israeli teens. Though my heart has been heavy all week, as I was reading Solovys words, the immenseness of the tragedy overcame me. The room was awash with tears. After the lovely kiddish and lunch, I came home to greet Rabbi Adam Wright. Robin and I then shared a beautiful visit with Adam, celebrating his first week in the rabbinate.
Posted on: Sun, 06 Jul 2014 04:05:41 +0000
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