It is a new year and a time not only to look inward but to look outward. It is a time to celebrate and embrace the relationships we share as a congregation. Each of us has a story, a reason for being part of Temple Sinai. Some of you have been members of this congregation since you were children; others came to explore your Judaism as an adult; and others to celebrate events in their life such as baby-naming or B’nei Mitzvah with friends. Some of us are now empty nesters and we are looking for new ways to grow and learn and worship.
In the past two years attention has been paid to the concept of Relational Judaism, strengthened by the publication of a book by Ron Wolfson. This has been the underlying focus of Temple Sinai and will continue to be so in the future. It is the relationships that matter most. It is our hope that everyone who comes here feels welcomed. It is our goal to create programs, events and activities that will foster deeper connections between one another. It is also, though, a two-way street and we encourage your participation. You can ask yourself how being Jewish influences your life, in the food you eat, or the friends you have, your commitment to good deeds or to defining spirituality. And you can look outward, reach out to tell us what moves or inspires you; volunteer for a committee or for an event; call someone in the directory if you need a hand or just an ear. I invite you to call me, or call the rabbi, to get together for coffee and conversation.
Together we can build a stronger community. The purpose of Judaism, and really of all relationships, is to find love, meaning, and understanding – to find our purpose, our sense of belonging and the blessings of satisfaction and yes, of gratitude.
May we, in this coming year, explore ways of deepening our relationships with one another, find our purpose in being part of a community and a family, and acknowledge the blessings within. The next part of our Jewish journey together is building lasting, loving, living relationships for today and for our future.
L’Shanah Tovah (again),
Marilyn