Dear Friends,

There are so many things that are unique and different about the times we are living in. One such thing that we seldom mention is that this is a time of great creativity and openness to new ideas. The combination of technology and need means that our options for activities during quarantine have been more varied and innovative than we ever could have imagined. Certainly, nothing takes the place of meeting in person. But remember back to our Tikkun Leil Shavuot in May – would we have ever thought to study late into the night with people all over the world without this experience? Would we have found so many ways to connect and so many different voices for the High Holy Days, if we had gathered as was usual in years past?

Now that the High Holy Days are over, with winter approaching, we need to find more ways to connect with one another, and more things to do to maintain our sense of community. Perhaps you have been sitting on an idea (or, half of one has been rolling around in your mind). Maybe there is a group or club you would like to start or join. Or maybe, you just want to find more opportunities to see your Sinai family, even if it is in a Zoom room or on a cold winter hike.

Rabbi Sara and I are working to continue to bring you services, learning, and other activities. And we want to hear from you! In February, we will come together for our annual calendar meeting, where committees, groups, and individual Temple members have the opportunity to put their events on the calendar. If there is something you would like to do or an event you would love to see, let’s make it happen! We know not everyone is comfortable with the technology. Not everyone wants to lead an event. We have enough people who can do both of those things, so don’t let that be a barrier to your good idea. Bring those ideas and enthusiasm to us and we can help figure out how to make it a reality.

So don’t be shy, even if you have never led an event before. We want to see your creativity, and we also want to see you! Let’s find new ways to live, learn, and be a congregation, together.

L’shalom,
Rabbi Benjamin