Community at Temple Israel
Rabbi’s Message – December 21, 2023
Although the Jewish New Year was in September, the upcoming secular New Year remains a significant marker of time. We measure our progress by it, on resolutions both fulfilled and unfulfilled. As businesses close, schools go on breaks, and winter holiday gatherings bring us together, December is a time of reflection and appreciation, both personal and familial. As the year draws to a close and Christmas is only days away, I’d like to take a moment to celebrate our non-Jewish friends and family who enrich our lives through their support and love for us.
Our non-Jewish spouses, partners, and friends are a blessing in our lives. Especially right now, with antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment alarmingly high, we must give thanks to those who not only stand by us, but lift us up and help us to become better Jews. They strengthen us in the many ways they support our observance of Judaism and Jewish choices. Thank you to all who have cast your lot with the Jewish people. We pray that all you give to the Jewish people will come back to you and fill your life with joy and blessing.
For non-Jewish parents who diligently teach their children to take pride in their Jewish identity, shlepping their children to religious school, lovingly packing them for Jewish summer camp or youth group events, or encouraging them to participate in an Israel trip – thank you. For non-Jewish partners who are ever deepening their own understanding of Judaism to help us create Jewish homes – thank you. For our non-Jewish friends who accompany us to Shabbat services and Share Shabbat dinners and even add their voices to our songs of praise – thank you. To our non-Jewish neighbors and co-workers who serve on our committees, volunteer alongside us, and help keep us safe – thank you. All of you help to ensure the future of our congregation and the continuation of Jewish life l’dor v’dor, from generation to generation.
For all this and more, thank you. Thank you for your love and commitment to our Jewish community. Our lives are enriched by you and the blessings you bring upon yourselves and others. You are an integral part of our community, and we are lucky to have you as a part of our Temple Israel community. Wishing you all a happy and healthy new year and, for those who celebrate, a very Merry Christmas.
May God bless you and keep you.
May the light of God shine on you and may God be gracious towards you.
And may the presence of God be with you and may God grant you peace.