Community at Temple Israel
Rabbi’s Message – July 20, 2023
Throughout this week I’ve found myself reflecting on how lucky we are to have such dedicated lay leaders in our congregation. Especially during the summer, when things slow down a little bit, congregants step up to help us meet the needs of synagogue life, build connections between us, and move our priorities forward. Not only does it offer us a variety of voices and perspectives, it provides members in our community opportunities for personal growth. These opportunities appear in many forms, and each adds another splash of color to the fabric of our community.
On Sunday, members of the board of directors spent the afternoon sharing a meal at the home of our newly-elected board president, Fran Rickenbach. It was an opportunity to connect with one another, share thoughts on board priorities, and better understand the perspectives of those who make up our board. Tonight, I will be joining with past Temple presidents for dinner. This presidential gathering is another chance for some of our most committed Temple members to reconnect, reflect, and share their dreams for what Temple can and should be for its members. Tomorrow night, Shabbat services will be led by dedicated volunteer service leaders and Saturday’s Torah study is being prepared and led by a volunteer.
There are many facets to synagogue life and multiple avenues for involvement. But there is one thing that is true for us all. It truly takes a village. And we need you! Every congregant at Temple plays a critical role in sustaining our traditions and values. Your involvement and leadership is not just appreciated, but necessary for the spiritual growth of our community. This is demonstrated most beautifully in one of my favorite stories, the story of the nobleman’s legacy. Please enjoy, and consider how you, too, can share your light with others.
In a mountain village in Europe many centuries ago, there was a nobleman who was concerned about the legacy he would leave to the people of his town. The man spent a great deal of time contemplating his dilemma, and at last, decided to build a synagogue. In the course of his planning, he decided that no one would see the plans for the building until it was finished. The construction took quite a long time – much longer than he anticipated.
But at long last, the project was completed. The townspeople were excited and curious about what they would find upon entering their new synagogue. When the people came for the first time they marveled at the synagogue’s magnificence. No one could ever remember so beautiful a synagogue anywhere in the world.
Then, noticing a seemingly obvious flaw in the design, one of the townspeople asked, “Where are the lamps? What will provide the lighting?”
The proud nobleman pointed to brackets, which were strategically placed all along the walls throughout the synagogue. He then gave each family a lamp as he explained, “Whenever you come to the synagogue, I want you to bring your lamp, and light it. But, each time you are not here,” he said, “a part of the synagogue will be dark. This lamp will remind you that whenever you are absent, some part of God’s house will be dark. Your community is relying on you for light.”