Community at Temple Israel
Rabbi’s Message – June 6, 2023
Shimon the Righteous was accustomed to say: “Al shloshah devarim – The world is based on three things – on the Torah, on the service of God, and upon acts of loving-kindness. (Pirkei Avot 1:2)”
For over three years, dedicated members of our community have taken the call to offer loving-kindness quite seriously, taking time each month to reach out to other congregants and check in on their well-being. This Caring Committee has been the lifeline of the congregation during the peak of the pandemic. They were dedicated to checking on our community’s welfare, offering support, and passing on to the office and clergy how to best meet individual needs during unprecedented times. We are so grateful for their selfless service and commitment to the health of our community.
Though many congregants eventually chose to have their names taken off our call lists and some volunteers only participated for a short time, relationships were forged. Those efforts made an incredible difference in the lives of those involved. Isn’t it time you met your dedicated caller in person, even if only to offer them a “thank you?”
Join us on this Saturday, July 8 at 10:30AM when we will honor our Caring Committee callers and invite everyone in the congregation to come and meet these dedicated volunteers. A Kiddush luncheon will immediately follow the service to give everyone an opportunity to speak in person with the voice on the other end of the telephone line and offer their words of appreciation face-to-face. RSVP to the Temple office by today, July 6 to reserve your spot at the lunch. Should you need assistance with transportation, please let us know at that time and we will do our best to help.