From the Rabbi - October 1999

Dear Friends,

The month of October begins with an ending and then another beginning: Simchat Torah - the festival of rejoicing in the Torah. On Erev Shabbat, October 1^st, our sanctuary will once again be filled with the joyful sound of Klezmer music as we dance, sing, and celebrate the joy of Torah. Simchat Torah is the festival that celebrates the cycle of Torah. At our service, we will conclude the book of Deuteronomy and begin the book of Genesis.

Just as Simchat Torah holds both a beginning and an ending, the memories of the Chagim do not have to fade after the dancing is over. One of the important aspects of the fall holidays is that they help us put our lives in perspective. On Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur we evaluate our priorities, relationships, strengths and weaknesses. On Sukkot, we give thanks for the bounty that so often we take for granted. Simchat Torah reminds us of the joy of Torah - the ongoing melody that shapes our lives and our values.

This year, why not take advantage of the heightened sense of spiritual and communal awareness brought about by the holidays? Why not resolve to become more involved in and dedicated to our congregation, community and its programs and values? Maybe we should think of the holidays as a "jump start" to a year filled with learning, giving and emotional and spiritual growth.

Here are a few suggestions for ways to keep the spirit of the holidays alive over the next few months:

• Resolve to come to Shabbat services and torah study on a regular basis.
• Join Sisterhood, Brotherhood, TASTY, Zamir or other activities within the congregation.
• Act on your Jewish values. Vote on October 5th to amend the City charter to ensure equal rights for all people - regardless of age, race,religion, sexual orientation, physical or emotional disability. Contact Governor Johnson to let him know that Hate Crimes are a reality in New Mexico and around the country.
• Volunteer at Project Share.
• Become involved in one of the many committees at Temple or volunteer in the office, giftshop or library.
• Volunteer to offer rides to homebound congregants that will allow them to participate in Temple activities.

These are just a few suggestions, I'm sure that you can come up with your own ways to keep the message of the holidays alive in your homes and hearts.

On another note: During the High Holidays, I spoke about the "Principles of Reform Judaism" recently adopted by the Central Conference of American Rabbis. Beginning this month, I will be offering a series of four lectures on the "Principles" as part of our Adult Education offerings for this semester. The purpose of these lectures is to provide an opportunity for all of us to fully explore the impact and import of this historic document. The lectures will take place on selected Wednesday afternoons and Thursday evenings. (Note: two time-slots are being offered in order to accommodate as many diverse scheduling needs as possible.) Check your bulletin for dates and details.

May you all have a sweet New Year,

L'Shalom,
Rabbi Joseph R. Black

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