From the Cantor - August 2004

Shiru L'Adonai Shir Chadash…Sing to God a New Song. These words from the book of Psalms have always inspired me to make the most of any new beginning. I am honored to be a part of the mishpacha (family) that is Congregation Albert. You have welcomed me with such warmth that I am feeling every moment as a "Shehechiyanu" moment. I am blessed to have joined you as your cantor. I am equally blessed to work with colleagues like Rabbi Black, Ilana Locke, Leah Schaer, and all of our staff who has helped to make my transition go smoothly.

In this time of new beginnings, it is time to think about our yearly cycle and its beginning. Even though Rosh Hashanah seems far off, we begin to take stock of ourselves even a month before it arrives. The Hebrew month of Elul begins August 18. Elul is the time when we look inside and evaluate our actions of the past year. Even the music of worship during Elul prepares us for the High Holy Days and gets us into the mode of introspection as we include prayers of forgiveness. These new but familiar melodies help to prepare us for the task of t'shuvah (seeking forgiveness) and starting anew.

As each of you reflects on a new beginning, I ask for your help. Please share your musical skills with our congregation. I encourage all singers age thirteen and over to join our adult choir. Our first task will be to prepare for the High Holy Days. If you play an instrument of any kind, please contact me. Over time I hope to include more opportunities for instrumental music. Music is a wonderful gift as it helps to raise the level of spirituality not only in worship but in all aspects of our congregation. Let us learn together as we make music together.

B'shira, (in song)
Cantor Barbara R. Finn

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