From the Cantor - December 2004

"Not by might, not by power but by My spirit says Adonai of Hosts"

(Zechariah 4:6)

Chanukah is about dedication, a rededication to the Jewish spirit of faith, and the miraculous triumph of the Maccabees. The quote from the Haftarah for Shabbat Chanukah firmly expresses this message. Our ancestors were dedicated to the covenant with God even in the face of social pressure. The Maccabees were devoted to rededicating the Temple to God. Devotion to the tenets of our faith give us the opportunity for dedication and rededication.

It is particularly fitting that as I write this article I am surrounded by many unopened boxes in our new home. What a perfect time to be writing about "dedication." Although unpacking is a job that needs to be done, David and I are especially devoted to joyfully dedicating this "house" to be our "home." A house is dedicated by turning it into a special place, a place of memories. We dedicate our home to be more than just a dwelling, but rather a place for Shabbat, for festivals, for family and friends, filled with music, laughter and sounds of joy. We fill our home with memories that go beyond the structure. When we removed the mezuzah from our home in Kansas it became a house, a simple structure that held only memories for our family. We make the transition from one home to another because of what we do as a family, just like the Maccabees. So as the Maccabees rededicated the Temple, we rededicate our home here in Albuquerque. The structures may be different, but devotion and dedication are what make a home.

As we approach the festival of Chanukah, may we all renew and rededicate ourselves to our Congregation Albert family. Through our devotion we can make it more than a building, but rather a spiritual home for all of us.

May the lights of Chanukah bring you joyous rededication.

B'shira,
Cantor Barbara R. Finn

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