From the Cantor - January 2005

"Moshe brought the people out, toward God…the `sound' of the shofar grew very strong…God answered in the sound (of a voice)" (Shemot/Exodus 19:17 & 19)

As I write these thoughts, it is just after Thanksgiving and just before Hanukah. Though the focus of my article this month is on my upcoming installation it seems odd that I should be writing about it so far in advance. On the other hand, the themes of both of these holidays are deeply connected to the brit (covenant) I will be confirming with our congregation. I am truly "thankful" for the blessings this congregation has bestowed upon me, and I am "dedicating" myself to the benefit of every aspect of our congregation.

The quote above, from the Torah portion Yitro, is one of the foundations for the importance of the "voice" or calling which I have made my own as a cantor. It is no small coincidence that this is parsha for the Shabbat of my installation. It is my covenant with the congregation not only to supply a voice of music and worship, but to enhance and develop the spiritual voice of our congregants. My brit with Congregation Albert is a parallel to the brit of our ancestors, the children of Israel made with God at Sinai. At Sinai, God and the Children of Israel created a sacred partnership. The covenant we make together at Congregation Albert is also a sacred partnership. We come together to learn, to pray, to repair the world. I hope that my installation will serve as a light to begin our covenant together. I am grateful to be sharing this ritual celebration with Rabbi Daniel Freelander and Julie Silver and of course Rabbi Black. I am honored to have them with us. As our ancestors gathered at Sinai, I hope that we all gather on January 28-30 to begin this new chapter together.

May we sing our song to God…together!

B'shira,
Cantor Barbara R. Finn

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