From the President - October 2005

As Rosh Hashanah approaches, my anticipation for the call of the shofar increases. It is a powerful pull. There is an awe-filled moment as the last bit of sound vibrates throughout the sanctuary while we will it to last just a bit longer.

As Jews, we are compelled to gather and hear as a community this primitive music; it has called us together for hundreds of generations. In these moments, communal consciousness results. This singular experience is reflected in our shared, fixed attention to the blasts while we often hold our breaths as the Ba'al T'kiah, one who blows the shofar, expends hers. At Congregation Albert, we are blessed with a communal consciousness that extends past the fleeting High Holy Day experience, to expand into the continuing atmosphere of sacred community.

We walk the walk at Congregation Albert. We are rich in the tradition and thinking of the present Reform Movement, while steeped in local New Mexico history. We practice our faith through worship and live our Jewish values through myriad volunteer activities. Our love of learning is fed by diverse educational programs, for students of all ages. In short, we are participants, not spectators, within our community, immediate and at large. This is as true for our caring, inspired clergy as for each of us.

And so, during these High Holy Days, when the shofar sounds and you find yourself holding your breath, recognize our communal consciousness and hold it close, because truly, this is an incredible gift that we share.

Wishing you the sweetest of New Years,

President, Shawn Perry-Turner

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