From the Rabbi - October 2005

Dear Friends,

I write this article shortly after the completion of the evacuation of the Israeli settlements in the Gaza Strip and parts of the West Bank. The past few weeks have been difficult for all of us who care about the State of Israel and her people. Scenes of soldiers and settlers facing each other as enemies are potent reminders of the huge divisions that will face Eretz Yisrael and Am Yisrael, the Jewish state and the Jewish people, in the near future if and when the peace process continues.

This year, the High Holy Days will have an extra dimension of meaning for Jews around the world. At this time of Cheshbon Hanefesh, the accounting of our souls, we are acutely aware of the potential dangers that lie in wait, not only from our external enemies, but from within our borders as well. Our prayers for peace will have an extra sense of urgency. We pray that Israel will have the strength to come together and see the humanity of all, be they secular or religious, rightist or leftist, Arab or Jew. We pray for an end to war and suffering all over the world. Rabbi Isaac Kook, the first Chief Rabbi of Israel, wrote "A Jew should not pray in a room without windows." When we come to our sanctuary for our Holy Days, it is essential that we not shut out the "real" world, that we pray not only for ourselves, but rather for all of God's creation.

On a personal note, each year, as I prepare for these most sacred days, I am humbled by the many gifts that God has given me and my family. As I enter my tenth year as your Rabbi, I give thanks for the ability and opportunity to share in your lives.

Sue, Elana and Ethan join me in wishing you a Shanah tovah u'metukah, a good and sweet New Year. 

B'shalom,
Rabbi Joseph R. Black

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