Rabbi's Corner

Message from the Rabbi

Identity Should Be Motivation for Good
“You shall not profane My holy name, that I may be sanctified in the midst of the Israelite people—I יהוה who sanctify you,” (Leviticus 22:32)

Have you ever heard a crime reported and held your breath hoping the name of the criminal didn’t sound Jewish?  Madoff? Epstein? Weiselberg?  Each time one of their names came across the screen I cringed and could hear antisemites saying, “see I told you the Jews are all about money.”  Identity is a two way street.

We can either through our associations bring honor or shame.  It is true of our families, our alma maters and of course our people.  Thinking through how our behavior reflects not just on ourselves but on the people with whom we associate should motivate us towards good or at least be one more protection against making poor decisions. 

Shavuot: The Holiday of Receiving the Torah will be observed Tuesday evening June 11 and Wednesday June 12 (Yizkor).  Our congregation’s custom is to gather on Tuesday evening June 11 and learn from each other.  This year that observance will take place at 8:30pm. The theme will be Healing/Resilience:  What helps us get through hard times?   If you would like to share a text, please let me know.