Preparation for the High Holy Days

​Dear Congregation Agudas Achim,
 
In these unprecedented times it is often difficult to balance feelings of joy with what is happening in the world. The COVID-19 pandemic is scary, as we fear for ourselves, our friends and loved ones. With so many unknowns, it is difficult to feel safe. A vaccine cannot come too soon. There are also too many reminders of the hate that still exists in the world. Many in our community are asking what we can do to help restore racial justice. In the words of Elie Wiesel, “I swore never to be silent whenever and wherever human beings endure suffering and humiliation. We must always take sides.”
 
Although these high holy days will not be what we are accustomed to, we are fortunate to have the technology available to bring us all together. Many of our congregants have been working hard since the beginning of the outbreak to ensure our community is safe and to make these holidays as fulfilling as possible. I truly admire their strength, creativity and resolve. Although we feel the loss of not being together at our beloved synagogue, we still have much to be thankful for. We now have Rabbi Alex Weissman and welcome his leadership as we enter the new year. We have seven b’nai mitzvah this year – a great reason for celebration! And we still have one another. Although it has been said many times, if you are in need, please reach out to any of us on the board, Rabbi Alex, or Erin and Keri in the office. We are a community that helps each other. This is just another reason I am thankful and proud to be part of our congregation.