September 2021

Rabbi's Message
It’s been a difficult year,  Covid 19, the nation torn apart by political and social divides and the alarming increase in anti-Semitism.  We thought the vaccine would make the virus disappear.  Now we know it’s not that simple.  These times make our wishes for a Shanah Tovah a good year all the more poignant and heartfelt.
How do we help make it a good year?  As Jews our tradition calls upon to increase the light.  We  do this by focusing on the positive and making it grow. We do this by filling our lives with Mitzvahs, by helping people around us whom we know are in need of emotional or practical help even if we are in need of help ourselves.  We increase the light by trying to judge people favorably as human beings even when we disagree with or even detest their politics.  We increase the light by being proud Jews and clinging even closer to our faith and way of life despite or even because of those who seek our harm.
Moses and the Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years.  It wasn’t easy but they did not give up and eventually joyfully reached the Promised Land. 
May the year to come be one of health, reconciliation and of drawing closer to our heritage our people and  our G-d.
May we be inscribed and sealed for a year of life and peace.  Amen
Rabbi Gerald Sussman