January/February 2012

I’m concerned.  We appear to be busier than ever, being pulled into countless directions.  We are busy caring for our parents, our children, our friends, and if we are lucky, also caring for ourselves.  We are working more hours than in the past, driving more and, as a community we seem more stressed and tired than in the past.  Just thinking about you all, and I am tired on your behalf.  Oy!  

I could remind you about Shabbat, a gift from God giving us a chance to rest.  But, I know many of you will tell me in return that Shabbat is one of your busier days.  I could refute your comment and challenge you further, reminding you it is not just an opportunity, but is actually a commandment from God, an obligation.  In exchange, many of you will tell me about your good intentions, but ultimately, even though I will continue to try and encourage you, many of you will feel unable to change your routines.

So, what feeds your soul?  What is the right way for me to reach you?  To engage you further in synagogue life?  To connect you (further) into Judaism?  I struggle with these questions on a daily basis, especially since I am seeing and hearing your increased life stressors.  I support you.  I will continue to walk with you and help you on your journeys.  But, I wonder if in the hustle and bustle of your daily routines, Judaism is getting somewhat left behind.  

Martin Luther King Jr. commented, “If you can’t fly, then run.  If you can’t run, then walk.  If you can’t walk, then crawl.  But whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.”  Some of you do fly and I am grateful.  I am grateful when I see you at services or Torah study.  I am grateful for your service on the Board or on committees or volunteering in big ways like helping with all the building activities or in smaller ways like volunteering for Pizza Bar.  Thank you.  But, others of you appear more removed from Temple activities.  How do I help you move Judaism forward?  How does Judaism help you move forward?  How do I stall or prevent the appearance of apathy?  Help me engage you.  Help me connect you.  Help me reach you.  As Rabbi Hillel says, “If not now, when?”

L’Shalom,

Rabbi Alison B. Kobey

January/February 2012

I have just returned from the URJ Biennial.  WOW – what an experience!!  I love being recharged and re-energized.  Although over 500 congregations across North America were represented, we were none the less one giant community coming together in worship, prayer, learning and celebration.  The weekend was extraordinary to say the least!!  As we paid tribute to Rabbi Eric Yoffie whose distinguished leadership has brought Reform Judaism to new heights during his 16-year tenure, we warmly welcomed Rabbi Rick Jacobs who will transform our movement going forward.   Steve Sacks, a member of our own community (Temple Shalom), was appointed URJ Board Chair.  Steve has a long and strong history of service to the URJ and will work in true partnership with URJ professional leadership.  The future of Reform Judaism is in good hands and the excitement is palpable.

So – how can we re-energize and recharge our Or Chadash community? We may be small but we are a passionate bunch.  What would you like to see happen here?  What kind of programming would get you charged up, excited and involved?  This is not rhetorical; please let me know how we can make the secular year 2012 one of the best yet at Congregation Or Chadash.

Karen