Dear Friends,
A remarkable story came to my attention recently that was truly moving: Two women were speaking about what they are planning for the High Holy Days when a third woman overheard them and introduced herself, sharing that she is also celebrates the holidays. The three began talking and one connection led to another — eventually resulting in an important introduction to a medical team that helped bring about a successful surgery and recovery.
Was this divine intervention? A serendipitous moment? A living example of what Rumi teaches: “Open your arms if you want to be held”? Or perhaps it was simply the power of how Judaism can connect one person to another.
The story is a reminder of the many possibilities that come with our tradition—possibilities to connect, to lift each other’s spirits, to heal, and to begin again. That is what Rosh Hashanah offers us each year: a chance to face the blank slate of a new year with hope and open hearts.
We are joyfully preparing for this year’s Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services, and we invite you to join us—and to invite others as well!!! Whether in person at our beautiful “synagogue by the sea” at the Annenberg Community House or through our livestream services, we look forward to seeing you on September 23rd, October 1st and October 2nd as we share these sacred days.
Register here to join us and step into the possibilities of the New Year.
Shabbat Shalom,
Jan
