We’ve started on some important projects and continue setting priorities. Please feel free to contact any of us with questions or to bring something to our attention.
Torah and Silver -- We have received a complete report from our Torah scribe, Rabbi Kevin Hale. The ones we use regularly are Kosher (fit for use). However, they are in need of some “Conservation,” and we are contacting a local scribe to get the work done. Many of the silver adornments are also in need of repair. We have located two silversmiths and will solicit their estimates so our silver can be “Reconstructed.”
New Siddur – We are researching a new prayer book for our congregation. There are some wonderful new siddurim from the Reform, Conservative and Reconstructionist movements. We are studying these carefully to determine which will best suit the needs of our community. This is a very exciting process for us and we look forward to including you in the decision-making, recommending one that will allow us to innovate while keeping our BIJ traditions.
Special Events -- We are also excited about two upcoming non-traditional worship events. Our next experimental fifth Friday night service will be on February 29th – an unconventional “Soundscape of Sacred Drum and Chant.” With some very special guest musicians, we will blend music and rhythms, poetry and movement by candlelight. Kaddish will be included at 8:45pm for those observing a Yahrzeit. An Oneg and schmooze in the Fireside Room will follow.
And we hope to join with Congregation Or Shalom in creating a Tikkun Leyl Shavuot on Sunday night, June 8. This custom, originated by the Kabbalists in the 16th century, involves study well into the night, symbolizing our readiness to receive the Torah (Shavuot celebrates the giving of the Ten Commandments). We are planning a feast of traditional and non-traditional study and song, culminating with a big Musical Midnight Service. And beginning, of course, with blintzes, kugel and cheesecake! Let us know if you would like to help with this event.
L’Shalom, Sara Heckelman