From the Rabbi's Desk
| September 2025
Amplifying American Jewish Perspectives: A Call to Conscience Friends, I want to call your attention to three significant statements issued this summer by the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR), the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ), and the American Conference of Cantors (ACC). These statements, available at www.ccarnet.org, demand our careful consideration. I strongly encourage you to read all three in their entirety, as I will only summarize their key points here. Confronting Settler Violence in the West Bank The first statement, issued July 23, responded to the killing of 20-year-old Palestinian American Saif Musallet—a tragic incident emblematic of escalating violence between Israeli settlers and Palestinians in the West Bank. Since the war began, violence against Palestinians has surged dramatically, while illegal outposts proliferate unchecked. Most alarmingly, settler violence now targets even Israeli security forces and the IDF. As the statement notes, “Given that the Israeli police force is controlled by Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir, and the civil administration of the West Bank is under the command of Finance Minister and Minister in the Defense Department Bezalel Smotrich, both of whom support expansion of West Bank Jewish settlements, none of this comes as a surprise, but it cannot be condoned.” Torah repeatedly emphasizes our obligation to treat the stranger with respect and equality. Exodus 12:49 declares unequivocally: “There shall be one law for the citizen and for the stranger who dwells among you.” We desecrate Torah itself when we permit violence against innocent Palestinians, deny them water access, destroy their crops, steal their animals, and attempt to expel them from their villages. Addressing Starvation in Gaza The July 27 statement confronted the humanitarian crisis of starvation in Gaza. Too many spend precious time debating technical definitions of hunger versus famine, or arguing whether Hamas or Israel bears primary responsibility. While we know Hamas shows utter disregard for human life, these debates cannot absolve Israel of its moral obligations. The statement powerfully declares: “No one should be unaffected by the pervasive hunger experienced by thousands of Gazans. No one should spend the bulk of their time arguing technical definitions between starvation and pervasive hunger. The situation is dire, and it is deadly. Nor should we accept arguments that because Hamas is the primary reason many Gazans are either starving or on the verge of starving, that the Jewish State is not also culpable in this human disaster. The primary moral response must begin with anguished hearts in the face of such a large-scale human tragedy.” If we truly believe Torah’s teaching that every human being is created b’tzelem Elohim—in the image of God—then allowing preventable starvation constitutes an affront to the Divine. This moral imperative exists independent of strategic calculations, and we must acknowledge that hunger and starvation will not secure the return of the 50 remaining hostages, only 22 of whom may still be alive. Rejecting Reoccupation of Gaza The August 8 statement addressed the security cabinet’s approved plan to extend control over Gaza, as extremist ministers openly advocate reoccupation and resettlement. Twenty years ago, Israel’s traumatic but courageous dismantling of Gaza settlements represented a unilateral gesture toward future peace. That unhealed trauma now manifests in both the settler violence described above and dangerous messianic desires to return to Gaza at any cost. The statement warns that such reoccupation would exact a devastating price on Israel and Jews worldwide: “Israel has become, and remains, a powerful nation thanks, in part, to the support of allies around the world. But the length and horrors of this war thus far means that military and other forms of support from longtime allies may be less forthcoming in the future. The current occupation of part of Gaza already risks Israel’s security and international reputation.” While Hamas bears undeniable responsibility for initiating this war, maintaining conditions in Gaza, refusing to release hostages, and resisting improved conditions for its people, “Israel has the ability and responsibility to prioritize its own people and values by recognizing that now is the time to end this war, bring the hostages home, and create a coalition of Arab nations with the U.S. and other allies to rebuild Gaza and shape a better tomorrow for all.” Our Moral Obligation as American Jews I have quoted extensively from these statements because they articulate American Jewish perspectives that must be amplified in our current discourse. Supporting Israel remains both our duty and responsibility, but we bear an equally sacred obligation to offer our perspective and voice as American Jews—anchored firmly in Torah—to help Israel see what it may not be able to see itself. As we approach the High Holy Days, I look forward to seeing many of you. We have much to discuss and much praying to do, both for America and for Israel. In this season of reflection and repentance, let us commit ourselves to the prophetic tradition of speaking truth with love, even when that truth proves difficult to hear. L’shalom, |
Cantorial Notes
| September 2025
Days are scrolls. Write on them only what you want remembered. I know that when this article is due, that the calm of summer is over and the month of Elul has arrived. My feet are in the starting blocks, as I ready myself for the holiday sprint through the beginning of the new year. The choir and I have been in music rehearsals for the High Holy Days for a few weeks now and the Holy Days are approaching quickly. Part of my preparation for the High Holy Days is the music, and the other is preparing for the turning inward that takes place. That internal dialogue, an honest self critique of one’s actions towards those that we have had interactions with over the past year, hoping to make it right for their healing and also mine. Rabbi Karyn Kedar writes poetically about forgiveness in her new book Unfolding, “I ask for forgiveness, to be better, to do better, to expand my capacity. To reflect light upon the dark corners of my soul, upon the dark world that waits to be redeemed. Hold me in Mercy, dear G*d. Hold me with grace as my light is revealed during these Days of Awe.” When I read parts of this over the summer, I loved her spiritual insight into forgiveness. Two thoughts came to me as I read this passage. One, it reminded me that this isn’t a superficial look at my actions over the past year. Two, the image of the dark corners of my soul and what light are we reflecting into these dark corners? I guess that’s three things. Rabbi Kedar did not use the word shine, she used reflect. I looked up the word reflect, and this is what I found: things that reflect light often have light coming into them from an external source. Immediately the Priestly Benediction came to mind, May G-d make G-d’s face shine upon you….. The word “shine”, usually means something that gives off a bright light of its own. Sometimes that is how I visualize G-d, as a bright light that doesn’t hurt your eyes to look at it. It reminded me that I’m not alone on this journey of t’shuvah. I look back with the intent of finding where I missed the mark, try to make it right, in order to strive to be who I know G-d, and my soul, wish to aspire. Actually all of humanity should be looking to be good, caring, empathetic, people. Treating those around us the way we would want to be treated, with patience, understanding, and love. I’m the first to admit that it isn’t always easy. This is when we need to “reflect” and walk in that divine light. I’ll close with words from Rabbi Kedar’s poem Unfolding; “I need these days to test my will, my willingness to re-form, to transform. There is so much work to be done…..I am in formation. Unfolding.” May your journey through the Days of Awe, reflect in and through you, the light of forgiveness, goodness, faithfulness, and love. The world surely needs it from all of us. If you need some guidance, I suggest you read Rabbi Karyn D. Kedar’s book, Unfolding, A Holy Day Companion. I’m looking forward to taking a slower read through it, so that I can savor all of its gentle beauty. L’Shana Tova, Hazzan Sherry Shabbat Summer Services Many thanks to everyone who led a Shabbat service this summer, read Torah, gave a D’var Torah, or helped in any way. I am very grateful and appreciate your enthusiasm, knowledge, and commitment in helping to keep our Shabbat Summer Services professional and meaningful. Watch next month’s bulletin for when Adult Classes will begin. Todah rabbah, Hazzan Sherry |
Presidential Message
| September 2025
A Season of Renewal, Connection, and Community As the golden days of summer gently give way to the crisp promise of autumn, our Temple family begins a season filled with new beginnings, sacred reflection, and joyful connection. The past months have been a time for rest, travel, and long afternoons with family and friends. Now, as we step into the new school year, our Religious School classrooms will once again echo with the sounds of learning, laughter, and discovery. Students, teachers, and families will join together for another year of growth, community, and shared purpose. Your Temple Board in Action Over the summer, the Temple Board has been hard at work strengthening our congregation. We approved the Congregation Beth-El lease renewal, secured a $7,000 security grant from the Jewish Federation of Eastern Connecticut, and renewed the contracts of Hazzan Sherry Barnes and Office Manager Roberta Reisner-Winograd. The Board also participated in security training led by Michael Shanbrom of the Secure Community Network, ensuring that we continue to make safety a top priority. In addition, we created the position of Oneg Coordinator, which will be led by Lisa Marcus. If you are interested in supporting our Onegs, please consider donating to the Oneg Fund—your contributions help make these warm, welcoming gatherings possible. Mark Your Calendar – Open House & Mitzvah Day Looking Ahead to the High Holidays Soon after, the High Holidays will call us together in worship and reflection. Rosh Hashanah will invite us to greet the New Year with gratitude and hope. Yom Kippur will guide us toward forgiveness, renewal, and the courage to live with greater purpose. Security Reminder – Arrive Early As we gather for High Holiday services, please plan to arrive early to allow time for check-in and to receive your badges—just as we did last year. Your cooperation ensures the safety and comfort of everyone in our sacred space, and we appreciate your understanding and participation in this important process. Let us greet this season with joy, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to each other. May the year ahead be filled with sweet moments, meaningful connections, and opportunities to make a difference—together. L’Shanah Tovah Tikateivu—may you be inscribed for a good and sweet year. John Murphy President, Temple Emanu-El
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VP of Religious Practices Message
| September 2025
RELIGIOUS PRACTICES COMMITTEE HAPPENINGS We hope you have enjoyed a pleasant summer. This past Shabbat, August 16, we held the annual Bagels and Brachas, with lox, bagels, sweets, coffee and water provided to all. This was followed by a short, creative service lead by Rabbis Marc and Polly, and a hike. During the hike, at the bluff, another short service was held. Thank you to the Religious Practices committee members for planning and setting up the day. Do you enjoy having an Oneg following Shabbat Services? How many of you look forward to the chance to mingle with the community while having a friendly way to start Shabbat? If this is important to you, have a please consider donating to the Oneg restricted fund. This is also a good way to recognize an important life cycle event and share it with our community. As we approach the Fall holiday season, please be reminded that our High Holiday observances will begin with Selichot on Saturday, September 13, commencing with a short social gathering at 6:30 p.m., followed by a meaningful program and service at 7:00 p.m. Information regarding the schedules for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur has been provided on a separate flyer. Our break-the-fast meal is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on October 2, 2025. We are looking for volunteers for Hebrew or English readers for various honors during the High Holiday Services. Please see High Holiday Volunteer Notice below. Following Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, we will celebrate Sukkot with two congregational events: the Sukkot Service will take place on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., featuring a fall harvest-themed Oneg. Additionally, on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., in partnership with the Temple Emanu-El Religious School (TERS), all are invited to participate in the mitzvah of sitting and dining in the Sukkah, as well as shaking the lulav and etrog; this event will conclude with a brief creative service. As Sukkot ends, we have with Simchat Torah evening service on Monday October 13 at 6:30 p.m., during which we will hold a consecration ceremony for our newest TERS students. We encourage the entire Jewish Community to join us as we welcome these learners into our community of lifelong learning. Rounding out the October holidays, we will have Shemini Atzeret services, with Yizkor, on Tuesday October 14 at 10:00 a.m. On October 19 and 26, from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m., we will present a two-part discussion series on Death and Dying. This may be a challenging topic for some, yet it remains an important aspect to address. Additional details will follow. In November, we will commemorate Veterans’ Day with a special Shabbat service on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., honoring those who have served. To conclude the month, a Musical Shabbaton is planned for the weekend of November 14, highlighting the talents of Sue Horowitz and Julie Silver. A dedicated flyer with further information will be distributed soon. B’Shalom, Sam Winograd Religious Practices High Holiday Volunteer Notice If you are interested in volunteering for a reading part for the High Holiday Services, please send an email to SWinograd@comcast.net, with the subject “High Holiday Reading”. Indicate your preference for which services and English or Hebrew. |
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