| October 2024
This month is filled with Holy Days that ask us to look inward at ourselves, outward towards those we are in relationship with, and also bring us into new beginnings. It is important to check in with ourselves to make sure that we are doing those things that help us to be good people. How do we treat ourselves and those that are in our circle of family and acquaintances? We strive to be understanding, empathetic, kind, and helpful to those around us. Did we hit the mark or did we often lose patience with people when we were tired or stressed? Did we forgive ourselves for things we have done as we also strive to ask for forgiveness or forgive those who may have hurt us? During the weeks leading up to the High Holy Days we should be asking ourselves these questions and doing the work necessary to forgive, be forgiven, and start anew. By the time the holidays are over, we have hopefully completed those tasks that allow us to move forward and begin again with new intention and awareness. Let this year, 5785, be the year that we are all truly successful. Speaking of new beginnings, I was asked by Sisterhood to begin a Rosh Chodesh group. Rosh Chodesh means “Head of the Month,” and begins every month with the new moon. Jewish tradition considers the new moon as the first sliver of moon that you see. I have always loved the moon and have taken hundreds of photos of it over the years in its different phases. Rosh Chodesh is more than just enjoying the beauty of the moon, it is a way to nourish our mind, body, and soul through prayer, meditation, intention, sharing, music, and ritual. Women have held a special relationship with the reemergence of the moon and have been celebrating it for thousands of years. This ancient ritual is a very special time for women to come together and connect on a deeper level. A chance to get to know ourselves better, renewing ourselves as we learn Kiddush Levana, Blessing of the Moon, so we can bless each new moon. The Talmud teaches us that saying the blessing of the new moon is a time to celebrate the reappearance of the Shechinah, the feminine divine presence, personally. I’m excited to lead this group and hope that this meaningful legacy will leave us feeling renewed, energized, and prepared to welcome each new month ahead of us with intention. Please check the Sisterhood article for the date and time of the Rosh Chodesh Group. Looking forward to seeing you there. A big thank you to all of my Torah and Haftarah readers, our TE Choir, Michael McCarthy our accompanist, Jose Cordero our shofar blower, Victor Johnson our cellist, and all those who took part in High Holy Day services, whether you were on or off the bimah. L’shanah Tovah U’mitukah!
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