Dear Friends,
Many Jews around the world are currently observing a sacred period of the Jewish calendar year called, “the Counting of the Omer.” This observance is based on the biblical mandate to count bundles of grain (the omer) every day for 7 weeks from the second day of Passover through the festival of Shavuot.
Today, this ritual counting has more to do with cultivating the human spirit than it does with cultivating the land, and a modern interpretation of this ritual period of counting suggests that this ancient ritual encourages us to count our blessings.
In the spirit of counting our blessings, Shabbat services this week will focus on expressing gratitude for our members. We hope you will be able to join us for Appreciation Shabbat as we thank you for your ongoing support.
Our services will be shaped by a special musical program as Dr. Jane Becker returns to the bimah to join Mike Kahn. Jane blessed HCRJ with her voice for over 25 years, and Mike has been a blessing ever since. Together, their voices will bless us as we celebrate the membership of our beloved congregation.
L’Shalom,
Steve