Dear Hevreh,

As I mentioned yesterday, I spent the day in New York City meeting with Cantor Levine, members, and mentors.  It was a whirlwind day of stories, advice, and information, but I left feeling one word…invigorated.  In other words, it was one of those days when you don’t feel as tired as you do on other days, because you know you did something worthwhile, meaningful, and interesting.  Here are a couple of the snippets I learned that I posted throughout the day on Twitter via #PerthAmboyShul:

From Cheryl August whose family has been affiliated with Beth Mordecai for generations:  No matter where she is, whether it’s Italy or New York City, Temple Beth Mordecai is her spiritual home

From Karen Klein whose father helped bring Rabbi Barry Dov Schwartz to Beth Mordecai:  There is a tightness to the people who grew up in our community that continues to last no matter where we live

From my mentor, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove, who gave me some sage, and basic advice:  Don’t overthink, bring energy, and be yourself

And from Cantor David Levine…well, check out this video I took of him describing why he loves the High Holidays:

Why I Love the High Holidays — YouTube Link

Today, I also met Matt Richter and heard the story of his Jewish journey and I left again feeling…invigorated. 

It is such a privilege to be your rabbi and to spend the time getting to know you and learning what makes this community, this congregation, and this Temple so special.  And it is special.  i feel it, just like Cheryl, Karen, Matt, Harriet, Norman, Michael, Vardi, Elliot, Larry, Scott…and all of us feel just how special this place is.   

As we work together in this holy work, may we strive to be invigorated each day with our love for each other, for our community, and for our faith.

Until tomorrow…

Kol Tuv, 

Rabbi Ari Saks

#PerthAmboyShul

Category : Rabbi Rabbi's Journal
Tag : #perthamboyshul barry dov schwartz cantor david levine cheryl august community elliot cosgrove high holidays karen klein rabbi rabbi's journal