Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

One of my favorite Hebrew songs goes as follows: "Kol Ha'OlamKuloGesherTzarM'od. V'Ha'IkarLo L'FachedKlal- The entire world is a narrow bridge. The essential thing is not to fear at all."

For those who do not know the music, I encourage you to go on line, hear the melody, and learn it for yourself. The Hebrew in song form is more powerful and meaningful than a mere English translation.

If there were ever a time when the world was truly a narrow bridge, now is that time. All humanity is united through the plague of Covid-19. No one in the world is exempt. No place in the world is untouched.

The second part of the song is our challenge, hope, and inspiration - "The essential thing is not to fear at all." Many individuals on their own are fearful about the changes taking place in society regarding health, economy, employment, watching and educating children, and more.

To combat anxiety about the present and unforeseeable future, we need the presence of a spiritual, empathetic, and caring community. At Beth Emeth, our volunteer Chesedcommittee is calling and assisting hundreds and hundreds of our members. If you have not received a kindness call and want one, let our clergy or office know.

In addition, our office continues to function and promote our on line programming. Our clergy team is reaching out with davening, music, DivreiTorah, and topical learning.

After the Second Temple was destroyed, and the ritual sacrifices could no longer be brought, it was determined that one would find atonement by performing acts of "Chesed- Lovingkindness."

I hope and pray that our synagogue's outreach efforts along with individual people's own sense of goodness will keep our community spiritually and emotionally strong as we walk on a narrow bridge together into the world of the unknown.

Be safe. Be healthy. Be well. Better days are coming.

Rabbi Howard Morrison