Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

The resiliency of our community is amazing to me during this time of being isolated and shut in. The dynamism of the Jewish people continues to astound me.

A week ago Sunday, I participated in a virtual Bar Mitzvah on Zoom with some 100 virtual guests with the celebrant family in their home. The Bar Mitzvah young man chanted his readings from a Torah scroll and delivered his Dvar Torah, all which were originally scheduled for the prior day in our shul.

Yesterday afternoon, I participated in a wedding on Zoom with colleagues from Beth Tzedec. The wedding was originally scheduled to take place in our shul at the same time.

In addition, I have been in discussion with families about conducting baby namings via Zoom.

The thought and creativity being put into public virtual celebrations of sacred lifecycle moments testify to the brilliance of the Jewish people.

Our joys and celebrations may be structured differently for a while, but the continuity of our people and way of life will not be hindered or compromised.

On a separate note, I want to remind everyone that our caterer, Apex, can prepare your Seder plate and Passover meals for pickup at the shul. You do not need to risk going out into public shopping centers. Take a look at the Apex website which can be found via the shul website.

I wish everyone continued optimism and faith. The clergy, office, volunteer leadership, and I are here to assist.

Shavua Tov,

Rabbi Howard Morrison