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Rosh Hashanah Reflections

22/09/2020 09:10:02 AM

Sep22

Dear Congregational Family,

While Ma Nishtana is recited on Pesach, the sentiment applies to Rosh Hashanah. How different was this new year at shul and at home. Several silver linings point to some amazing phenomena. While in house sanctuary services were limited to small numbers, 765 households participated via livestream on the first day. 630 households participated via livestream on the second day. In addition, many young family households participated via livestream to participate in Rabbi Grundland's creative service and program. I extend Yasher Koach to all of you who participated and to those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the livestream possible.

Another Rosh Hashanah silver lining was the tremendous turnout for outdoor Shofar soundings. A half hour after the sanctuary service finished on Sunday, I was emotionally overwhelmed to see some 200 people safely distanced in the shul parking lot to hear the Shofar. I was virtually speechless as the spirituality of the moment overtook me. Old and young, singles, couples, and families were present. Some 70 people attended a young families Shofar sounding. About 100 people attended  shofar sounding at Tashlich. Another 50 gathered outside the shul before Mincha to hear the Shofar.

I learned some valuable lessons. People are thirsting for community and spirituality. I am proud of our congregation's involvement over Rosh Hashanah.

Ma Nishtana - The Rosh Hashanah experience was truly different and truly memorable.

I wish everyone Gmar Chatima Tova - May we be completely sealed for a healthy, safe, and good new year.

Rabbi Howard Morrison

Fri, 29 March 2024 19 Adar II 5784