Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

One of the challenges facing many of us these days is facilitating our children's education on the internet. This has been the case for our Beth Emeth Bar/Bat Mitzvah program.

In years past, the rabbis and youth director  of our shul have met with upcoming Bnai Mitzvah on a monthly basis, integrating field trips, Shabbatons, and on site discussions on topics pertaining to Jewish values.

This year, due to the pandemic, we have had to think and plan creatively using the internet. To his credit, Rabbi David Grundland has creatively organized three independent units of on line programming for our newest adults and their families.

The first four part unit which will conclude this coming Sunday has been entitled, Jewish identity and the Land of Israel. The first three weekly sessions included a virtual tour of Jerusalem, the meaning of Zionism, and Jewish pride through Israeli arts and culture. The last session will be a debrief with me and Rabbi Grundland.

Each week, a guest expert led and interacted with our Bnai Mitzvah youth. Approximately fifteen of our young people invested three consecutive Sunday mornings to attain a greater appreciation of their Jewish identities. I extend a Yasher Koach to our youth, their families, Rabbi Grundland, and our guest presenters. The programs were dynamic, participatory, and relevant.

In this week's Parsha of Vayishlach, Jacob has his name changed to Israel-Yisrael. The word means one who struggles, prevails, and stands as an officer for God. This three fold meaning surrounds us as individuals and a nation. 

To our upcoming Bar and Bat Mitzvah young men and women, I congratulate you and welcome you into the fullness of Israel, the Mitzvot, and the Jewish way of life.

Sincerely,

Rabbi Howard Morrison