Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

I am grateful that periodically I am given the opportunity to recharge my academic and spiritual batteries. Notwithstanding the challenges raised by Covid, I will be studying as a full time student over a four week period from January 24 through February 24. I will have the privilege of learning from some great minds representing a variety of ideologies and perspectives on Judaism and Jewish texts.

From my alma mater, the Jewish Theological Seminary, I will be taking two classes with renowned scholars: Haftarot and Megillot as well the concept of shame in rabbinic text sources.

From Yeshivat Hadar, I will be taking Jewish holidays as portrayed in Midrashim, images of God in rabbinic texts, and the commentary of "Sfat Emet" on the weekly Parsha.

From a community Beit Midrash in Teaneck, I will be auditing presentations on Talmud, Tanach and Machshava (different perspectives on philosophical topics).

It has been a long time since I have immersed myself full time in the study of a variety of topics, texts, and methods of interpretation. I hope to stimulate myself spiritually and educationally and share the best of my studies upon my return.

Given that we are a large congregation and active both in shul and on line, Rabbi Sean Gorman, a friend and colleague of mine, will be filling in for me for the four weeks that I will be studying. In recent years, Rabbi Gorman has served at Beth Tzedec and at Pride of Israel. The congregation will be in good hands with him and Rabbi David Grundland.

This Shabbat, we will read the Ten Commandments in Parshat Yitro. According to legend, each Israelite heard the words of Torah in a personal and particular way which enabled every person to appreciate and grow on a meaningful and appropriate level. I hope and pray that will be my experience over the next few weeks.

I wish everyone health, safety, and wellbeing. Please continue to find ways to be involved in your own Jewish growth by checking the wide array of services, classes, and programs in shul and on line.

Sincerely,

Rabbi Howard Morrison