Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

We at Beth Emeth will always remember bus #21, the bus on which some forty-five members of our shul will ride to and from Ottawa this coming Monday. The Canadian pro-Israel rally will be historic and memorable. Several hundred full buses along with many others driving and flying will create a scene unprecedented in Canadian Jewish history. At a time of loneliness felt by Jews around the world, we will know how united we are as Jews, and how the Jewish community comes together and cares for its own.

It is noteworthy that in the week's Parsha, we read the origin of the name Yisrael-Israel, which means one who has struggled with God and prevailed. The origin story harkens to the patriarch, Jacob, who wrestles with some kind of being or within himself. In his physical and existential struggle, Jacob understands that the destiny of the people of Israel will be a nation which struggles on one level and which always prevails on another level.

For those joining us on bus #21, we will daven Shacharit on the way for those who are saying Kaddish and/or want to pray in a Minyan. It is up to the individual to bring Tallit and Tefillin. While we will bring some Siddurim on the bus, you may choose to bring your own. We will also bring handouts which will enable us to recite the prayers for Israel, the IDF, the hostages, and some other passages together. While APEX catering will provide two meals, individuals should bring additional food and drink if they wish.

On this coming Shabbat which introduces the name "Yisrael," how meaningful it will be when thousands upon thousands of Canadian Jews unite in our nation's Capital because of our love and support for the people and the State of Israel.

Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Howard Morrison