In other articles, we have described the additional services that we are holding this year. I join in Jim’s request that you give them a try, and let us know your reaction. I also ask that each of you try to take time to be welcoming to those who are new to our services and our community. There is no better time than the High Holidays to meet and get to know someone new, and I am sure that welcoming the stranger among us is very high on the list of Mitzvot.
We also know that the High Holidays is a time to reflect upon community. As Jim notes, there is a universality of practice and observation within the Jewish community at time such as this. Whenever I hear the Shofar being sounded, I cannot help but hear the sound being repeated around the world, from synagogue to synagogue, from mountaintop to mountaintop. As we recite together, with ancient tune and ancient words, the Kol Nidre prayer, it is as if the entire worldwide Jewish community is praying together with one heartbeat and one soul. Yes, there are many variations in how we pray, how we sing, how we teach and learn, and how we share. But one of the hallmarks of the High Holy Days is the recognition of the importance of commonality and community.
So, on behalf our community – the Brattleboro Area Jewish Community – let me welcome each one of you and wish you a happy and healthy new year. BAJC will be offering a wonderful array of events and programs. We hope to see you throughout the year, participating with us, sharing the one heartbeat that links us together.
B'Shalom,
Paul
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