In this month of Elul, we are self reflective. Our tradition gives us vehicles to focus us the process of improving ourselves, of repentance, of t'shuvah. Like most meaningful activities, preparation is needed. Two new Elul study offerings are available this week:  Music of the High Holidays with Cantor Susan Lewis Friedman on Wednesday night and The Gates are Closing with Bluma Stoller on Sunday morning (see descriptions below). Each year, on a Saturday night before Rosh HaShanah, our community comes together for S'lichot program and services. This year on September 24 at 9:00 p.m., Rabbi London and Cantor Friedman will lead us in study, conversation, reflection, and song to engage our souls, our minds and our hearts in this preparation process. We will then recite the S'lichot prayers and change the Torah covers to their traditional white mantles.   

Just as we try to improve ourselves, our congregation also works collectively to enhance itself. This year we are embarking on a process to foster a stronger culture of inclusion. Beth Emet is a participating synagogue in a JUF Community of Practice on inclusion of people’s with disabilities in our communities. Inclusion in not about doing things for people with disabilities. Inclusion is about supporting all peoples to be a part of the community. This demands some changes in both structure and practice, but also changes in spirit of belonging to foster a culture of inclusion. We add a ramp to the bima and we also make space for each other to participate in meaningful ways. We have a newly established Inclusion Committee to help us open our doors and hearts to people who require accommodations to participate. If you have a thought or would like to be a part of our thinking – please contact me.      

As we reflect on ourselves individually and as a community, we work to deepen our relationships and sense of belonging to others. We aim to diminish our own personal mistakes in our relationships and the obstacles in our synagogue in order to increase meaningful inclusion and belonging for all of us. 

Our reflection will bring us into meaningful celebration of the Fall Holiday season beginning with Rosh HaShanah on Sunday evening October 2. Our holiday observances include worship, study, Tashlich at the lake, family services, and joyful meals together during Sukkot. We look forward to a meaningful and community filled holiday season.