Shabbat Shalom,
This weekend, we have the privilege of hosting Alex Friedman, a rabbinical student from the Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS), through the JTS Student Ambassador Initiative. This program selects a group of outstanding rabbinical students to visit Conservative synagogues around the country over Shabbat, offering vibrant educational programming and strengthening connections between JTS, its students, and Jewish communities like ours.
The goals of this program are inspiring and deeply aligned with our values at Shaarei Kodesh: enhancing our Shabbat experience with dynamic learning opportunities, fostering mentorship between passionate Jewish educators and future leaders, and introducing our youth to the possibility of pursuing a career in Jewish leadership. I’m especially excited about this program because it reflects the enduring mission of JTS to prepare the next generation of rabbis, cantors, and educators to serve our people with knowledge, passion, and commitment.
As many of you know, JTS holds a special place in my heart. Fifteen years ago, I graduated from JTS after spending some of the most formative years of my life immersed in Torah study and community building. I learned from some of the greatest minds in Jewish thought, whose teachings continue to guide me today. I also formed lifelong friendships with fellow rabbis, educators, and cantors; relationships that have enriched my rabbinate and my life.
This Shabbat, Alex Friedman will bring the energy and inspiration of JTS directly to our congregation. On Friday night, as part of our “Spirits" of Shabbat experience, Alex will lead us in a Nigun Circle—a beautiful gathering of wordless melodies that allow us to express feelings and spirituality beyond words. Nigunim are not only deeply moving but also bring much Shabbat joy to anyone who takes part! I hope you’ll join us for this uplifting start to Shabbat.
On Shabbat morning, Alex will lead us in Shacharit and Lunch & Learn on a fascinating question: “If You Stole Something, Do You Have to Return It?” This session promises to spark thought-provoking discussion as we explore the intricacies of Jewish law and ethics.
On Sunday morning, Alex will guide us in an intergenerational program titled “Commanded to Love?” We will explore the Shema’s timeless message of love and its implications for our lives and relationships. This session is designed to bring together students, parents, grandparents, and extended family in a meaningful learning experience.
I encourage everyone to take part in this special weekend. The JTS Student Ambassador Initiative not only enriches our Shabbat programming but also gives us a glimpse into the future of Jewish leadership. Alex’s visit is a wonderful opportunity to connect with the next generation of rabbis and educators while strengthening our own community’s ties to JTS.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi David Baum
In this week’s Baum’s Branches:
- 📝 Last Shabbat’s Sermon: "Protecting Our Hearts: Confronting Evil Without Losing Ourselves"—included for you to revisit or explore for the first time.
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🗣️ Annual Meeting D’var Torah: Reflections on Parashat Bo, shared at our Annual Meeting, connecting themes of freedom, leadership, and responsibility.
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📖 Parashat Bo Sermons: Links to sermons that delve into the week’s parashah and its connection to:
- 🌍 International Holocaust Remembrance Day: Observed on Monday, January 27, reflecting on the lessons of the past.
- 🕯️ Themes of memory, resilience, and hope woven through our shared story.
Take a moment to reflect, remember, and find inspiration.
Click on the Boxes Below to Read This Week's Baum's Branches
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