Rabbinic Intern Jen's Bi-Monthly Message
November/December 2019
Dear Friends,
The past few months have been so full of first experiences and blessings of getting acquainted, learning, and praying together. As I admire the changing seasons, I am again surprised at how quickly time can go by. When I last wrote, I shared two texts that resonated for me in that moment. The fullness of the past few months and the speed of time passing brought to mind another text to share with you.
Psalm 23:5 states, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over.” Rashi interprets the cup running over as language of satisfaction. Over the past few months, I have been blessed to collaborate with Cantor Vera in the religious school, at services, and with adult education. Your community has welcomed me warmly and expressed support of my learning. On a personal note, I want to thank you especially for your patience and understanding when I have needed to depart quickly for my eldest child’s, Caleb’s, broken wrist and when I needed to take a scheduled Saturday off in order to process my grief over the death of my classmate Jill Segal. I am grateful to be in community with you and feel my cup running over from all of the opportunities to pray and learn together and from the compassion and kindness you extend to me.
On Sh’mini Atzeret, Cantor Vera asked me during announcements when I would be back with you. I realized in that moment that sharing the dates when I will be at Temple Emanu-El is important. With that in mind, here are the dates through December when I will be with you:
The past few months have been so full of first experiences and blessings of getting acquainted, learning, and praying together. As I admire the changing seasons, I am again surprised at how quickly time can go by. When I last wrote, I shared two texts that resonated for me in that moment. The fullness of the past few months and the speed of time passing brought to mind another text to share with you.
Psalm 23:5 states, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over.” Rashi interprets the cup running over as language of satisfaction. Over the past few months, I have been blessed to collaborate with Cantor Vera in the religious school, at services, and with adult education. Your community has welcomed me warmly and expressed support of my learning. On a personal note, I want to thank you especially for your patience and understanding when I have needed to depart quickly for my eldest child’s, Caleb’s, broken wrist and when I needed to take a scheduled Saturday off in order to process my grief over the death of my classmate Jill Segal. I am grateful to be in community with you and feel my cup running over from all of the opportunities to pray and learn together and from the compassion and kindness you extend to me.
On Sh’mini Atzeret, Cantor Vera asked me during announcements when I would be back with you. I realized in that moment that sharing the dates when I will be at Temple Emanu-El is important. With that in mind, here are the dates through December when I will be with you:
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November 9
November 17 November 23 December 13 December 15 December 28 |
Shabbat morning service
Religious School, Author Series Shabbat morning service Chanukah Shabbat service Religious School Chanukah party Shabbat morning service |
As I look at the different times I will spend with you over the next two months, each date feels like another drop of sweetness in my cup. I hope you will consider filling your own cup over the next few months by joining me at these times and by engaging with the wonderful community you have at Temple Emanu-El.
Bivracha, with blessings,
Jen
Bivracha, with blessings,
Jen