As I write these words, a ceasefire has been announced between Israel and Hamas.
I actually have mixed feelings about the ceasefire. On one hand, I want peace and security. I have five children and two grandchildren living in Israel. I also care deeply about all Israelis and constantly worry about our brave Israeli soldiers.
On the other hand, I am equally afraid that Hamas will use the ceasefire as another opportunity to stockpile more rockets to use in the future. This is what they’ve done in the past. Add to this the general turmoil and unrest in the Middle East and we all have reason to be concerned. I
celebrate peace and believe in it. In fact, the Hebrew word for peace, “Shalom,” is actually one of G-d’s many names. Over the course of this summer, while the crisis in Israel has been playing out, the word “Peace” has been on all of our lips. As we begin this High Holiday season, let us focus our prayers on Israel and its basic human right to live in peace with their neighbours.
This will be my first Rosh Hashana as the full-time Rabbi at Beth Zion Congregation. It is an honour and a privilege that I do not take lightly. We recently began a very important membership campaign. The committee chose as its slogan: “Preserving Tradition — Embracing the Future.”
These words are more than a mere slogan; they serve as a reminder of our congregation’s identity and history as we chart our path moving forward. Our religious and cultural identity is as solid as the very cornerstone that was laid almost sixty years ago. This is what preserving tradition is all about. As a Shul community, we need to look at where we are going. While remaining true to Modern Orthodoxy, we need to focus on the nature of the programs we run, the flavour of our services, the role of women in our Shul and the life cycle events. We need to meet the needs of our changing communal demographics. Embracing the future is a mandate that we do not take lightly. These are exciting times for our Shul and community.
In this issue of the Pillar there are many exciting events and programs scheduled; from traditional Torah study to “DAT – Dinner & Torah,” our Cantorial Concert, engaging guest speakers on topics from politics to medical ethics and family activities for the holidays. Beth Zion is a vibrant active synagogue. Whether you join us for the holidays, an event, a class or a lecture, Beth Zion is your synagogue and the door is always open.
On behalf of Raizie and myself I want to wish each and every one of you a Shana Tova, a Sweet and Happy & Healthy New Year.
Rabbi Boruch Perton
