Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester

Message from Rabbi Goldsmith: This week Jews around the world will hear the words of the Ten Commandments read from the Torah. These iconic commandments have incredible symbolic power. Yes, the words themselves matter, but the idea they represent changed the course of history. Namely, laws matter. Rulers and judges and enforcement officers matter too, but in the end, laws properly run a just society. Even if your do not hear them this Shabbat, take a moment to consider the rules and ideals by which you live your life. Doing so, you will join the ancient tradition of striving for our highest and best selves.

Shabbat Shalom!

Message from Rabbi Goldsmith: In a class I once taught about religion, a student (in his 70s) incredulously asked, So what you’re saying is religion is a crutch?! I replied, Of courseand who doesn’t need a crutch sometimes? These are hard times and there are resources available through the congregation and the Jewish community to help.... First, remember that your clergy are always here for you. Need to talk? Contact Cantor Stone me. Next, our Director of Education, Naomi Fabes, and Jane Dubro have partnered with the Youth Mental Health Project to offer Mental Health 101: Parent Session. Learn to spot signs of emotional, mental, or behavioral health issues and help your kids get the help they need. Contact Naomi or Jane for information on this and several other programs in the coming months. Finally, through our partnership with Westchester Jewish Community Services, all Emanu-El congregants have access to the WJCS Hub where they can access career services, mental health counseling, kosher home delivered meals, and referrals to community resources to assist with food insecurity, cash assistance, financial counseling and more. Get more information at https://bit.ly/3pqseoe. Your Jewish community is a crutch for youif you need it, please lean on us. We are all here for you.

We were joined by congregant Marc Rod, a reporter for Jewish Insider, who was at the U.S. Capitol Building when it was stormed last Wednesday. We heard his first hand account of what happened as well as his reflections on the implications for the Jewish community. We were lucky to have Marc's perspective and hope you will log on for this important program. #insurrection