Rabbi Craig’s Introductory Message

Shalom Sha’arei Shalom!

I am so delighted to have this opportunity to say hello and thanks for inviting me to be your new rabbi. I am grateful to Rabbi Eric for making the introduction and to Carolyn Fertig, the Search Committee, and the Board for opening the door. And, meeting some of you, whether at the Mock Seder, Kabbalat Shabbat, or both, is such a blessing. I appreciate your being there.

In our Torah portion this week, parashat Emor, God summons Moses to instruct the Israelites to bring clear olive oil for kindling the sacred lamps regularly (Lev. 24:2) In this teaching, I see great power, relevance, and direction. Namely, just like our ancestors, we are called to kindle the light of Judaism on a consistent basis. Whether it’s learning Torah or practicing holidays or celebrating life or mourning loss or making Jewish decisions every day, we have the age-old opportunity to make our Judaism matter. And in so doing, we position ourselves to flourish – to live a good life, to be a force for good; to sustain and heal the world; to make each day a blessing. feel privileged to help you do all of that and will dedicate myself to being present in your lives and in the collective experience of our community.

Thanks again. I look forward to getting better acquainted. In the meantime, I wish you a Shabbat shalom v’shleimut – a Sabbath of peace and wholeness.

Zei gezunt (Be well)!

Craig