Rabbi's Message

In a world with so much uncertainty, it is important to have things that root us.  Family, friends, community, traditions – all of these things can help serve that purpose.  Something else that helps us to root us is our calendar, which in Judaism sets the rhythm of the year and reminds us of our story and values.  This Shabbat is Shabbat HaHodesh.  We will take a second Torah from the ark and read Exodus 12, which begins with the words “HaHodesh Hazeh Lakhem Rosh Hodashim – This will be for you the first of the months.”  According to Rashi, this is the first mitzvah of the Torah, the creation of the common Jewish calendar.  These words will be read at TBS on Shabbat morning and by Jews worldwide.  They are a reminder of what unites us and the role that we each play in instilling and living those values all year long. 

One way we can tangibly express this lesson is by voting in the World Zionist Elections, which are taking place now.  This election has significant implications for the future of Israel, and is an expression of our place among klal Yisrael – the Jewish people. We encourage you to vote for Mercaz, Slate 17, which is the Zionist arm of the Conservative/Masorti Movement.  

Mercaz supports our values in Israel, including building a pluralistic and democratic Israel that recognizes all streams of Judaism, as well as helping to support shlihim (Israeli emissaries) program at our camps and communities.  You can click here to watch a short video about Mercaz and the elections to get a better sense of what’s at stake. You can also come to shul this Shabbat to hear from our friend Rabbi Arie Hasit, who has come from Israel to speak about the importance of supporting at our Wine and Cheese reception before Shabbat on Friday night and after kiddush on Shabbat morning.  

Details are below.  If you are over 18, you can vote right now by going to www.mercazusa.org/votenow  It takes 5 minutes and $5 (an administrative fee for the election).  After you vote, please share the word on social media.  In the first two weeks of the election, more than 80,000 total votes have been cast, representing a 140+% increase over the votes cast in the first two weeks of the last election in 2020.  This means we have our work cut out for us, as we must ensure that Mercaz keeps pace with the overall turnout.  So, right now, click on the link and make your voice heard.  And together, we will strengthen Israel, our values, and our people.