The High Holidays at The Shul were the most beautiful yet, with standing-room-only crowds throughout. Hundreds of men, women, and children experienced prayer, learning, inspiration, friendship, and delicious meals.
We’re deeply grateful to Cantor Mendel for once again leading services with song and spirit, to our daughters Mushka, Chana, Rochel, Rivkah, Shaina Liba and Chaya T. for helping with set up and leading the children’s service, and to my dear wife, Esty Zaklikofsky, for orchestrating all the meals and children’s programs over the High Holidays. Thank you as well to our security guards and BPD officers who help keep us safe as we gather as a community.
After breaking the fast, we learned of the tragic terrorist attack on a synagogue in Manchester, UK. Shortly after, I watched a video clip of a colleague in London sharing the story of a 99-year-old congregant who, despite her frailty, attended services yesterday for the first time in a long while. When asked why she came, she replied, “When a Shul is attacked, I show up to Shul.”
While the natural instinct might be to retreat, this remarkable woman demonstrates the correct response: when Jewish people are targeted, we come back stronger. For all of us, our reaction should be to show up this week and beyond and to strengthen our Jewish identity and pride.
Before the conclusion of Yom Kippur, we discussed ways to translate the inspiration of the High Holidays into the days, weeks, and months ahead. Some suggestions:
- Light Shabbat candles regularly
- Wrap Tefillin more often or acquire a set
- Attend Shul at least once-a-month
- Attend a weekly Torah class
- Post a Mezuzah, or add one to your home
- Add Kosher to your diet
- Consider exploring Mikvah (Contact Esty)