Rabbi Diana's Weekly Message

Dear Hevre,

All week long I have been glowing and reliving the memories of this past Sunday’s celebration in honor of my 10 (really 11!) years at KHN. The organizers put boundless loving attention and care into creating a flawless event that not only showered me with appreciation, love and honor but brought the community together in a way that fostered a sense of belonging and gratitude for our special Little Shul by the River.

I was also reminded that while we are committed to moving forward with multi-access opportunities for connecting, just as there are times for all Zoom events (Board meetings, some Torah study/Bagel U events) so too are there special moments when we are only in person with all of our attention in the here and now - which feels precious and rare these days. Thank you to the organizers for their brilliant and tuned-in party planning; to those who attended the gathering; to those who have given donations marking my 10 years at KHN; to those who have written on the Kudoboard (it's still up) and to those who couldn’t come but whose heart was there.

As we are in the parashah of Korach, we see that indeed leadership is crucial, but as importantly all people need to feel empowered in order for a community to thrive. There are so many ways you are bringing your time, talents and efforts to help KHN thrive. If there are other ways you’d like to get involved or want to explore the subject with me, please reach out and I’d be happy to discuss opportunities with you.

*Each year we have teens become b’nai mitzvah at KHN, a meaningful and joyous event. As an adult, would you like to become part of a group who has a re-bar/bat mitzvah or becomes one for the first time? Please let me know and I will see if there is an interest in a group engaging in deep learning opportunities including reading Hebrew and learning cantillation.

Also, it has recently come to my attention that Nefesh Mountain, a fabulous bluegrass band who regularly performs at Reconstructing Judaism conventions and Camp Havaya is coming to Frenchtown next Saturday evening, July 9^th. Scott and I will be attending. We hope to see you there! [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nefesh-mountain-tickets-343372675917]

This evening, unless it is raining, we will be meeting outside for Shabbat services and on Zoom at: 

Kabbalat Shabbat 

I hope that you have a happy July 4th weekend. Let’s work to make sure that our democracy continues and flourishes!

Shabbat shalom,

Rabbi Diana