Message From the Rabbi

At this time of year, shortly before Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, the High Holy Days, Rabbis often feel that they must criticize and upbraid their congregations about their shortcomings. A good Rabbi will include himself as one of the objects of that criticism. It is rare, however, that either the pulpit or the written word be used to praise the congregation, particularly now, with the New Year approaching. Today is the exception.

Yesterday, in one of the more popular blogs, there appeared a description of a blogger’s experience attending Shabbat morning davening at the Roslyn Synagogue this past week. His entry was titled “Observance Level Has Nothing to do With the Friendliness of a Shul.” His point was that contrary to his experience in most Modern Orthodox Synagogues, our shul was friendly and welcoming and provided a great kiddush too!

We should be proud. Hachnassat orchim is a mitzvah, one of the few that our Rabbis remind us is limitless in its performance. It is a hallmark of our Shul. At the same time, we must never become complacent. We can always do better and we can always do more. Those of us who have not yet done so can open their homes to guests. We can be more welcoming, engaging and friendly to guests and newcomers.

This is but one mitzvah. May the new year bring us new determination to strengthen not only our committment to hachnassat orchim, but to all other mitzvot as well.

Beile joins me in wishing everyone a Shana Tova U’Metukah, as sweet and wonderful New Year.

 Shana Tova Tikatayvu Vetaychataymu.