Shanah Tovah and G’mar Tovah.

Last year around this time, I talked about one thing quite a bit:

Showing up.

I said that synagogue life gives back what we put into it — and that there are many different ways to be part of Temple Hesed.

Well, over the past year, we showed up. And it made a difference. 

One thing I find meaningful about Jewish prayer is how often we pray in the plural. Not “I.” We.

What any one of us does — or doesn’t do — becomes part of what all of us do, or don’t do. That’s not an accident. That’s the point.

One place we’ve already put that into practice is Fair Share Membership.

And I’ll be honest with you — I wasn’t surprised by how we responded. Thoughtful, generous, all in.

That’s just who we are. When we’re asked to carry something together, we do.

It’s in our DNA.

Hesed means lovingkindness. But it’s more than kindness. It’s kindness joined with responsibility. It’s caring enough to act.

A congregation thrives when people at every age and stage — with different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences — have ways to connect, participate, and feel included. The more of us who find a way to take part, the stronger and more vibrant our community becomes.

So here’s my invitation:

Think about what brings you to Temple Hesed — and what you want from being part of this community.

It’s not the same thing for everyone, and that’s okay.

Maybe it’s worship. Maybe it’s friendship, tradition, learning, giving back, or simply **knowing there’s a Jewish community here when you need it.**

And maybe there’s something here you haven’t tried yet that could become part of that.

Celebrate Shabbat. Help organize the Second Night Passover Seder. Fill a bag for the food drive. Take an Adult Education class. Sponsor an Oneg. Star in the Purim Spiel. Suggest something new.

I know there’s something here that can make being part of Temple Hesed matter to each of us — and maybe even something we didn’t expect.

In 5787, I hope each of us finds more of what we’re looking for here — and gets to know one another a little better along the way.

May 5787 bring health, connection, and peace.

G’mar Tovah.