Mazel Tov X 20 something

Thank you to the Israel Campus of HUC (Hebrew Union College) the educational institution of the Reform movement. The setting of their dining room and its terrace was truly magnificent for such a ceremony.

Working together with Rabbi Adam Wohlberg on this program made it easy and smooth. Over 20 children and adults became Bnei Mitzvah at this service. For some this was a prelude to a larger more individualized service which will take place in the coming months. For others, who expressed different versions of this sentiment, this event ended decades of feeling something missing.

Some expressed never having had the opportunity for financial or religious reasons, but all I believe will agree, it was an unforgettable and moving experience. It was inspirational to see people advanced in age, take part intimately for the first time in any jewish service. The young people who participated worked to prepare their sections and executed them expertly.

On a more personal note, our dear friend Baruch Schwartz came even before we began the service with a package from his wife Berta. What you ask was in the package? Only her delicious Mandel bread of which we never get enough.

Rose led the Ashrei as she learned to the Shabbat mincha nusach that we posit indicates the sadness that the end of shabbat is near. Would that the magic of shabbat and its prism view of olam haba remain. Rory chanted the 2nd Aliyah of paras hat vayechi and did we shepp naches!