As you have already read in this bulletin, Rabbi Shapiro will be taking a few months of much-deserved sabbatical. This means I am going to be "minding the store," and I expect that I will be a rather busy Cantor during the next three months. But that's OK with me; in fact, I see Rabbi's sabbatical as an interesting opportunity.

One of the things that attracted me to the Cantorate was the fact that it was NOT just a musical position. Being a Cantor in the 21st century means I teach Jews of all ages (not just B'nai-Mitzvah students, and not just music), I can lead services, I can write divrey Torah, I can make pastoral visits, I can spiritually counsel, I can do baby namings, weddings, and funerals. Oh, yes, and as part of my job I occasionally get to sing and play the guitar!

In the coming months, I hope that I will get to know some members of Sinai Temple a little better. Rabbi Shapiro won't be here, but I will. I am grateful for the trust that Rabbi and the leadership of Sinai have shown in me, and for their thoughtful analysis of what "Rabbinic" duties should be my responsibility, and what can be done by capable, volunteer laypeople. If there is a simcha (joyful event) in your life, I look forward to sharing it with you. If you find yourself in the hospital, I will come and visit you. And if, God forbid, death touches your family, I will do what I can to bring some portion of comfort from our tradition.

It's the middle of a New England winter. The days are short, the nights are long, and it's cold outside. But there are lots of warm and wonderful things happening here at Sinai in the coming months. Please join us; I look forward to seeing you as I (metaphorically) wear two kippot.

Ivdu et Hashem B’simcha! Serve the Holy One with Joy!

Ivdu et Hashem B’simcha! Serve the Holy One with Joy!

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