Dear Friends, The Hebrew month of Elul begins tonight, the evening of Sunday, August 8th, at sundown, and with it comes the opportunity to prepare and set our intention for the arrival of the Holy Days.The Maharal of Prague taught that "All the month of Elul, before eating and sleeping, a person should look into their soul and search their deeds," in order to repair the wrongs they have done. Elul brings the opportunity to begin that work with reflection and intention.
We highly recommend that you try the App. It is available at the Apple Store and on Google Play. It comes with tools to enrich the experience. Each day presents a phrase from Psalm 27, a reflection for focus, and an opportunity to write and sit quietly. The app includes all the essentials: spoken versions of the psalm, daily reminders, writing prompts, and a meditation timer. Accompanied by photographs and musical settings of the text by contemporary musicians and cantors, the Psalm 27 app will inspire and empower you to experience the High Holy Day season with intention and an open heart.
Each week we will work on our preparation as individuals and for those who choose we will also have the opportunity to gather with others for reflection on Zoom once a week on Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m. We will meet on August 15, 22, 29 and September 5. Each week members of the Temple Shaari Emeth and Temple Shalom Clergy will lead the discussion. Rabbi Melinda Panken, Cantor Wally Shachet Briskin, Rabbi Larry Malinger and Cantor Sarah Zemel will lead an informal reflection on what you found challenging or inspiring from your preparation that week. You may join us for however many sessions you would like.
