Rabbi Shapiro's May Bulletin Message

For Your Consideration
Rabbi Mark Dov Shapiro

What a powerful month we look forward to in May.

We will, of course, be celebrating the extraordinary milestone of Israel’s 60th birthday. Virtually no one in the Jewish world of the last 100 years would have ever imagined that Jewish sovereignty would be restored. But the impossible did take place in 1948, and we will celebrate this remarkable event in two ways this month. First, we will be showing two fascinating films on May 1 & 10. Secondly, we will have a Temple “party” on Friday, May 9.

Later in the month we will celebrate a different kind of anniversary. Our friend and teacher, Rabbi Jerome Gurland, is celebrating his 50th (!) year as a rabbi. To honor him, we plan a special Shabbat evening on Friday, May 23 at 8 p.m.

Most importantly, on Friday, May 16, we are going to mark a profound transformation for Sinai. Our beloved friend, teacher, and counselor, Cantor Mekler, will be leaving the congregation at the end of this month. But before that happens, every member of the Sinai community is invited to celebrate the Cantor with an evening of memories, music, and laughter. To give us plenty of time, we are even starting the evening at 7 p.m. Emily has been a part of Sinai for as long as I have known the congregation. She is synonymous with Sinai for almost everyone. I hope you can be with us on May 16 as we sadly but lovingly wish her shalom.

Prior Bulletin Messages from the Rabbi are available on this site.