A Message from The President
The Hebrew words “gam zeh ya’avor”, which in English translate to “this too shall pass”, have been evoked frequently for more than a year. We trace the origin of the phrase to the legends of King Solomon, who is traditionally portrayed as “wealthy and wise’. Scientists, clergy, politicians and other thought leaders seem to echo this message, assuring us that living with Covid-19 is a temporary inconvenience—a time of challenge that tries our patience and tests our resolve. I humbly concur with the hope that better, brighter days are ahead.
By this time most adults in our community have either been vaccinated or scheduled to receive the Covid vaccine. While we are urged to exercise caution and act responsibly to limit the risk of variant strain transmission, we can remind ourselves that this too shall pass, and our vision of returning to in-person gatherings, however large or small soon may be a reality. Already, outdoor services and b’nai mitzvah are occurring.
As I approach the one-year mark as Congregation Mishkan Israel’s president, I reflect on the unique circumstances that have characterized the year. Having begun my term of office during the 180th year of our beloved congregation’s history, this in itself being a distinct honor, I regret that this has been a “virtual” presidency. Throughout the past year I have not had the opportunity to meet and greet my fellow congregants in person, I have not been able to share the bimah nor follow our esteemed Rabbi Immerman and Cantor Giglio in parade around the sanctuary with the Torah. Sunday morning rituals have been modified, including coffee and a bagel at the Brotherhood of Men and Women’s café, Religious School students en route to their classes while their parents work peacefully on laptops in our library or lounge. These are just a few things of the vibes I miss and look forward to as we plan our return to a new normal.
Our Board of Trustees is enthusiastically approaching reopening as a time of renewal and strengthening of our congregation. A new slate of officers and trustees will be presented at our annual meeting (still via Zoom) on Sunday June 13, 2021 at 10:00 AM. Notice to follow.
Meanwhile there is so much activity that continues at CMI. Our Reopening Task Force, comprised primarily of educators and medical professionals, has been advising us on the safe, practical measures we should consider as we plan for upcoming lifecycle events, worship services and educational programming. Our Chesed Team continues its outreach to members of our congregation, checking on their well-being and offering assistance. Our Ritual Committee is helping us review and reimagine how to meet our diverse community’s spiritual needs. Throughout the pandemic, CMI’s social action efforts have not ceased. True to our heritage of social justice, our congregation has been engaged in tikkun olam, including an outstanding series on Confronting Racisim, refugee resettlement efforts with JCARR, interfaith activities through CONECT, as well as local efforts to promote affordable and equitable housing. At this writing, preparation for this year’s Pe’ah Garden are underway. Plans to maintain and preserve our historic synagogue building and cemetery are ongoing.
Yes, gam zeh ya’avor! I look forward to sharing our next phase with you.