This is my penultimate column. In other words, this is my second-to-last column as rabbi of Adath Emanu-El. The 18-month period of our official relationship is almost over. It is hard to believe. Hard to believe in two, seemingly opposite ways. It is hard to believe because the time has gone so fast. But it is also hard to believe because we have spent so much time together.
I remember the beginning. I walked into a congregation that was embroiled in controversy. It seemed that everyone could be identified as being on "this side" or "that side." Adath was a congregation divided.
But I also could see that on a deeper level, there were values and hopes and dreams that united the membership of Adath into one.
I do not want to dismiss the divisions. In some ways, they have lessened and even disappeared. But in other ways, they continue. Trust takes a long time to rebuild and it can only happen by example, by evidence and by true change. I could not be more pleased with the work, the soul-searching, and the honest dialogue that has occurred. But more must be done.
I am pleased and proud of the lay leadership of this congregation that is now more diversified and representative than ever. And yet I hope that the upcoming board will continue the work by fully examining the Constitution and By-Laws of the congregation to assure, in writing, that diversity is a value.
The staff-team that is working for Adath today is extraordinary. We have monthly staff meetings and at each meeting I am witness to a group of people that respects each other, that enjoys working together, and that likes to help each other, all in the name of enriching Adath Emanu-El. I will miss every single one of them terribly, but I take pleasure in knowing that Rabbi David will walk into a strong team that wants to help him be a successful rabbi. I know too that Rabbi David is the kind of rabbi that wants to work in partnership with the staff.
What will I miss the most? As I reflect upon this question, in my mind's eye I go into the sanctuary. It is the sanctuary that I will miss the most because it is there that we have laughed, cried, prayed, sung and gathered together as a community, week in and week out. I love the spiritual depth of Adath Emanu-El. You are a community that knows how to pray and that values prayer. That is the most special gift of all and the one I will miss most of all.
On a personal level, both Nancy and I have come to cherish the relationships that have only grown and grown over the course of our time together. We will miss you, and we thank you for opening your hearts to us.
Our "official" relationship will be ending soon. My last day is June 24th. But our "unofficial'" relationship will continue. We are friends and companions and partners in a very small world known as the Jewish community. We know our paths will continue to cross.
Nancy and I are looking forward to our new adventure as I become the Rabbi of Temple Beth Tikvah in Madison, CT. We hope you will come visit us there.
Let's continue to make the most of our time together even as we look forward to new chapters in our respective lives.
