An aspect of being a Rabbi I enjoy the most is getting to visit with individuals and learn each one’s story, while building relationships. Although this has been difficult during the pandemic, I still have enjoyed these moments virtually or at a “social distance.”
It is fascinating to learn from each of the episodes in the lives of congregants, in addition to plentiful anecdotes about the Shul. Listening to some of the incredible life stories our members possess, I immediately began to think about this week's Torah portion. Our Parsha this week is Devarim, also beginning the final book of the Torah with the same name.
Unlike the first four books, Devarim, or Deuteronomy, does not really present anything new, but rather it is a review or summary of the lessons and narratives we were supposed to glean from the first four. Moses takes time to regale this new generation of Israelites about what the previous generations had to endure, including both their indiscretions and triumphs.
In that same vein, we can learn from our elders when hearing their reminiscences. There are always valuable lessons to learn from each other, if we take time to listen.
Wednesday night and Thursday we commemorate Tishah B'Av, a major Fast Day remembrance of the Destruction of the First and Second Temples, as well as multiple other calamities that have befallen our people. We take time to fast and pray so that we again recall our past to learn and grow. I hope you will join us for services and special Tishah B’Av teachings at 7:30 pm Wednesday night, 7:00 am on Thursday morning, and 7:30 pm on Thursday night via Zoom, Facebook Live, and our BA Livestream.
Judaism provides a reminder to learn from our past, enabling us to make the most of our present and future and become better because of it. My hope and prayer for all of us is that we each take time to learn from one another so that we can progress on our own journeys with our own spiritualties, each and every day.
Our B’nai Amoona’s Minyan Program consists of our amazing, dedicated Minyannaires who assure warm and welcoming ongoing daily Minyanim, morning and evening. These services support those in our community who have lost loved ones and may be feeling lonely and isolated. Our BA virtual Minyanim are a constant source of strength and comfort for those who wish to recite the Kaddish. Moreover, our Minyanim are a wonderful opportunity for spiritual uplift, social connection, community building, and the ability to fulfill one's daily Chiyuv, duty, to thank God for all that we have. This combination of Kehillah and Kibbitzing allows up to remain spiritually connected despite being socially distant. All are warmly welcomed! Please join us!
Virtual Morning Minyan
Sunday Morning Minyan will take place virtually at 9:00 am Monday - Friday Morning Minyan will take place virtually at 7:00 am via Zoom, Livestream and FB Live
Virtual Evening Minyan
Sunday - Thursday Evening Minyan will take place virtually at 6:15 pm via Zoom,Livestream and FB Live
Tishah B’Av Services Tishah B'Av Services will be available via Zoom, LivestreamandFB Live.
Wednesday Evening, July 29 at 7:30 pm Minchah, Teaching and Maariv with Rabbi Jeffrey Abraham. Eichah (Book of Lamentations) and Elegies will be led by BA members.
