Elul is the Hebrew month preceding the High Holy Days. There are many traditions observed during this month including making time for personal self reflection, study and awareness of our actions towards others. This year's Elevating Elul series includes the reflections and voices of our congregants to help us come together as a community to prepare for the new year.
Our next Elevating Elul contribution is a reflection piece written by BA member, Sandy Weitkamp. For two decades, Sandy has helped facilitate our High Holy Day youth programs (prior to Covid). Please read below to find out how Sandy came to teach at BA and how teaching others has helped her through the High Holy Days.
Why I Teach By: Sandy Weitkamp
When my daughters Tanya and Kim were younger we went to Memphis, TN for the High Holy Days. My family belonged to an Orthodox Synagogue that had no children's programming, only childcare. My children were in elementary school and had no choice but to stay in childcare during the Days of Awe rather than being offered age appropriate High Holy Day programming.
When I was asked to teach for the High Holy Days, I decided this was very important because young children NEED appropriate programs, especially during these Holy Days.
I've been teaching for 20 years - hoping that I've made at least a small impact to the next generation of children.
