A Note from Rabbi Raina Siroty
I had always wanted to be a rabbi of a small congregation. I am honored to be starting my 4
th
year as the rabbi at Congregation Gemiluth Chassodim. There is much about life in a small congregation that is so rewarding. I love that I know everyone – not just their names, but their stories too. I love that it’s easy to notice – and therefore reach out – when someone seems to be missing. I love being part of a community with a long history and enjoy interacting with congregants in all different phases of life. I love our children. I miss y’all so much. I can’t wait until life returns to normal, or even to a new normal.
It’s a different experience as a rabbi in a community with a very small staff. I laugh when I talk to colleagues and explain a do-it-yourself ethic. When COVID was imminent and my associates had IT teams in place to set up audio visual equipment, I was voraciously reviewing Zoom tutorials. During our first on-line service, I spent a good deal of time setting things up, making sure I can be seen and heard. Behind the scenes, my set up was less than ideal. I used my computer as the camera and my Mom’s computer for sound and a microphone. I held back giggles (sometimes unsuccessfully) because I didn’t know to mute the congregation and I overheard congregants answering phone calls, reprimanding their children or dogs and so on. During the weeks to follow, our online services have been fine-tuned and I am happy to say they are now be a permanent part of our worship opportunities so if you are unable to come to the sanctuary, or on vacation, you can tune in and still be "home".
This weekend is 4
th
of July. No fireworks or parades, no large celebrations. My little family will be spending the holiday weekend alone celebrating Gabriel’s 4
th
birthday in our backyard 12" round by 3" deep plastic oasis. We will grill hot dogs and chicken, watch movies with popcorn, read books, sing and play music, make pizza, open a watermelon and have birthday cake. We will celebrate "little" and make precious memories.
I hope you celebrate small too. May God bless you and keep you safe. Wear your masks and social distance. I'll see y'all at Shabbat.
I am here for you by phone 310 800-4243, text and email. Feel free to call me.
L’Shalom,
Rabbi Raina
