Congregation Beth Israel Weekly News & Updates

Why is this Shabbat different from all other Shabbats? On every other Shabbat, we pray and sing in our striking sanctuary, carefully constructed with precious objects from each congregation to create a sacred space that is home to our whole community. On this Shabbat, we will pray and sing in our lovely library, a more intimate space surrounded by the books of both synagogues. Why so? Because by Shabbat, we will have prepared Beit Shalom for Passover, not only kashering the kitchen, but also setting up for the community Seder across the suite of multi-purpose rooms which include the sanctuary.

Blessings to you all as you likewise prepare your homes for Passover, removing the chametz and creating a holy space for the celebration of our festival of freedom. Please remember at all your Seders to pray for those who are not free, especially the hostages now in captivity for over half a year, who can only yearn for home and freedom as we in turn year for them, and also all those whose lives are battered by war. When we say “Next year in Jerusalem,” may it be a prayer for liberation for all.

May your Passover season be uplifting and empowering,

L’shalom,

Rabbi Linda