A Note From The Cantor

August 6—back to school in Cobb and other counties—our reminder that summer is winding down. Yet less than one week later,11the beginning of the Hebrew month of Elul. According to Jewish tradition, it is during the month of Elul that we should reflect on our actions in the past year, and prepare for the year to come. Certain melodies from the High Holy Days start to creep into our Shabbat worship services.

As the New Year of 5771 approaches, this may be a good time to think about making a commitment to engage more fully in Temple life, and to Jewish life.  Working on one of our many committees is a good way to do this. We have quite a few organizations, common interest groups and committees always looking for new members. Call the office, or have a talk with an active Kehillah member about this, and let us know where your interests lie. Let us help you get connected with the inner workings of your Kehillah family.

Another way is to educate ourselves on the coming holidays and observances, such as Simchat Torah, Chanukah, Purim, Passover…this is all in addition to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, which of course will be here on September 9th and September 18th, respectively.  Let us make a commitment to learn about all these special days, and to
understand what their inclusion in the calendar means to us as Jews.


And speaking of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur:  Want a guaranteed front row seat for the High Holy Days? Join our adult choir. No knowledge of Hebrew or ability to read music is required, and there are no auditions. All you need to do is commit to attending our rehearsals and services. This year, our High Holy Days choir rehearsals will begin August 3 at 7:30 in our sanctuary. Rehearsals will follow at the same time every Tuesday. Beginning August 24, we will begin twice-weekly rehearsals on Tuesdays and Thursdays until Yom Kippur.

Last year’s Junior Choir once again will be leading the music for our Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur Children’s services. I will notify members by email with rehearsal schedules and information. For all students, 2nd grade and older, who would like to be a part of this year’s Junior Choir, registration will be Sunday, September 26, following Religious School. Look for information to follow in our weekly emails.

Hope everyone has had a fantastic summer! I look forward to our preparing to celebrate the Jewish New Year together!

B’Shirah,