Rabbi's Blog

But, as we move into Shabbat, and then Sukkot next week, we can not leave behind these past days. Our minds are heavy with our thoughts of those reeling and mourning from the attack on the synagogue in Manchester, England and, our focus is consumed by the government shutdown which is now in its 3rd day, and how it is affecting the lives of so many.

It is hard to move forward and think about celebrating the joyous holiday of sukkot when there is so much pain and worry that we still hold onto.

As I mentioned in my sermon on Yom Kippur, I find comfort and hope in the ways we support each other during these times.

For those affected by the government shutdown, in whatever way you are, please reach out if I or the congregation can be of support. Due to the generosity of other congregants, the Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund has money that can be used to support people who need with food, utilities, rent, or other needs. Please contact me and we can get you the help you need. If what you need is someone to talk to, please call or email as well and we can set up a time to meet. Conversations and financial support are all confidential.

There are also other resources in the community where individuals can find support. A couple of them are:

J-CARING support line:  Is ready and able to meet this moment for everyone, especially those directly impacted by the shutdown. Call 703-J-CARING (703-522-7464) for a variety of services: mental health support, financial assistance, career services, etc.

Hebrew Free Loan Society of Greater Washington: Offers an Unemployment and Furlough Loan Program providing interest-free loans up to $18,000, disbursed in monthly installments of up to $3,000 for a maximum of six months.

In addition, if anyone is looking to process their thoughts and feelings around the attack in England, and the bigger issues of life as a Jew today, Antisemitism, Israel and the war in Gaza, also reach out and we will find a time to talk.

And, while I mentioned above about how it is hard to look forward when being pulled backwards, move forward we must. Another place to find hope is in the company of others. After just a one day “break” following Yom Kippur, I am looking forward to being back with everyone for Shabbat tonight and tomorrow and then for Sukkot services on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Come spend some time with us, your TI community. Pray, eat, talk in whatever combination of those things will be supportive for you.

Here is the schedule of the upcoming Sukkot festivities.
- Tuesday 10/7: Sukkot Day 1 - with Sukkah Walk
- Wednesday 10/8: Sukkot Day 2
- Thursday 10/9: Politics & Beer in the Sukkah
- Friday 10/10: Rising Song Service & Shabbat Dinner in the Sukkah
- Monday 10/13: Hoshanah Rabbah
- Tuesday 10/14: Shmini Atzeret & Yizkor
- Tuesday 10/14 @ 7pm: Erev Simchat Torah
- Wednesday 10/15: Simchat Torah
 
Look for more details on the TI website, in the Menorah and in yout TIdbits email.

I look forward to celebrating & being together!
 
Shabbat Shalom & Chag Sameyach,
Rabbi Werbow