Dear JCOGS family,
When the 12 spies were sent to look at the Land of Israel and report back to the Israelites what they saw, 10 of them came back with a troubling, fearful report that they would never be able to conquer the land. But two of the spies, Caleb and Joshua, stood against the others to proclaim that “the land… is an exceedingly good land.” Rabbi Tobie Weisman, executive director of Jewish Communities of Vermont, wrote: “It takes so much courage and stamina to stand up against negativity and fear and keep a positive outlook. This is our Jewish heritage and what has kept the Jewish people thriving and growing despite so much negativity and hostility surrounding us throughout history.”
Amidst all that swirls around us in the world, there is so much to be grateful for. So much to celebrate! This weekend alone, we celebrate Shabbat tonight, two Mitzvah ceremonies tomorrow, and a wedding under the chuppah on Sunday.
And we top it off with an Open Mic this Sunday at 6pm, as we kick off a NEW
Summer Series: Talent in the Tent, showing off the talent from within members of our JCOGS community. Talented singer/musician Brian Leven will serenade and MC. Come show off your inner schtick and step up to the mic for a fun evening. Or just sit back and enjoy an evening of entertainment, local beer, and light snacks provided at “The Nosh”.
And here’s something else to celebrate,
this article called “Magnetic North” in Tablet Magazine that features JCOGS, and how Jewish communities in northern New England’s small towns find ways to attract more participants from diverse backgrounds.
There’s an expression in Yiddish “
oif simchas” that we say when we meet someone at a sad occasion. It means “may we meet only on happy occasions.”
As Rabbi Tobie said: “May we follow the example of Caleb and Joshua and bring light and a positive outlook to all those around us, including ourselves.” And may we only meet
oif simchas!
Tihiyu bri’im, be well. Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi David
