Rabbi's Week in Review Blog

We are taking a bit of a hiatus at Kol Ami. We have so many volunteers who have been giving so much of their time, passion and energy to strengthen and grow this very special and different Jewish community. They need a break — some time to rest, reflect and come back with renewed energy.

The truth is that I could use a bit of a break as well. After our Shabbat picnic this Friday, I will be taking some time away from Kol Ami, beginning June 16. It will not be all rest, as there will be a couple of weddings in the interim and a memorial dedication for a dear friend. I will be giving the sermon as a guest of Congregation Bet Torah in Mt. Kisco, New York, Shabbat morning June 25.

While it is my honor to serve as rabbi of Congregation Kol Ami (and I get up every morning loving my job), I have been told, and I agree, that I need to take a little time away from work to recharge my engines and come back to Kol Ami with renewed energy and spirit. I also think some time away to reflect affords the opportunity for changing my perspective — to maybe see things that I might have missed and see our community in new ways.

I will be overjoyed to come back for Shabbat blessings via Zoom on July 1 (and Zoom Shabbat blessings will take place throughout June, with Saul Epstein leading June 17 and Lara Steinel June 24). I hope everyone will give themselves the opportunity for a little rest and relaxation. There will be new and exciting opportunities in the Kol Ami community going forward.