A View from the Bima

Karen and I are thrilled to be joining you in Huntsville for this year beginning July 1st .

Kadima is the Hebrew word meaning forward. As a congregation, we cannot stand still or just remember our history. We must continually move forward without abandoning our past.

In every generation since its inception, Reform Judaism has shifted with modern innovation. Just consider the most recent change - that of hybrid worship. It is easy to sit in the family room or near the computer screen and attend services on-line. During the Covid Pandemic, there was little choice but to worship at our computer screens. However, Jewish worship has always been about community. We are at our best when we stand together and sing together; when we share each other’s fears and sadness’s as well as joys and dreams.

Watching services at Temple B’nai Sholom while in Atlanta and listening to many of you share your opinions during my interview weekend; I am pleased to let you know the TBS choir will be enriching our worship once again beginning with my initial service on Friday evening, July 8 which will be both in person and virtual.

We will begin a couple of new “traditions” as well. At the beginning of the service, a table with candles will be placed near the front of the sanctuary. You will have the opportunity to light Shabbat candles before we recite and sing the candle blessing. Many of us don’t like leaving candles lit at home when coming to shul. Now you will be able to light candles together with your temple family and light up the Sabbath service and enjoy their glow during our worship.

One other new “tradition” I will introduce right away will be an opportunity to give thanks for blessings in our lives. We are often bombarded with the troubles of the world. Each week we sing the Mi Shebeirach asking for healing for those in need. Now we will also have the opportunity to recognize birthdays, anniversaries, new jobs, new homes, return to health and many other blessings as we recite the Shehehcheyanu.

I look forward to your feedback and to your participation as we move forward at Temple B’nai Sholom.

Kadima! Rabbi Scott E. Colbert, D.Min.