Moments of Faith and Growth

It was the final moments of Yom Kippur, the most powerful time of the year. Before we chanted Shema Yisroel, I addressed the congregation.

“Shema is an expression of our ultimate faith in Hashem. It’s the verse a Jew recites before giving up his life for Hashem. But being a Jew is about living with the Torah. So now, as we recite the Shema together, think about a way you could enhance your life as a Jew. Think of a mitzvah you can do that will strengthen your bond with Hashem!”

After we completed Neilah and broke our fasts, Erik*, one of our community members, told me he’d committed to celebrating Shabbos each week by lighting candles, making kiddush, and enjoying a seuda.