The Days of Awe are a time of internal reflection, when we look deep inside ourselves and commit to doing things differently in the coming year. They are also a time when we may renew our commitment to doing our part to repair the world, fulfilling the Jewish concept of tikkun olam. An easy way to do this is through the Social Action Committee, which I chair. Just look at the weekly email and see what we are doing next. For those who may not read the weekly email, I urge you to resolve in the coming year to do so, or to talk to me about other ways you might prefer to learn about our events.

We have some wonderful activities coming up in the next few months: In December, a book sale to benefit low-income children and joining members of Dar Al-Hijrah mosque for their monthly interfaith Solidarity Cup of Tea (which they will hold on a Sunday,  especially for us). In January, our blow-out participation in Arlington’s Martin Luther King Day of Service.

I particularly want to draw your attention to our November event, “The Jewish Response to the Refugee and Immigrant Crisis,” from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, November 3rd. This forum will feature representatives of several non-profit groups that work on immigrant and refugee issues. Representatives will tell us what is happening now and describe various ways we can take action—including volunteering with groups that help refugees and immigrants, donating household goods, providing pro bono legal assistance, and political advocacy. Whatever your comfort level, you can get involved to help make this terrible situation a little better. We are also inviting area synagogues to join us, so we expect a pretty big turnout.  

And yes, look for an announcement in the weekly email!

Thank you and Shanah Tovah.

The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Synagogue or Board of Directors.