Posted on April 4, 2025 by Rabbi David Katz
This week, I have three important messages in one.
First, Confirmation:
A few words…there is no real final grade in Jewish Education; the only real grade you can get is “incomplete.” Yet there is an end to the formal Religious School program at our Temple and those students who successfully complete their studies are to be lauded.
Tonight, Brian Ascher, Delia Erb-Wagner, Harry Fromberg, Benjamin Manrique, Liel Raines Moshe, and Dylan Reynolds will stand on the bimah to reconfirm their faith in God and their loyalty to the Jewish people.
Our Confirmands should be congratulated because they have dedicated themselves to stay the course amidst all the pressures of life. There are so many competing concerns for young people today. There is the incredibly hectic pace of extra curricular activities, with sports, school clubs and family obligations. Our Confirmands and their parents who have supported them are reconfirming the value that attaining wisdom is of vital importance. Let us all take joy in the success of our young people and celebrate them; let us be there tonight to confirm their accomplishment and share in the simcha.
Second, the Day of Service:
Some Jews join a temple for the services it provides, for the familiar Rabbi to officiate at a family funeral or for the Religious school to train their child to become Brit Mitzvah. But at its heart a temple is a place to offer its members the opportunity to serve, not to be served. It is a place to serve God by helping others. This coming Sunday will be our Day of Service.
And here is another turn of thought… is this day an opportunity to do a good deed or is it more a requirement of our tradition? In effect, it is both. In the language of the people, a mitzvah is a good deed; in the language of Torah it is a commandment from God. On Sunday we will help to shelter the homeless, feed the hungry and clothe the naked. We will respond to the call of the Prophets who made social concerns their focus. On Sunday we will perform deeds of kindness and we will respond to God’s commandments. Yes – an opportunity and yes – a responsibility, all done with joy and enthusiasm.
Third, Passover.
If you are preparing a Seder where children will be present, there are ways to make the evening thoughtful and engaging both for them and for the adults. Follow the link and you will find “Fifteen Common Sense Tips For Making a Kid Friendly Seder.” And if you are looking for a Seder to attend, or have some extra seats at your Seder, contact the temple office and we will make a match for you.
See you tonight for the Ceremony of Confirmation and on Sunday for the Day of Service!
I wish you a Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi David Katz
