Looks like we will actually experience spring later on next week. Temperatures are expected to reach into the 70's. To say it's about time, would be redundant!
With the spring of 2011 upon us, it is time to think about the changes that will take place this summer and fall in our religious community.
Three rabbis will be leaving their congregations: Rabbi Larry Milder of Congregation B'nai Shalom, Rabbi Seth Bernstein of Temple Sinai and Rabbi Joel Pitkowsky of Congregation Beth Israel. Different circumstances for all three have precipitated career moves and changes. Their service to their congregations and the community has been much appreciated. They all have brought their unique talents and approaches to their congregations and all will be missed.
Several people have wondered out loud that this seemingly mass exodus of community Rabbis speaks to the further erosion of our Jewish community. This could not be further from the truth. It is indeed coincidental that these three Rabbis will be leaving at the same time. Lest one think that we will not have skilled talented and motivational religious leaders this fall, let me assure you that both B'nai Shalom and Temple Sinai have already hired interim Rabbis for the coming year, and Beth Israel is in the midst of its search.
By the fall of 2012, all three congregations are planning to have on board their full time permanent rabbis to lead their respective congregations. New personalities bring new ideas and approaches.
Yes, it is always somewhat disconcerting to say good bye to those who have been our spiritual leaders. But in Hebrew we say L'hitraot: not good-bye, but see you again!
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