Every profession or trade has an annual convention. This past week, Reform Rabbis gathered in San Francisco for their CCAR (Central Conference of American Rabbis) convention. Five-hundred rabbis spent four days, together, doing what rabbis do best. We studied with the finest scholars and Jewish teachers, we worshiped in joyful and meaningful services, and we renewed friendships with colleagues.
Jewish scholars came from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, the Reform seminary. They taught about texts and subjects we used to study when we were in school, and still find interesting and captivating. But, we didn’t only study old texts; we also studied ground-breaking science on stem cells and how Judaism defines healing and our ethical responsibilities to seek it. We also learned about technology and how communities are gathering not only in the synagogue, but also on the internet. We’ve come a long way from hiding behind screen names on-line, to joining social networks for legitimate purposes in business, education and religion. We also learned about social changes that are affecting the way we organize ourselves in synagogue and Jewish communal life. Our ability to understand social trends will enable us to grow our communities.
Worshiping with 500 rabbis is different than leading services from the bemah even for hundreds of regular worshipers on Shabbat. They know the words and sing along; they anticipate every step and contribute to the rhythm that becomes a living worship experience. Our CCAR President, Rabbi Ellen Dreyfus, who spoke in our congregation one year ago, enriched us with her message. She acknowledged a future that is fraught with challenges never seen by the past 50 years of American Jewish communities. But, she reminded us that as “change is the only thing that remains constant,” so does the spirit of the Jewish people that thrived on change by preparing for it. We have to acknowledge the past, embrace the present, and move forward with the best in scholarship, leadership and organizational fortitude, most notably, the synagogue.
There is nothing like the warmth and friendship of rabbinic colleagues. My own ordination class of 1990, is celebrating 20 years in the rabbinate. We were a close group of friends when we met in rabbinical school 25 years ago, and we remain as close, today. To be happy for one another and to encourage each other openly, reminds us that we are part of a very special and blessed group of individuals. We work hard and we put others first, but once annually, the CCAR conference welcomes us to be together, mostly uninterrupted, to be nourished and to grow, to worship and to be enriched.
When rabbis come home from convention they bear notes and lessons, insights and studies. But, they also come home renewed and inspired to give their congregations more of what they seek. I, for one, am pleased to be home and even happier to share more about the Reform Judaism we choose every day, and which helps us participate in a modern world filled with wisdom from our past and hope for our future. Despite rumors to the contrary, Reform Judaism is growing and meeting the needs of modern Jews. Our challenges are great, but so is our commitment.
As Shabbat nears, we will read the last verses of the Book of Exodus. We will recite, together, the words that build the bridge between one book of Torah and the next, “Hazak, hazak, v’nitchazeik!” Be strong, be strong and let us strengthen each other. Kein Yehi Ratzon, may it be God’s will.
From my family to yours, Shabbat Shalom.
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