*NOW VIA ZOOM DUE TO WEATHER. REGISTER BELOW!*

This past year has been filled with many challenges: physical, economic, spiritual and emotional. We have been isolated from one another. We face uncertainty in so many areas of our lives. A dangerous virus lurks all around us and we do not know when, if, or in what capacity it may strike. Our economy is suffering. Jobs have been lost. We cannot be present with our loved ones in times of both difficulty and celebration. This has taken a huge toll on all of us. This extends beyond our synagogue into every arena in which we operate. The following questions are designed to help us explore ways in which we can work to strengthen our communal relationships:

1. Have I allowed myself to become less connected to my congregation and community over the past year?
2. During this time of political turmoil, have I found myself less open to others’ ideas and concerns when they conflict with my own?
3. In a “virtual” world, where it is easy to shut out people and ideas that make me uncomfortable, have I allowed myself to “block” people or institutions with whom I otherwise would have engaged in different times?
4. Have I worked to improve my community?
5. Have I been able to understand the issues that affect communities other than my own – for example, people of different ethnic, racial or sexual orientation than me?
6. Have I reached out to support those community institutions that have been especially hard hit by the impact of COVID-19?
7. Understanding that everyone has been impacted by the pandemic, have I reached out to help those who have been less fortunate than me?

These questions are in no way complete. They are designed to help all of us to begin the process of looking deep within ourselves and our souls as we enter into the month of Elul. We want to hear from you. If you have thoughts, questions or comments about anything we encourage you to let us know.