|
|
The Shabbat that begins tonight is known as Shabbat Shuvah, the Sabbath of Repentance. According to our tradition, Shabbat Shuvah is one of the two most important Shabbats of the year; the other especially important Shabbat is known as Shabbat HaGadol, the Great Shabbat.
Shabbat HaGadol is the Shabbat that falls just before Passover. These two shabbats are considered to be so important that our tradition instructs Rabbis to prepare and deliver sermons on these shabbats. In fact, until a few centuries ago, Shabbat Shuvah and Shabbat HaGadol were the only times during the year that Rabbis delivered sermons. (Oh how nice that was for Rabbis!)
Ironically, these two shabbats are usually the most poorly attended of the year. On Shabbat HaGadol, people are busy preparing for Passover. On Shabbat Shuvah, people feel that they are putting in enough "Temple Time" attending Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services.
I am sending this message to urge you to join us at Shabbat Shuvah Services tonight, which will begin at 7:30 PM. I have prepared a full sermon that will deal with the future of the Jewish community, subject matter that is certainly appropriate for the High Holy Day season. The spoken and sung liturgy for Shabbat Shuvah is also very important, as it deals with High Holy Day themes. Allison, Tim, and I have been working closely to provide a very meaningful experience for those who worship with us tonight. Please be with us!
Gamar Chatimah Tovah, May you be inscribed for a good year in the Book of Life.
-Gary
|
|
|
