Letter from the Rabbi:

To the Members of Sha’arei Shalom,

On Sunday, June 1, 2008 I will be among the very first class of students to be ordained as a rabbi by the new program at Hebrew College in Newton. In my classes, over five years, I have learned a great deal about Judaism’s sacred texts, history, theology, and even “practical rabbinic’s.” But my experiences with you have been the most significant and meaningful part of my becoming a rabbi.  That is why writing this letter is not easy. 
At the Annual Meeting I announced that I am seeking a full time position with benefits.  Some of you were not there and the Board and I want to be sure that everyone receives the same message.  When I was hired I was hopeful to be able to stay in this position. I thought that I might find another job and do both until Sha’arei Shalom was able to sustain a full time rabbi.  However, another rabbinic position that doesn’t require Sundays and High Holidays is hard to find.   This is purely a financial decision.  Please know that I have every intention of honoring my contract and commitments through the summer.  I have informed you now because this is the time of year when congregations are beginning their searches for clergy. If I can offer any support in the search process, I am happy to do so.  My hope is that Sha’arei Shalom will stay connected with Hebrew College, as there are incredibly gifted and experienced students and wonderful resources.
I believe that Sha’arei Shalom is the kind of community that people are seeking. Research on congregations that are “working” and on what baby boomers are seeking in spiritual communities show that people want an atmosphere that is comfortable, friendly, and informal.  One in which there is collaborative leadership between congregants and clergy and educators.  One that offers opportunities for continued learning is participatory, vibrant, and inclusive of individuals and families no matter their age or backgrounds.  Sound familiar?  
At the Annual Meeting I spoke of the significant achievements, blessings, and challenges of the past year.  I will mention a few here.  First of all, due to the dedication of the School Committee, Bill Ames, and our wonderful teachers, the school is having the best year ever.  We have also introduced family and adult education as a way of engaging adults in learning and as another way to build community. Our last Friday service was attended by about fifty people and over the past year and a half singing and participation has definitely increased. When the sixth graders co-led in December people even danced! We now have High Holiday children’s services, and occasional Sunday morning Torah services (when it coincides with the New Hebrew month, or Rosh Chodesh), and lively Simchat Torah, Purim, Tu B’shvat and Hanukkah celebrations with all members of the community.
We have celebrated together and mourned together as a community.  Members have lost parents.  Babies have been born – or will be soon.  You have supported each other in times of illness or loss and in times of celebration.  I have been privileged to study with and officiate at the B’nai Mitzvah this past year of Evan Chin, Jacob and Halley Ames, Mitchell Klein, Brianne Maher. Each one has been a powerful experience in the lives of the entire family. In the spring we will celebrate with Scott Robbins, Richard Cohen, Elysa Goldstein, and John Vos.  Aimee and Julia Silverman will celebrate in Israel in August.  Several of the eighth graders have continued their Jewish education at Prozdor – Hebrew College’s community Hebrew high school with a thousand teenagers – which I hope will continue to be a resource for Sha’arei Shalom families.
I continue to be impressed with the Board’s commitment to building this community and a special thank you to Mindy Murray, Dan Goldstein, Lynne Rosenblum-Vos, and Elissa Naiman for your service during your terms. Welcome to Ari Kaufman, Margot Podtburg and Sharon Prybyla.  Thank you to Jon, Robin, Lisa, and Cindy, and Toni for your continuing work.  Thank you to Jacob for creating the successful Shabbat circles – a beautiful example of what people are seeking in congregations.  Thank you to all members of the School, Ritual, and Membership committees for everything, and to the newly formed group of leaders of the Development Campaign.    All congregations struggle with having enough volunteers – and it is harder for small congregations.  I encourage you to get involved if you are not currently serving on a committee, and to contribute to the continued growth and vibrancy of this community. 
In closing – I want to come back to what I started with at the beginning of my report.  I feel blessed to be your rabbi.  On Sunday, June 1 is my ordination – and you are all invited.  At some point you will receive more of an official invitation so we can get a sense of how many people will attend. We will also be celebrating at the monthly service on Friday, June 7, when I lead for the first time as an “official” rabbi. Because you have been such a part of my becoming a rabbi – it is only right that you are part of these celebrations.
May we all go from strength to strength as we continue into this new year of 2008!

Allison Adler