The Revs. Smiths’ Message for September 27, 2020

Dear Friends,

Last week our Jewish friends and neighbours celebrated Rosh Hashanah, the beginning of their New Year. There were celebrations, somewhat limited due to Covid-19, as they gave thanks for the blessings of a year ended and looked forward in faith to the one that lies ahead. We came across a prayer that Danya Ruttenberg, an American rabbi and author, sent out to her people for Rosh Hoshana that speaks to that moment of remembering and hope. We thought we might borrow it for how it also speaks to the turmoil and uncertainty in which we all find ourselves.

The Feast of Trumpets” (Hasidic Jews performing tashlikh on Rosh Hashanah), painting from 1884 by Polish artist Aleksander Gierymski (1850–1901); from the collection of the National Museum, Warsaw; taken from the Wikimedia Commons.

May this be a year

  • of health
  • of safety
  • of caring
  • of connection
  • of justice
  • of democracy
  • of righteous action
  • of inspiration
  • of creativity
  • of truth
  • of solidarity
  • of generosity
  • of hope
  • of joy
  • of love
  • of honouring the light in one another.

May God’s grace and peace be with us all.

Revs. Bob and Helen Smith