The Gates Have Closed but the Doors are Open
10/28/2024 09:30:23 AM
As of Simchat Torah, the Gates of Repentance have officially closed, but the doors of the synagogue remain wide open.
Our Torah scroll has been rolled back to the beginning. All of our scrolls are now dressed in their blue coverings. The rabbis have hung up their white robes.
Now the work truly begins.
All of our collective and individual t’shuvah-work that we did from Selichot through Simchat Torah is behind us, and now we put our words and our prayers into action.
Now is the time we say “yes.”
“Yes, I’ll join you for that service.”
“Yes, I’ll help feed the hungry.”
“Yes, I’ll build bridges between TE and another faith community.”
“Yes, I’ll commit to learning more about Israel.”
“Yes, I’ll meet up for that social event with my TE friends.”
You may have to say “no” to some things as well.
“No, I already committed to help out at my synagogue that day, maybe next time.”
“No, I’m not available, it’s actually a Jewish holiday on that date.”
The gates are closed, but Temple Emanu-El’s doors are open (well, after we buzz you in).
We can’t wait to welcome you.
Shavua Tov,
Rabbi Rachael