Shabbat Shalom!
Being a member of a community presents an opportunity and, even more, includes a responsibility, to contribute something to strengthen the well-being of the group. Over the last few days, I attended the first convention of newCAJE, a "resurrection" of the Conference on Alternatives in Jewish Education (CAJE) that was required to close its doors two years ago. The convention was held at Gann Academy (a Jewish high school) in Waltham, with housing provided through Bentley University next door to the school. The "old" CAJE always brought together educators/school principals, rabbis, cantors, religious school teachers, artists, musicians, storytellers, college professors, and lay leaders for several days of learning, camaraderie, music, and community building. It was always a highlight of my year because everyone was equal in having a chance to offer something unique to the community. While I never led a workshop on my own at CAJE, I did sing in the CAJE Chorale led for many years by Debbie Friedman. Once I released my first CD in 2003, I performed a set of original music as a way of sharing my spirit and beliefs. It was sad to see CAJE end its run of over 30 years in late 2008.
NewCAJE was coordinated totally by volunteers, many of whom had been a part of the CAJE experience. In order to make a more significant contribution to this "resurrection" of a very valuable conference, I adapted my Crane Lake Camp 2009 mini-course, "God on my iPod," for a session that I led on my own. 15 people attended my workshop on Tuesday, and we had a lively and enriching discussion about God and about secular/popular songs that touched upon various beliefs that relate, in some way, to our own. Between that workshop, singing two songs during the Monday evening program, and simply being there, my giving was returned several times over with the blessing of being a part of this community of colleagues and friends.
In the Torah reading for this week, the Israelites were told to appear at the place where God would cause the divine name to dwell (eventually, the Temple in Jerusalem) three times a year - on the major festivals, including this special instruction: "They shall not appear before the Eternal empty-handed, but each with his/her own gift." Everyone, no matter what their station among their people, had something to offer that would enhance the well-being of the people. Specifically, this passage was talking about animal or grain sacrifices. Yet, the word for sacrifice, KORBAN, comes from the root meaning "to draw near." Bringing gifts brought the people closer not only to God, but also to each other, as, together, they presented the best of what they had to share.
We have this same opportunity to offer our wisdom, talents, enthusiasm, energy, and all kinds of support to a community. Giving brings us close to the values that we prize, but, more importantly, it can bring us closer to each other as we engage in our giving together.
As the High Holy Days approach in a few weeks, may we all think about the ways in which we can give with a positive attitude and with the confidence that what we give will truly make a difference!
L'shalom,
Rabbi Larry
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