President's Column

What makes this art memorable is how it operates: “When a child is born in Aarhus University Hospital, the parents can press a button at the hospital, which sends a signal that releases the arm that rings The Gong at Dokk1,” the Library’s website explains. “The Gong is engraved with a sun motif and an infinity symbol illustrating new life. The bell’s ring calls on everyone nearby to share a momentary experience of community and to be aware of a collective responsibility for its newest citizens.
 
Fortunately, Beth Am doesn’t need a giant bell for us to be reminded that we are a community that spans across generations. We have our practice of Judaism to compellingly call us to gather week in and week out, both in person and virtually, to celebrate, learn, worship and console. I experience feelings of both hope and responsibility each time I hear of a young family joining Beth Am or when a new participant signs up for The Orchard, a young adult community within Beth Am.
 
Sustaining this sacred community is not a passive endeavor. As it is written in Deuteronomy Rabbah, “A community is too heavy for anyone to carry alone.” Thankfully, through annual membership and additional generous gifts, our congregants provide the funds needed for our organization. Beyond funding, the Beth Am community thrives because of the strong partnership of members working together with clergy and staff, who inspire us to deepen our Jewish practice and to seek more meaning in our lives. I am particularly grateful to the many members who contribute their time and skills to a wide range of tasks, from leading groups planning new initiatives to offering tech support or a ride to evening services for an elderly member.
 
As we enter this third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, I am reminded of the challenges we’ve faced together, and I pray that the time is near for us to be able to gather again joyfully and without a lingering fear for the health and safety of our community.

L'shalom,

president@betham.org