President’s Message
As we move through the month of May, we find ourselves in the midst of counting the Omer—the 49 days between the second night of Passover and the eve of Shavuot. While it may seem like a simple ritual of marking time, our tradition teaches that the Omer represents something far more profound.
The Israelites, having been freed from slavery in Egypt, did not arrive at Sinai fully prepared to receive the Torah. Freedom alone was not enough. They needed time—time to grow, to refine themselves, and to become a people ready to accept responsibility and covenant. The counting of the Omer reflects this journey: from physical liberation to spiritual purpose.
In many ways, this moment in the life of Sinai Synagogue mirrors that same journey. As we continue our search for a successor to Rabbi Friedland, we find ourselves in a period that calls for patience, reflection, and thoughtful action. Like the Israelites, we are not simply moving from one point to another; we are preparing ourselves for what comes next.
Your rabbi search committee is actively engaged in that work. We are carefully considering the range of options before us, including the possibility of a permanent hire, an interim rabbi, visiting rabbis on a rotating basis, and even expanded opportunities for lay-led services.
At the same time, we remain committed to maintaining the continuity and quality of our communal life. I am pleased to share that our High Holiday services will once again be enriched by the presence of Hazzan Eyal Sherf. For several years, Eyal has graced our bimah during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur with his powerful and emotive voice, elevating our liturgy and helping to create a meaningful and inspiring worship experience.
Even as we navigate this period of transition, we continue to celebrate the milestones and journeys that define our community. I am delighted to welcome Abra Kaplan as the newest member of Sinai Synagogue. Abra’s Jewish journey culminated in April with her appearance before the Beit Din and immersion in the mikvah in Chicago. Having studied with Rabbi Friedland and now continuing her preparation with Steve Gerber, she will celebrate her bat mitzvah on June 13. I hope you will join us in recognizing and celebrating this meaningful achievement.
Our commitment to education and engagement also continues in meaningful ways. Appreciation day for all our FEAST and Hebrew School teachers is Saturday, May 9. On Sunday, May 17, our fifth and sixth grade FEAST students will travel to the Chicago Holocaust Museum as part of their studies. Accompanied by their parents, they will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of this critical chapter in our history, followed by time together in the city before returning home. Experiences like these are essential in shaping the next generation’s connection to Jewish learning and identity.
That same evening, we will hold our Annual Meeting at 8:00 p.m. via Zoom. The timing reflects our desire to accommodate those families returning from Chicago. This will be a short meeting, during which I will deliver a brief State of the Synagogue address, and we’ll vote for two new members to our Board of Directors. Please watch for additional details and the Zoom link as the date approaches.
There is also still time to register for Rabbi Friedland’s retirement celebration. This promises to be a truly special evening as we honor his 30 years of dedicated service to Sinai Synagogue and the broader South Bend community. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the evening gets underway at 5:45 p.m. with heavy hors d’oeuvres and drinks in the social hall. We will then move into the sanctuary for a program reflecting on Rabbi Friedland’s remarkable career, followed by coffee and dessert. It will be a fitting tribute to a leader who has shaped our congregation in many lasting ways.
And as we continue counting the Omer, we look ahead to Shavuot. We will gather on Thursday evening, May 21, to observe erev Shavuot in our traditional manner, beginning with a dairy dinner at 6:00 p.m. The evening will include Rabbi and Lizzie’s presentations of their personal “Journeys to Sinai” as they make their Exodus, along with opportunities for learning and reflection.
The counting of the Omer reminds us that growth happens gradually, with intention and care. Each day matters. Each step forward prepares us for what lies ahead. As a congregation, we are doing that work together—strengthening our foundation, honoring our past, and preparing for our future.
See you at shul,
Will Turbow