Rabbi Karen's November 2024 Message

So why is Cheshvan referred to as Mar-Cheshvan? Is there something sad or extremely difficult about this Hebrew month? Not necessarily. It is known as Mar-Cheshvan solely because it is the only month on the Jewish calendar in which no Jewish holiday falls. I don’t think that’s a bad thing. Sometimes we each really need downtime; to regroup, refocus, catch up on sleep or reading, redirect ourselves back to an unfinished project or a favorite hobby. Truly, this time can be a blessing for us.

​

An additional bonus of the month of Cheshvan is that it provides the gift of time for self-reflection. The lack of holidays offers plenty of time for us to make changes in ourselves. During the High Holidays, we spoke of our resolutions and what we’d like to change in our words, actions, behaviors and relationships. This month provides time to own those resolutions, to focus on taking steps, even baby steps are fine, and work toward those self-identified big picture goals. In a world where we often feel rushed and pressed for time, I especially welcome time to focus on resetting my internal GPS system and work on bettering myself.

​

Here at Temple Beth Shalom and in congregations across the country, you will see that Cheshvan is also the time of year when programming ramps up. When you look at the TBS calendar (please see the website and your weekly emails for complete listings!) you will see that we don’t need a Jewish holiday to bring us together and to keep this holy community as connected as ever! 

​

Some of our highlights…

​

• Sunday, November 3: Blessing of the Pets, 10am-1pm. 

The day before this, in Torah, we read the story of Noah and the Ark. What a perfect follow up it is to host our Pet Fair and annual non-sectarian Blessing of the Pets! I am looking forward to offering blessings and sharing this day with you.  

​

• Friday, November 8: Family Shabbat & Dinner, 6pm-8pm. 

I love spending Shabbat with you! Please plan to join in for this monthly Family Shabbat and Dinner. Remember to RSVP to the office by the previous Wednesday and be sure to indicate what dairy or parve side dish you will be bringing. 

​

• Sunday, November 10: Sharing our Jewish Journeys, an adult education program with Rabbi Karen Tashman, 10am - 11:30am.

This interactive session follows Shabbat Lech-Lecha in which Abraham’s and our collective Jewish Journey begins. We each have our own journey and our own story to share. I am excited about the opportunity to make these personal connections with you.

​

• Sunday, November 10: TBS Congregational Meeting, 1pm

I am looking forward to greeting you at the TBS November Congregational Meeting!  As members, it is important that you participate in the decisions being made about your temple.

​

• Friday, November 15: Veterans Shabbat & Simcha Shabbat, 7pm

Please join me at this very special Shabbat that will include honoring all of our Veterans as well as celebrating the November birthdays and anniversaries. This promises to be a beautiful and meaningful evening.

​

• Sunday, November 17: Community Dedication of Mobile ICU Unit (at the Jewish Federation office in Ormond Beach) , 1pm

Joining together under the umbrella of the Jewish Federation of Volusia & Flagler Counties, we are making this significant gift to the Magen David Adom in Israel. May they use it in their holy work in saving lives. I hope to see you there.

​

One last thing to mention, it is important that you know that I will be traveling to Israel in the coming month. In my absence, our volunteer service leaders extraordinaire, Carol Maller and Susan Bird, will be leading Shabbat Services.

​

Wishing you a month of Cheshvan that is fulfilling and energizing.

 

L'hitraot,

​

Rabbi Karen Tashman

rabbikarentashman@gmail.com