Rabbi Cooper's Letters

Dear Friends,

As we contemplate the meanings and messages of the upcoming High Holiday season, we reflect on the blessings in our lives.  We take note of our many gifts.  We enjoy good health, a modicum of prosperity and the good fortune to live in a country that cherishes and protects the many forms of freedom that characterize our society.  The High Holidays push us to the realization that we must not take our lives for granted.
 

At this time of year, beyond acknowledging what we have, we think about who we are.  We are who we are, to be sure, because of the influences of our parents, family and teachers, whose direct influences had profound impacts upon us.  But there are others who deserve our recognition as well.  Although we may never have met,  these are the members of our extended families, whose stories and lives became the stuff upon which our families’ identities have been built.
 

Each year, in advance of the High Holidays we publish a congregational Book of Remembrance.  Our Book of Remembrance is both current and historical.  In it are listed the names of those whose lives we recall over Holidays and family gatherings. Listed as well are others who we never knew and yet played an important role in shaping our identities.
 

We did not know those who perished during the Holocaust, relatives from Europe who were unable to escape the ravages of WWII.  We remember them and know that their lives  and deaths have been powerful influences in our lives.
 

Perhaps we recall our great grandfather, who because he did not know English, was quiet and reserved.  Yet he bequeathed to us the model of how one lives a life of ethical acts, drive and the perseverance that became hallmarks of our lives.
 

Perhaps we recall our great aunt, the unequaled cook or baker, whose delicious recipes continue to be scrutinized, carefully followed and served as a highlight of every Holiday meal.
 

Our Book of Remembrance is published as a way of saying, “These are gone but not forgotten.”  Our Book of Remembrance reminds us of that which we have inherited from earlier generations.  It reminds us of those, no longer here, but who remain present in our lives.
 

The most frightening part of dying, I believe, is the prospect of being forgotten.   Each year, we publish this book as our way of saying, “Your good works and the model of a life well lived  has not been forgotten or neglected.  We inscribe your name in this Book of Remembrance so that we can assure that you will not be forgotten.  You remain with us.” A Jewish tradition is to give tzedakah as a way of saying that the person's good works live on.
 

I hope that you will join me in this sacred act of remembering by including the names of your loved ones in this year’s Book of Remembrance. You can do so using the form that was in your membership packet or online here.
 

L’Shana Tova,
 

Rabbi Neil Cooper

p.s. While I am writing to you, I take the opportunity to share that during Shabbat morning this week in the Chapel, I will introduce the topic of “Mamzerut,” the child born of an illicit relationship.  Following the Kiddush Lunch after services, at around 12:40, I will teach some of the Responsa Literature From the Conservative Movement on this controversial and challenging topic. I hope you will join us.