Dear Shaare Torah Family,
As we approach the High Holidays and prepare to welcome the year 5786, I find myself filled with gratitude, anticipation, and deep humility. This is my very first Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur with you, and it’s hard to put into words how meaningful it is to begin this sacred season—and this sacred journey—with this incredible community.
Each year, the High Holidays offer us the gift of reflection. We take stock of who we are, of what has shaped us, of how we have grown, and of who we still hope to become. We turn inward in order to reach outward—toward others, toward our best selves, and toward the Divine. That’s why our theme for this coming year is “Rooted and Reaching.”
This theme expresses a spiritual balance I hope we can carry with us in the days and months ahead. We are deeply rooted—in our Jewish tradition, in the generations who came before us, in the values that define this community, and in the rhythms of the Jewish calendar. These roots give us strength. They anchor us. They nourish us.
And we are also reaching—toward new learning, deeper relationships, joyful celebration, and meaningful change. To be Jewish is to be always growing, always questioning, always seeking. We reach for what could be, not just what has been.
In my first few months here, I’ve already seen how beautifully this community lives that balance. You are rooted in care, in kavod (honor), in chesed (kindness), and in Torah. And you are reaching—toward each other, toward new ideas, and toward building a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking congregation.
As we enter the new year together, I hope this theme—“Rooted and Reaching”—will guide us not only through the holidays, but throughout 5786. It will shape the way we pray, the way we learn, the way we celebrate, and the way we show up for one another.
I look forward to hearing your stories, learning with you, dreaming alongside you, and building a spiritual home together that honors our roots and isn’t afraid to reach. May this season bring you and your loved ones reflection, connection, sweetness, and peace.
From my family to yours, Shanah Tovah U’Metukah—a good and sweet new year. May you be written and sealed in the Book of Life.
With blessings and excitement,
Rabbi David B. Helfand
If you need any accommodations to fully participate in Shaare Torah programs and services, please contact Devin Egber or (301) 869-9842 x114 prior to an event/services, or see a staff member, board member or greeter during an event. We will make every effort to provide the accommodations you require.
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