As we prepare for Rosh Hashanah and welcome the Hebrew year 5787, the Jewish Press of Tampa Bay is featuring a special collection of reflections from our synagogue leaders for the two Rosh Hashanah editions. We asked them to respond to the question, “As we welcome 5787, what is your hope for the Jewish community in the coming year?” Below are the responses in this edition:
Vivian Kantrow & Wendy Lenett, co-presidents
Congregation Beth Shalom, Clearwater
As we welcome 5787, our hope is that our Jewish community grows stronger through connection — that we do more outreach to bring more families through our doors, that longtime friendships deepen and that new ones take root. In a world that so often feels divided, we hope Congregation Beth Shalom continues to be a place where people feel truly seen, valued and at home. May this be a year where we show up for one another, celebrate our traditions with joy and carry forward the warmth and resilience that have always defined our community.
Jody Sampson-Nair, Congregation Kol Ami, Tampa
“In the crosshairs of some of the greatest empires throughout history, the tiny Jewish nation outlasted them all, guided by an unwavering commitment to Torah values that continue to illuminate the world. Today we face yet another explosion of Jew hatred. This time, I hope the Jewish community will find strength in our remarkable homeland [of] Israel, inspiration from our many non-Jewish allies who stand with us in solidarity, and the quiet confidence that we will overcome hatred with the power of truth, purpose and most importantly, love for each other. As long as we work hard to stay true to who we are and what we stand for, we will not just prevail, but flourish. Shanah Tovah.”
Charles B. Weissman, Congregation Schaarai Zedek, Tampa
“As we move into the New Year 5787, I’m sure we all have special wishes for our community. I believe my strongest wish for the New Year is that our community, our Country and the World will learn to live together. I hope for an end, or at least a strong reduction in antisemitism. What a wonderful idea!”
Eileen Richman, Congregation B’nai Israel, St. Petersburg
As we welcome 5787 in the Tampa Bay area and around the world, may we do so with hopeful hearts and a renewed sense of purpose. Let this be a year of continued optimism, strengthened community and deeper commitment to caring
for one another. Together, as a Jewish community, may we expand the spirit of volunteerism, support those in need and draw closer through acts of kindness, service and shared responsibility. I wish everyone a year filled with blessing, connection and peace. Shanah Tovah u’metukah.
Marlene Wain, Temple Ahavat Shalom, Palm Harbor
My hope for the Jewish community in the upcoming year is for peace. We should find ourselves able to worship, celebrate simchas and holidays, and not have to worry about our safety, and our community’s safety, while we engage Jewishly.