Rabbi Janine's Messages

Dear Community, 

Kehilat HaNahar has been out and about in the community these last few days!

Last Sunday KHN was honored to celebrate Hanukkah outside the Visitor's Center with the New Hope Chamber of Commerce. We were joined by members of the upcoming Bucks County Playhouse production of Fiddler On The Roof who sang a beautiful rendition of Sunrise, Sunset. After the singing I gave a short teaching about Hanukkah, then we sang the blessings and lit the hanukkiah. It was a festive night for all who attended. 

Also, as an important side note, KHN will be hosting a fundraiser and group outing to see the production of Fiddler on The Roof this spring. More information will be coming soon.

On Thursday night I was asked, along with Rev. Dawn Alpaugh, to offer the invocation for the City of Lambertville's Mayor & Council Reorganization Meeting. It was an honor to be there to represent our many congregants who live in Lambertville. Here is part of the blessing we offered: 

Shalom and Happy New Year!

As we mark the beginning of a new year, let us take a moment to reflect on the blessings we have received and the opportunities that lie ahead.

May this year bring strength to our hands as we work together to build a more compassionate and generous community. Let us honor the diversity that enriches our city, celebrating our shared values of justice, kindness, and respect. 

May we be inspired to deepen our connections with one another, to reach out in service, and to lift up those who are in need. May our city be a beacon of light, where all feel welcomed, safe, valued, and heard.

As we stand together, let us offer our gratitude for new beginnings and for the opportunities that await us in this fresh year. May we walk forward with hope, courage, and unity.

Bless this city, its leaders, its residents, and all who come here. May we all be blessed with good health, peace, and prosperity in the year ahead.
And let us say, Amen.

On this first Shabbat of 2025, I wish for you a shabbat of peace. Let us use this time to imagine a world we can create together where we all can feel welcomed, safe, valued, and heard. 

Zay gezunt, be well,