April 28, 2022

Shalom Chaverim (Dear Friends),

It’s hard to believe that I am already writing my third Shabbat message to you. The days fly by; these first few weeks in town are moving at warp speed for me. I have already had so many wonderful experiences, meetings, and have attended such wonderful events. My wife Lori and I are overjoyed that just yesterday, our daughter Danielle gave birth to our first grandchild. We are thrilled to welcome Emilia Louise Pajda (Eliana Liora) into the world! I know she will bring so much joy to Danielle, our son-in-law, Colin, and to us! This week, I also experienced my first Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County Annual Meeting, and all I can say is WOW. I feel so fortunate to be an agency partner with such a strong and vibrant Federation.

Speaking of WOW, last Sunday, a group of 30 Schwedelson Sunday Social Scene participants, along with Levis JCC Schwedelson Special Needs Department staff, boarded a coach bus at our Levis JCC at 9:00 am and headed to Miami for a full day of fun and friendship. The group of adults ages 18 – 50+ first stopped at the Miami Seaquarium, where they enjoyed shows, animal encounters, and lunch. They then spent the afternoon exploring the art of Wynnwood Walls, followed by dinner at Joey’s Italian Restaurant. A great time was had by all!

You are receiving this Shabbat Message at the end of Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day. This day is always a special and somber reminder of the evil that man has inflicted upon his fellow man. At this time, with the violence being inflicted on Ukrainians in that war-torn country, it is imperative that the Jewish community speak out against such heinous disregard for human life.

This week’s Torah portion is Acharia Mot (after the death). Following the deaths of Nadav and Avihu, sons of Aaron, it is made clear only the rightful Kohen Gadol, the High Priest, may enter the innermost chamber of the Sanctuary once a year on Yom Kippur.

With so many people dying in Ukraine, many who were innocent civilians, we remember them along with the 6 million Jews and 10 million people in total who perished during the Holocaust.

And then we think of the 30 Schwedelson Sunday Social scene participants. And I contemplate the birth of my new baby granddaughter as a new member of our people. We can all take some comfort in remembering that in Judaism we celebrate life above all else….

Light candles Friday night at 7:34 pm
Shabbat ends Saturday night at 8:29 pm

L’ Chayim and Shabbat Shalom!

Marty