This week’s Torah portion, Toledot, begins with the words, “These are the generations of Isaac, son of Abraham.” It’s a simple introduction, but it reminds us of something important: every generation builds upon the one that came before it. Abraham began a journey of faith, Isaac carried it forward, and Jacob would continue it into the next generation.
I’ve been thinking about that idea of continuity as we prepare for our special concert celebrating Rabbi Amy Schwartzman’s 36 years at Temple Rodef Shalom. Thirty-six years! And still more to go! In Jewish tradition, 36 is twice chai, twice the numerical value of the Hebrew word for life. And what a life Rabbi Schwartzman has helped build for TRS!
Think of the generations of families who have passed through our doors during those years. Children who became B’nai Mitzvah, grew up, married, and now bring their own children to Temple. Think of the countless moments of joy and sorrow, the prayers we have shared, the friendships we have formed, and the Jewish community we have built together. Through it all, Rabbi Schwartzman has been a constant, joyful, dynamic presence, helping guide this congregation from one generation to the next.
What better way to celebrate that continuity than through song! Our concert will bring together Cantor Sydney Michaeli, Rabbi Jeffrey Saxe, our wonderful Koleinu choir, instrumentalists, and me, along with a very special guest, Cantor Tracey Scher, who served as our first assistant cantor here from 2010-2015. There will even be some surprises too! All the performers and musicians on our stage represent different chapters in the life of our congregation, coming together to celebrate the journey we have shared.
Toledot reminds us that our story is never just about us. It is about what we inherit, what we create together, and what we pass along to those who follow. Rabbi Schwartzman has spent 36 years helping us write that story, and there are still many chapters ahead.
I hope you’ll join us for this wonderful musical celebration, as we honor Rabbi Schwartzman and give thanks for the generations of Jewish life she has helped nurture here at Temple Rodef Shalom.
Shabbat Shalom,
Cantor Michael Shochet
