Ever have one of those times when you are exactly where you want to be and should be? My first Shabbat service as the Senior Rabbi at Temple Emanuel was one of those times. I recognized most of the faces and knew many of the names. Cues flowed seamlessly with the wonderful soloist for whom I have the utmost respect. Congregants graciously agreed to participate in the honors asked. The oneg was social and lively. Wow.

I count my blessings for finding a congregation receptive to my rabbinate. I am grateful for their enthusiasm to want to continue to create an open and supportive community. We want to grow together.

At my first Shabbat morning Torah study as well as the Shabbat services aforementioned, we recited the shecheyanu together. We offered thanks to God for our lives and sustaining us and bringing us to these sacred moments. I am excited to have many of these shecheyanu moments but also to the regularity of congregational occasions.

I am taking delight in getting to know individuals and families as well as the customs of Temple Emanuel. I am grateful for the friendship of a beloved Emeritus, Rabbi Joe Rosenbloom. So much of who I have become is from the guidance of remarkable mentors. This may be another shecheyanu moment.