Shalom,

I’m writing to you from my office at school, which is eerily quiet for a Friday in March. I hope everyone who is reading this is safe and following the guidelines to do whatever we can to slow the transmission of the coronavirus.

At sunset this evening the Jewish sabbath – Shabbat – begins. Whether you are Jewish or not, and whether you usually observe the sabbath or not, Shabbat presents an opportunity for every family to gather together with those who matter most.

It takes very little to feel the settling power of Shabbat: light a candle or two around sunset to mark the occasion, share a meal, play a board game. At our home, during dinner, we all share some favorite moments from our week and share expressions of gratitude. Hard as those things may be this week, they are more important than ever. Some may wish to add a moment of silence to consider those who have already been impacted by the coronavirus and offer a silent prayer for their healing.

Shabbat also grants us the opportunity to take a break from our devices and from the news headlines. You may want to consider making a commitment to put your devices aside this weekend, at least during the times when two or more people are together. Through simple acts like this, we can choose connection instead of isolation.

We will continue to be in contact with you in the coming days and weeks. In the meantime, wishing you all Shabbat Shalom.

Warm regards,

DK

Rabbi Darren Kleinberg

Head of School