2026 Shavuot Message

Shalom WJC Family,

Last Shabbat we hosted our first Security Shabbat, when we honored our local law enforcement officers, professional security team, and CSS volunteers with gratitude expressed from the bimah and an invitation to lunch. Mark Berger, the head of our Security Committee and the force behind this idea, shared how the work done to protect the synagogue is so crucial to the sacred activities we do as a community. And then there was a beautiful spontaneous moment when the members of our community showed their respect and admiration to those who protect us with a standing ovation.

The police officers and security personnel were grateful for the recognition, and we are so grateful that they are here to keep us safe so we are able to pursue all the mitzvot, spiritual growth, and education we do at WJC. This week we got yet another sad reminder of how necessary it is to protect our houses of faith. Our prayers for safety and healing are with the families of the victims of the shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego earlier this week.

When the world seems to be rife with violence, hatred, and the devaluing of human life, it can be helpful to celebrate our connection to Torah – a book and philosophy that imagines a better world, based on positive values like peace, justice, and truth. Fortunately, we have a wonderful opportunity to do that starting on Thursday night when we will begin celebrating the holiday of Shavuot, the anniversary of the Revelation of the Torah at Sinai. 

I hope that you will join us at our Shavuot celebrations, including our “Tikkun Layl Shavuot” Thursday night. The “Tikkun” is a customary way to relive the revelation at Sinai by engaging in Torah learning together. We have an extraordinary line-up this year, including members Dr. Jonathan Yaeger, Steven Rabinowitz, and Cheryl Brause. Each of these talented presenters will be leading sessions (sometimes coleading with the clergy) based on their wealth of wisdom and experience. Plus there will be cheesecake! Check out the full schedule here.

Shavuot lasts until Saturday evening, so we’ll have regular Yom Tov services Friday morning and evening, as well as services on Saturday morning that will include the Yizkor Memorial Prayers for those we have loved and lost. Wishing us all a meaningful and beautiful holiday.

See you in shul,

RJA