Shabbat Shalom ~ Tazria-Metzora 2026

Shalom WJC Family,

In Parashat Tazria–Metzora, we meet the metzora, someone sent outside the camp because their words have caused harm. It’s a shocking reminder to take language seriously- how it can distance us from one another, and how it might also help bring us back.

As we move toward Shavuot, we’re given a pathway for that return. During Sefirat HaOmer (the Counting of the Omer, where we find ourselves now), we practice tikkun hamiddot (refining our inner qualities), paying closer attention to how we show up in our relationships. By the time we reach Sinai, the hope is that we’ve become a community capable of standing k’ish echad b’lev echad (as one person with one heart), ready not just to hear Torah, but to receive it together.

That process isn’t abstract – it happens through learning, listening, and sharing Torah with one another. As we look ahead to Shavuot, we invite you to be part of that shared learning. If you’re interested in teaching or co-teaching, especially in partnership with a member of the clergy, please reach out to Rabbi Arnowitz. Your voice and perspective are an essential part of what makes our shul community and learning meaningful.

I also hope you’ll join us for a special Interfaith Learning Session this Sunday from 4-6pm. The Interfaith Clergy Council presents “Learning with Neighbors,” where pairs of clergy explore the Season of Renewal through their own traditions. This year’s learning will be led by clergy from WJC, St. Thomas Episcopal Church, St. John’s Larchmont, Larchmont Temple, and Larchmont Avenue Church, offering a chance not only to learn, but to practice the kind of careful listening and thoughtful speech that this season calls for. We are grateful for the sponsorship of the Westchester Board of Rabbis, in coordination with the Westchester Jewish Council and UJA Federation, for helping make this event possible

And I hope you’ll be with us in shul this Shabbat as we welcome Rosh Chodesh Iyyar:

• Preschool Pajama Shabbat Friday, 4/17 at 5:30pm
• Rhythm & Ruach and Traditional Service 4/17 at 7:00pm
• Author Program with Michael Shapiro at 8:00pm on his new book, Ketubah Renaissance
• Mazal Tov to the Lewis family, as we celebrate Benji’s bar mitzvah this Shabbat morning

In a time when words can so easily miss the mark, this season invites us to slow down and use them with more intention – to build connection, deepen understanding, and create the kind of community that can truly receive Torah.

See you in shul,
Rabbi Dalton