Shabbat Shalom ~ Vayakhel-Pekudei 2026

Shalom WJC Family,

Spring is quite an unpredictable time (to say the least!).  Just two weeks ago we had a blizzard, and now the air is warmer, the trees are budding, and there’s a sense of renewal everywhere we look. This “in-between” season, from Purim to Passover, has its own rhythm. The Talmud teaches in Masechet Ta’anit that the month of Adar, where we are now, is a time of awakening – awakening to joy, but also to the season: the earth awakening slowly, crops beginning to grow, and we, too, readying ourselves for the transformation of spring and the journey toward freedom and renewal (and Passover cleaning!). It reminds us that growth often happens in stages, and to stay attuned to the subtle and the small, even as the weather and the world keeps us on our toes.

In this week’s parsha, Vayakhel-Pekudei, we read about the Israelites coming together to construct the Mishkan, the portable sanctuary where God would dwell. Each person contributed their skills, energy, and creativity, and together they created something greater than the sum of their parts. There’s a beautiful parallel to our lives today: every one of us brings unique gifts, and when we come together, we build spaces of holiness, joy, and connection.

Just as the Mishkan was built with care, intention, and collaboration, so too are we building a synagogue community where everyone can belong and thrive. In that spirit, I hope you’ll join us this Saturday for our Adult Bnei Mitzvah celebration. What a joyful moment, as we cap off a year of terrific learning and honor the group and their efforts – learning to read Torah, lead a prayer, or get up and share their thoughts on the parsha. Note that services this week will begin at 9:00am rather than 9:15am, followed by a kiddush luncheon together. Sharing in these moments together reminds us that we have so much to offer, and that sharing our gifts is far sweeter than going it alone.

Additional Upcoming Events:

• Gimmel Siddur Celebration – Friday, March 13th, 6pm
  WJC’s “Gimmel” class will receive their first siddurim and begin a journey of prayer and exploration. We are so excited to welcome families and mark this milestone together!

• Community Day – Sunday, March 15th, 12:00pm–3:00pm
  Join us as we bring the energy of spring into acts of tzedakah and community service. Together we’ll support local organizations and help brighten the lives of our neighbors. A perfect way to live the lessons of Vayakhel-Pekudei in action.

Each of these moments is a chance to bring your own light, talent, and spirit to our WJC family. Like the Mishkan, we are stronger, brighter, and more meaningful when we build together.

We hope you’ll join us for one or all of these events, and that this spring season – full of surprises, growth, and renewal – brings joy and connection to you and your family.

See you in shul,

Rabbi Dalton