[A letter to TBS Congregants from TBS President, Syvan Swartz]
In honor of Rabbi Donnell's leadership, spirituality and dedication to Temple Beth Sholom, we are embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to write our own Torah. Throughout this 60th anniversary year of our congregation, you will have many opportunities to participate in this exciting program, which we are calling Torat Sholom (Torah of Peace).In addition to being a fitting tribute to Rabbi Donnell, Torat Sholom will give each of us a chance to participate in the history and tradition of our congregation and our people. By fulfilling the 613th commandment of writing a Torah, we will feel a highly personal, spiritual connection with the people committed to establishing our Temple, with our ancestors and with the Jewish way of life.
There will be many learning opportunities for all ages through programming around the Torah. These programs will provide a sense of bonding, because Torah is close to each of our hearts. Members and friends of Temple Beth Sholom will be able to hold the quill or the scribe's hand as he writes letters of Torat Sholom and to dedicate this mitzvah to those we love, honor and remember. Our two scribes, Rabbi Shmuel Miller and Neil Yerman, will explain the intricacies of writing a Torah and its importance to us as Jews.
The power of Torah is enduring. Its precepts have been passed from generation to generation. In a physical sense, a Torah can last hundreds of years. Just as forward-thinking people created Temple Beth Sholom 60 years ago, we are creating something that will last for many years to come. Just as we stand on the shoulders of our ancestors, Torat Sholom will be our loving legacy to new generations.
Come and meet the scribes who will guide us through the creation of Torat Sholom. Join us for a special Shabbat with Neil Yerman on April 23 and for our opening ceremony of writing Torah on May 23.
I encourage you to ensure a long and healthy future for our synagogue by becoming part of Torat Sholom. Watch your mail, Kol Sholom and the TBS website for the dates of the many events we have planned. If you want to help by serving on a Torat Sholom committee or contributing toward it, please contact the Temple office at (714) 628-4600 or information@tbsoc.com Join us in making the words of Deuteronomy 31:19 a reality: "And now write for yourselves these words, and teach them to your children."
L'shalom,
Sylvan Swartz, President
