Dear all,

With this unprecedented and polarizing Presidential election over, we wanted to acknowledge the many highly personal responses among all of us – whether distress, elation, concern, vindication, uncertainty or anything in between. Central is a diverse community in every way, including how we voted in the polls. While this can feel like a challenge in a divisive election, the multiplicity of views within our community is actually one of our greatest strengths. In a world of echo chambers and ideological bubbles, learning how to pray, sing, and serve others across our lines of difference can model how our country should now move forward.  

And this is not new for the Jewish people. Since ancient times, when our community divided among the Sadducees and Pharisees, to the rabbinic split of the House of Hillel and the House of Shammai, to today’s Reform and Orthodox, Judaism has never aspired to uniformity of thought or practice, and yet we have always found ways to remain one people.  

We will continue to hold fast to our Jewish values – modeling civil discourse, passionate debate, engaged activism, kindness, teshuva, gratitude, and grace. We will continue to fight for the most vulnerable among us and uphold the dignity of every human being. We will continue to call out and fight antisemitism wherever it manifests. Each one of us has the ability and responsibility to make this country one where all of us can live and thrive together. 

We appreciate how much our community shows up for Shabbat and holidays, for programs, and for each other. And we look forward to seeing you, as always. Meanwhile, please know we are here to talk with you, if that is something that is helpful.

Your Central Clergy