Shabbat in Jerusalem

CCAR Convention - Day 5

Shabbat in Jerusalem. That simple phrase says it all for those who have experienced it.

Moving and meaningful worship with colleagues at Merkaz Shimshon, a beautiful facility at the headquarters of the World Union for Progressive Judaism headquarters whose broad picture windows frame a view of David's Citadel, the Temple Mount and the Old City, and a day spent with friends in study and strolling through the Old City made for a very special Shabbat.

Of special note... this was the third straight day of rain in a country that has been threatened by months of drought. Noting that our Amidah during this period includes the phrase Masheev Haruach u-Moreed Hagashem (You cause the wind to shift and the rain to fall), we began to joke that it took the prayers of 350 Reform Rabbis in Jerusalem to bring an end to the drought! Of course, I don't think our Hareidi friends would agree! :-)

Even though it rained throughout the day, nothing could dampen our spirits or dowse the sparks of the spirit inflamed by a Shabbat in Jerusalem.