A Note from Rabbi Weinberg: Reflecting on 27 Remarkable Years

The past few weeks have truly been an emotional rollercoaster for me. I’m sitting in my office right now, surrounded by boxes, empty bookshelves, and memories. I’ve come across letters you’ve written to me, photos from Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, and so much more. It’s a reminder of just how special this journey has been.

While I look ahead to retirement, I also find myself reflecting with deep appreciation for what these years together have meant. Serving as your rabbi has been an extraordinary blessing, one of the most fulfilling labors of love I could have ever imagined.

As I prepare for this next chapter, I know the future of our synagogue is in good hands. Rabbi Kushnick and the wonderful team around him will continue to lead Anshai Torah to new heights and open new horizons for our community.

Of course, like so many of you I’ve also been reflecting on the events unfolding in Israel. In those difficult days after October 7th, I worried, as did many of us about Israel losing its sense of security in such a dangerous part of the world. But then, the miracles began to unfold. Through the remarkable power of technology, ingenuity, and determination, Israel has reclaimed its strength, and today, it’s being recognized as the Middle East superpower.

It may be bittersweet, but the reality is that strength protects freedom. Israel’s strength and the values we hold dear help secure not only our future but the future of the free world.

This week, as we observe Rosh Chodesh Tammuz and welcome in Shabbat, we sing the words of Hallel, expressing gratitude for the many blessings in our lives. And so, I want to close by simply saying thank you.

Thank you for 27 incredible years. Thank you for trusting me as your rabbi. Thank you for the love, the partnership, and the memories.

I look forward to seeing all of you soon.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Stefan Weinberg