New CBE President’s Column

Fellow Congregants,

As we move through the weeks of the Omer, counting each day from Passover to Shavuot, I’ve found myself reflecting on how this sacred tradition resonates beyond our personal spiritual journeys — and deeply connects to the life of Beth El Norwalk.

Counting the Omer is a deliberate act. Each day is marked with intention, a reminder that growth doesn’t happen all at once, but through steady, mindful progress. In many ways, this mirrors the rhythm of synagogue life. Whether it’s attending services, volunteering for a committee, showing up for a fellow congregant in need, or simply being present at community events — each act of participation may seem small on its own, but together they build something lasting and meaningful.

Our synagogue doesn’t run on programs alone. It thrives because of the consistent, thoughtful involvement of its members — your voices, your hands, your hearts. Just as the Omer links liberation to revelation, our collective participation links tradition to transformation. The vitality of our community is nurtured day by day, one engaged member at a time.

It seems to me that the founders of our synagogue were intentional in aligning the season of leadership transition with the Omer. They understood this was a time not only of counting days, but of cultivating vision — a journey from freedom to purpose, from potential to responsibility. In that spirit, leadership changes are not just procedural moments, but sacred ones, rooted in the rhythms of our tradition and the values of our community.

This year, similar to last year, and yet in other ways deeply dissimilar, our counting is layered with an added weight; we are also counting the days until all 59 hostages still held in Gaza are safely returned home. Each day that passes, we hold them and their families in our hearts, praying fervently for their release, their reunion, and their healing. May our counting be an act of remembrance, of solidarity, and of hope.

As we count these days together, may we also count ourselves in — as active, caring contributors to this vibrant kehillah. Your presence makes a difference. Your engagement is a blessing.

I wish you continued meaning in your Omer journey and look forward to sharing the steps ahead with you.

B’Shalom,

David