D’VAR TORAH
TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM BOARD MEETING
FEBRUARY 23, 2011
When we hear B’shert, we naturally think of Fate---meant to be. That was my reaction when I opened the Chumash to this week’s Parasha Vayakhel and realized that, aside from the first three verses which deal with the observance of Shabbat, the entire parasha is devoted to the building of the Tabernacle, the Ark, and all the contents therein. Could there be a more appropriate parasha on a night when we will be hearing about the final plans for our new Sanctuary and social hall?!
We read once again about the well-publicized building campaign which was over-subscribed when all the people responded with everything from gold bracelets and earrings and nose-rings to wool and linen and goat hair to oils and spices and jewels—all materials to be used to complete the project. The parasha also repeats many of the details which appeared in the last two and a half parashot we have read. However, this time the details have been refined to the nth degree so there could be no mistake as to how they should be carried out.
Moses carries out G-d’s wish to appoint Bezalel and Oholiab as the Head Craftsmen whom He fills with G-dly spirit, with wisdom, insight, and knowledge, and the skills to perform all the necessary crafts. And He filled them with wise hearts. Moses was also commanded to allow every man whose heart inspired him and everyone whose spirit motivated him to do the labor to complete the work.
We are fortunate to have our own Bezalels and Oholiabs in Henry Stolzman, Laurie Gross, and Susan Jordan Yoshimine plus their staffs as our Head Craftsmen. We have our congregants who have answered the call for contributions to the campaign—although we certainly are not yet over-subscribed. And we have those who have the inspiration or desire to work on the project as members of the Building/Design Committee. In a few minutes, all of us will have the opportunity to participate in the process by giving our input when we see the presentation of the plans. As a member of the Building/Design Committee, I can assure you that what you are going to see is the result of MANY discussions and revisions and attention to the most minute details ranging not only from the colors for the carpet and window glass but also the adjustment in the height of the reading tables and the light for the Ner Tamid. Nothing has escaped the closest scrutiny.
The parasha also reiterates the revised details of the vestments to be worn by the priests. We have not yet appointed the Fashion Committee. Is that in our future plans?
The work of our Board mirrors the process of building the Tabernacle. We have our clergy and lay leaders who possess insight and wisdom and knowledge. We have our members who are inspired and motivated to carry out our mission of “affecting Jewish lives in a positive way” and “creating a community among our members.” We are constantly revising our plans so we can provide the best programs and services and support for our members. But just as the Tabernacle in ancient days could not have been built by Bezalel and Oholiab without the help of the people—and the people could not have built the Tabernacle without Bezalel and Oholiab, so, too, must we work together as a Board with our clergy and leaders to accomplish our goals.
I feel privileged to be a part of this Board and the Building/Design Committee. Who would have thought that I, growing up in a small-town Conservative congregation, would ever have the opportunities afforded me as part of Temple Beth Sholom?! I truly value the experiences I have had here---experiences which have inspired me to work to preserve what I have had for those who will come after me. I hope all of us will continue to be so inspired. I look forward to being able to sit together with my congregants in the new Sanctuary and to continue to work with all of you as we build our Tabernacle—our community—for now and for the future.
Ken Y’Heer Ratzon
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