It feels like a month ago that I wrote to you on the eve of Purim, but that was just last Monday before COVID-19 had turned our lives fully upside down. These are scary, uncertain days. Our worlds are becoming smaller, and at the same time, our responsibilities are expanding. This is totally overwhelming. As we keep physical distance from one another, I feel in my gut a growing need for spiritual connection. Finding creative ways to gather in circles over Zoom and be present in each other's lives will be essential for getting through to the other side of this very challenging time. So we're going to experiment, and adapt as we go. - Centering Circle on Tuesday, March 17th, 2:00-2:30p.
Because we need to remember to breathe.
Sit with me and Meditation Teacher & Psychologist Amy Gross. We'll explore the power of breath from multiple perspectives, and then experience how breathing can calm and ground us through a guided meditation. Email bmiller@sanctuaryny.org for the zoom link and with any questions.
- Story Time Gathering on Thursday, March 19th, 3:00-3:30p.
Because we're all learning how to do school at home.
We'll start getting ready for Passover with some PJ Library stories. Designed for 4-6 year olds. BYO snack. Email bmiller@sanctuaryny.org for the zoom link.
- Challah Baking Circle on Friday, March 20th, 11-11:45a.
Because it's easier to tackle the steps of challah baking when you're home all day.
We'll make dough together and share about our weeks. Later in the day, we can compare finished products and welcome Shabbat with warm, beautiful bread.
Email bmiller@sanctuaryny.org for the zoom link and recipe. In future weeks, I'd love to choose a book to read or TV series to watch - something we can explore on our own and then come together to discuss, something that will offer grounding, inspiration, distraction and connection. But let's experience this new routine a bit before deciding the details of what and when. This week in our Torah reading cycle, the Israelites build their portable sanctuary for the wilderness. It's a powerful experience for this group of humans who have no idea what the future holds. Working together on a concrete project gives them focus, builds trust, and creates a space for the Spirit to dwell. Together may we stay healthy and safe. May we protect the vulnerable in our midst. May we discover deep sources of calm and compassion.
May we construct new platforms for connection now when we need them the most. Sending love and strength to each of you,
Rabbi Bethie Miller | |
