The morning began with a fantastic Cantorial Ensemble singing Ma Tovu. At this point, I knew this was going to be a once in a lifetime experience. I could feel the emotions churning in the air. Next we listened to the greetings, invocation, and welcoming remarks. Then we got to hear the choir sing a beautiful Shehechiyanu.
The ordination began….One by one, eleven students became our future. Each student became a new Reform Rabbi. They were presented for Ordination by their mentors, friends and relatives. Noam Shalom Katz was presented by his father, Rabbi Alan Katz. Sara Michal Mason-Barkin was presented by her father, Rabbi Steven Mason.
Daniel Bloom Medwin was presented by his mother, Rabbi Michele Medwin. His new bride, Lydia Helen Bloom Medwin, became a Rabbi at the same time on this sacred day. All of the candidates and now Rabbis were congratulated by their peers, friends, family and teachers. Although I had not known any of the students personally, I became a part of this great big community family.
I am so proud to be a part of WRJ. We help make this life changing event occur with our donations and support. We ensure that the future generations will continue Reform Judaism and our values.
Welcome to the new Rabbis: Jordana Felice Chernow-Reader, Lindy Reznick Davidson, Noam Shalom Katz, Ari Nathan Margolis, Erin Leah Ellis Mason, Sara Michal Mason-Barkin, Daniel Bloom Medwin, Lydia Helen Bloom Medwin, Joshua Marc Samuels, Mirian Pauline Terlinchamp and Reuben Isadore Zellman.
May you all be blessed with peace, love and knowledge to pass on to our future generations…
Phyllis Bigelson
WRJ Pacific District Vice President
and proud member of the Women of Reform Judaism