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1. The following speech given
by a Temple Sinai member to his youngest child at her Bat Mitzvah
attests to the spirit and commitment of our temple family:
Rachel’s Bat Mitzvah
Shabbat Shalom -- I want
to thank all of our family and friends for coming today to Rachel’s
Bat Mitzvah. Sindy and I are truly honored to have you as our guests.
One of the most
influential forces in Jewish life was Rabbi Hillel, who was known for
his kindness, gentleness, and concern for humanity. In fact, the
Hillel organization, a network of Jewish college students is named for
him. One of his most famous sayings is “If I am not for myself, then
who will be for me? And if I am only for myself, then what am I? And
if not now, when?” The reason I am speaking right now is based on “if
not now, When!
Rachel is the youngest of
my children. At Michelle’s Bat Mitzvah, I sat in that seat and I said
nothing. At Ashly’s and Matthew’s B’ Nai Mitzvah, I sat in that same
seat and said nothing. So, now the time is now. If not now, When?
Rachel-Mommy and I are thrilled beyond words at your accomplishment of
becoming a Bat Mitzvah today. You have worked and studied hard. Bat
Mitzvah literally means “Daughter of the Commandments.” Your name is
Rachel. Rachel is one of the four Jewish matriarchs. This is a very
tough act to follow; however you are already following our matriarchs’
foot steps. You attended pre-school right here at Temple Sinai and
continued on with your religious studies all the way through to this
day and beyond. You learned to read both English and Hebrew right
here, in this building. Wow, What a Temple this is! Temple Sinai has a
slogan. It is “The Magic of Temple Sinai.” When I first heard this
slogan, it made no sense to me. I was wondering to myself if maybe
David Copperfield had moved to Delray Beach and was considering
becoming a member! Well, all jokes aside, I am feeling the magic right
now at Rachel’s Bat Mitzvah. I understand the slogan. I want to take
this opportunity to thank the Rabbi, Cantor, Officers and Trustees of
Temple Sinai for without their hard work and dedication there would be
no magic.
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