From the Rabbi's Desk...
 
Rabbi Irwin Huberman
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May 18, 2010
Shalom Chevre....
It's been a remarkable few days at Congregation Tifereth Israel as we have marked the successes of this congregation over the past few years.
We began Wednesday night with a scintillating concert at B'nai Jeshurun which combined the Judaic tradition of Neshamah Carlebach with the uplifting spirit of the Green Pastures Baptist Choir.
On Thursday, more than seventy CTI members were on hand to witness the ordination of eight rabbis and two cantors. On Friday, more than 160 celebrated Shabbat and CTI's musical tradition.
We witnessed Saturday the Bar Mitzvah of John Kelly, and the weekend culminated with celebration as I was installed as your rabbi.
It was five days which I will forever look back at with warmth and the deepest gratitude.
What stands out in my mind however was you, the amazing congregant of this remarkable synagogue.
More than thirty guests joined us from Israel, the United Kingdom, Canada, and far off places in the United States. And as each departed Glen Cove, each commented on how someone or a number of people had extended hands of friendship, or an offer of hospitality.
While many came to experience the bright lights of Manhattan along with Glen Cove, it was remarkable how many chose to remain in our area, attend all events, and soak in the CTI spirit.
I watched how, as a community, we embraced those of the Christian faith, or from distant Canadian communities, and made them feel at home.
I am also deeply touched by the fact that more than fifty CTI members served on committees, taking care of all the details. Thank you to each of you, in particular to Susan Goldberg who chaired this remarkable community effort and to president Richard Lazarow and Executive Director Kim Schweitzer for taking care of so many of the other details.
During the past four years, while the Cantor and I have served as spiritual leaders during a time of significant growth, it has been the kindness and remarkable spirit of CTI which has made this possible.
Hundreds of hours of volunteer time are contributed each week in this congregation. Respect for each other, and for those in need are guiding this congregation's growth.
That spirit has been here all along.
As I mentioned on Sunday, I will try to be the best Rabbi Irwin I can be. There will be successes and challenges along the way, but if we remain open in our communication, honest in our discussions, dedicated to our learning, and compassionate in our thoughts and deeds, then this congregation will grow for years to come.
Since she returned home to Toronto two days ago, my mother, Charlotte, has not stopped crying. These are tears of joy, and they will not stop.
She is so gratified that her son and his wife and family have found such a wonderful place to live, and to serve God. May we continue to serve together for many years to come.
Tomorrow is a new day. It is Shavuot, and we will mark the giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai with some knowledge at the heart of Torah: that goodness, justice, and humility are alive in this place.
Thank you all for welcoming Patte and me, and our family and friends, to this community.
May we continue to celebrate Torah and the blessings of life together for many years to come.
We are just as good as the next thing we do. And, friends, we have so much more to do.
Chag Sameach (Happy holiday).
Kol tuv (with all goodness).
Rabbi Irwin Huberman
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