A Message from Rabbi Bellows

November 3, 2024/2 Cheshvan 5785 

Dear Friends,

In a few days, polls will close, and our Nation’s President will be democratically elected. Between now and when our new president will be announced, I hope that calm might prevail in our nation and in our hearts. In this week’s Torah portion, God tells Abraham and Sarah to Lech Lecha–go forth to a new land, and they do. We are also called this week to ‘go forth.” May we go forth with Hazak (strength), Racahmim, (compassion), Tzedek (pursuit of Justice), and Netzach (perseverance). Please take care of yourselves, this week especially. 

A Prayer for the Electorate by David Zvi Kalman of the Shalom Hartman Institute

May the One who graces

each person with knowledge

and teaches humanity understanding,

bless and protect the voters of this land

on the upcoming election,

so that they may place in all their gates

leaders of thousands and leaders of hundreds

leaders of fifties and leaders of tens,

people of valor who revere God,

people of truth who despise corruption.

The One who sustains nations

on order, on truth, and on peace:

may it be Your will

that no misfortune occur by their hands,

and may the nation rejoice

when the righteous abound.

Save them from a wicked path,

from those who speak perversely.

Send wisdom into their heart

and make knowledge pleasant to their soul,

as it says, “Then you shall understand

virtue and justice; equality and every good path.”

And may it be Your will.

And let us say: Amen.

Blessings,

Rabbi Bellows