CBE President: Remembering Our Way Home

This article first appeared in our Sept/Oct '25 edition of The Bulletin

“Turn us back to You, Adonai, and we shall return; renew our days as of old.”

- Lamentations 5:21

As the High Holy Days approach, I find myself thinking not just about where we are going in the year ahead, but about where we’ve come from - and who walked beside us on the way.

There’s a midrash that teaches: when the Temple stood in Jerusalem, people brought offerings to God. The wealthy brought gold, silver, and precious goods. But one man came empty-handed. He stood quietly and said, “I bring only myself. I offer my heart.” And God accepted his gift before all others.

That simple story reminds me that holiness isn’t measured by what’s on our table, but by who is around it - and the love we bring to that space.

For my family, the High Holy Days have always been a time of gathering. No matter how busy life gets, we pause to come together - to share a meal, to share stories, and to share the holiness of the season. My mom, of blessed memory, had a gift for creating sacred space at our table. It wasn’t about the perfect place settings or the recipes - though she certainly had both. It was about how she welcomed everyone in, making them feel seen, valued, and loved.

Her table was always full - with family, with friends, and sometimes with people who simply needed a place to belong.

Now, that tradition is mine to uphold, and mine to cherish.

As I set my own holiday table this year, I’ll think of her hands, folding napkins, her smile as she looked around the room, and her quiet pride in bringing people together. And I’ll remember that what matters most is showing up with an open heart.

As we enter 5786, we all have the chance to create sacred spaces of our own - not just around our dinner tables, but in our homes, in our friendships, and here at Congregation Beth Emeth. Whether your traditions are long-held or just beginning, may this season bring you renewal, connection, and deep joy.

Here at Beth Emeth, your home away from home, we’re preparing to welcome you - with open arms, open hearts, and plenty of warmth (and maybe a little brisket too). Together, we’ll sing, reflect, and begin the new year as a community grounded in faith, tradition, and care for one another. I hope you will join me in wearing the name badge we will be providing as your High Holy Day ticket, so that we may all greet someone new to us.

From my family to yours, wishing you and your loved ones a Shanah Tovah - a sweet, healthy, and peaceful new year.

L’shanah tovah tikateivu,

Robin Sobol, CBE President