From our Principal: Gimilut Chasadim

This article first appeared in our Mar/Apr '26 edition of The Bulletin

Unlike charity alone, gimilut chasadim includes giving time, presence, compassion, and helping others in ways that honor their dignity and humanity.

And in its practice, gimilut chasadim works to strengthen communities, deepen relationships, and connections between individuals are fostered. It reflects the idea that holiness is found not only in ritual, but in everyday actions of care, empathy, and generosity toward others.

As I’m writing this in snowy January, we’re preparing for our grade 6 class and their families to work and learn with Rabbi Weitzman at the Soup Kitchen in early February. While our students certainly enjoy the learning portion of the morning, and the prep is always fun community building, it’s the connection with the Soup Kitchen’s guests that is truly meaningful. And, it’s beautiful and holy to watch as our students realize the humane lessons of the day.

Our Education Committee is knee-deep in planning for the school’s annual Mitzvah Day, scheduled for Sunday, April 19. This day allows all students, along with their families, a chance to work together on an impactful project that serves our greater community. This year, we hope to be working to support local organizations like RISSE, Daughters of Sarah, Diane’s Farm (can’t get much more local than that!), among others.

Both are activities full of mitzvot and menschmaking with lessons that will endure!

Sara Salitan-Thiell, Principal of The Einhorn Center for Jewish Education