On a recent visit to New York City, I filled every day with meaningful connections to the past; college friends, some of whom I hadn’t seen in over forty years (!), high school pals and my 7th-grade choral director from fifty years ago. These were sweet and beautiful experiences. One of those days I traveled to the Lower East Side with an old family friend to tour the Eldridge Street Synagogue. It was nestled between a Buddhist Community Center and Chinese stores and restaurants. What a contrast to the crowded Jewish neighborhood of the late 19th and early 20th centuries depicted in historical photographs within its museum.
Our docent capably guided us through the synagogue and its history, including its restoration that was completed in 2007. A final installation in 2010 was the awe-inspiring, majestic stained glass window created by artist Kiki Smith and architect Deborah Gans. As we made our way to the bima, our guide asked me if I’d like to sing something from the pulpit. She didn’t have to ask again! Knowing that Ukrainian-born Pinhas Minkowsky was their first cantor, I regaled our small group with “Shabbat Hamalkah” (Sabbath Queen). As you greet Shabbat this week, I wish for you the opportunity to connect with those you love and be inspired by the beauty of your family traditions.
