As we enter this High Holiday season of reflection and renewal together, I am reminded that these holidays invite us to pause, look inward, and reconnect—with our traditions, our communities, and with our loved ones. This year, more than ever, we are reminded of the importance of joy, not simply as an emotion but as a strong force that binds our community together.
Joy is found in the laughter shared around our holiday tables, in the melodies of prayer that echo through our synagogues, and in quiet moments of gratitude for our family, our community, and for the Jewish people. It is found in acts of loving kindness, in the resilience of our spirit, and in the hope we carry into the new year.
In a world that often feels uncertain, choosing joy is an act of courage. And when we choose it together, it becomes a source of strength. Let us enter 5786 with renewed purpose and a commitment to lift one another up. May this be a year of sweetness, healing, and shared celebration.
May 5786 provide us the opportunity for unity and continuing engagement in Jewish Tidewater. Unity is our strength. We have myriad examples of increased engagement in our synagogues, our day schools, and in our community programming through many of our Jewish communal organizations.
May 5786 free the Israeli hostages, bring an end to war and suffering in the Middle East, Ukraine, and around the globe, and strengthen the Jewish people.
L’Shanah Tovah Tikatevu,
Betty Ann Levin
Executive vice president/CEO
United Jewish Federation of Tidewater