CyberTorah

I am so grateful to be the Rabbi at Kol Emeth. This community is such a special place for me and for my family. I have felt so supported, both in celebration and in challenges. Shabbat Kiddush at Kol Emeth is one of my favorite places on Earth! Among the gifts of being the Rabbi here has been the opportunity every few years to take some sabbatical time (I receive 5 months sabbatical every 7 years, which I have generally been taking in two pieces). This helps me stay renewed and take time for my own spiritual growth.

I will be on sabbatical from April 22nd to July 10th. During that time, Carol and I will be taking a wonderful trip to Africa and Israel. We will get to see some incredible wildlife and beauty and to visit Synagogues in South Africa, England, and Israel. We will also get to spend Shavuot with my cousins who live in a moshav outside of Tel Aviv.

While I am travelling, I intend to write detailed self reflections, considering how I want to be as a Rabbi – and as a human – over the next 10 years or so. At 55 years old, I want to focus the last third of my career with intention and spirituality. My plan is to share those reflections with respected colleagues, selected Board members and congregants, and my wonderful leadership team at KE.

While away, I am so grateful to the whole team for supporting Kol Emeth. Rabbi Graff makes it easy to go away, because I know she will be present spiritually and pastorally for everyone. I am so grateful to the extra time she gives the community in my absence. Similarly, I appreciate Sarah Miller, Alan Crystal, and Pepe Sanchez for the extra effort and time that my being away means for them. I am grateful to be working with some of the most wonderful professionals – and friends.

And finally, I am grateful to you for allowing me this sacred time of renewal and reflection. I appreciate your compassion and wisdom. This time gives me the time and space to be renewed and spiritually present as your Rabbi.

I leave after Passover, and return on July 10th. I look forward to regaling you with stories and coming back renewed and refreshed!!

Shabbat Shalom-

Rabbi David Booth

Please note CyberTorah will be on hiatus as well, resuming in August.