Words cannot express the gratitude and honor I feel as I write these words. I am deeply thankful for your invitation to serve as Temple Emanuel’s rabbi. I am humbled to follow in the sacred footsteps of the rabbis and spiritual leaders before me, yet ready to assume the sacred task that you have bestowed upon me.
At this moment we now become one family – entering into a b’rit or sacred covenant made in the presence of God and this congregation. I will hold myself to this covenant. I am aware of its depth and magnitude, and sincerely pledge to work on behalf of you, my future congregants and friends.
Let us stand together as we embark on this next stage of our collective journey. Let us acknowledge the menschlekite, depth of commitment and sacred work of the rabbinic search committee, its co-chairs David Coyne and Carol Sleeper, lay leadership and your temple president, Helene Freed.
Know that my wife, Ida, and I are very excited for this tremendous opportunity. We look forward to our arrival in Worcester this July with our son, Avi, who, God willing, will be 14 months old at that time. Most importantly, we look forward to meeting all of you, learning about your dreams, values, ideals and your personal stories.
May God bless each of us as we enter into this sacred partnership. May Temple Emanuel continue to grow and blossom with life and enthusiasm, guided by the wisdom of Jewish tradition, touched by God’s presence. And may we, together, continue to weave the rich and colored tapestry that links us to our past and provides the inspiration to an even brighter future. Amen.
B’shalom,
Rabbi Matthew Berger
