Joliet Jewish Congregation

Cantor Jessica's Notes

 

 

Shalom!

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I hope that, since our Sunday and secular School years ended in May, you and your family have been enjoying some time together. Shavuot was already a couple of weeks ago, and it was fun to celebrate early with our synagogue family at the congregational picnic. Playing with bubbles and sidewalk chalk was a fun activity for our students, and the delicious food from our wonderful parent volunteers is always tasty. 

 

A huge thank-you to our parents and staff for their help this whole school year! We appreciate our families, and their bright, engaged students. 

 

Officially, summer will be here soon, with associated warm weather, time spent enjoying the sun outside, alternating with time indoors to cool off and read or watch videos or movies. 

 

One of the activities I’ve been doing lately is songwriting. A friend and colleague, Rabbi-Cantor Robbi Sherwin, helped me expand a new melody for Hinei Mah Tov into a full-fledged prayer. 

 

Here are the lyrics: 

 

Hinei, hinei mah tov

Hinei, hinei mah tov

U’manaim, u’manaim

 

Hinei, hinei mah tov

Hinei, hinei mah tov

U’manaim, u’manaim

 

Shevet achim, shevet achim 

Gam Yachad

Shevet achim, shevet achim 

Gam Yachad

 

May we come together always

May we come together

As we all wait for peace 

 

Shevet achim, shevet achim 

Gam Yachad

As we all wait for peace

May we come together in love,

As we all wait for peace

 

 

May we have a peaceful summer! Wishing you some time to reflect, relax and enjoy, 

 

Cantor Jessica