One of the most profound quotes from our Torah comes from Vayeitzei, in Genesis. Jacob awakes from his dream and says “ Truly, God is in this place, and I did not know it. He was awestruck, and said, “How awe-inspiring is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven!” Genesis 28:16-17. I serve Temple Shirat Shalom, a new congregation in the valley only three years old. We have religious school at the JCC, services at the Swain School and sometimes in people’s homes. We have to find our spirituality in ourselves. The beautiful edifices are not there to aid us in our learning or worship. Oftentimes, on a Friday night I refer to the room we worship in as our sanctuary. I have asked congregants whether they feel that the room we worship in is a sanctuary, they all say yes. This made me think about the nature of prayer and community.
We have celebrated many of our congregant’s life cycle events on a Friday night. For our size I cannot believe how many times people wish to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, as well as all the regulars ufrufs, baby namings, yahrsteits and of course B’nai mitzvahs at our services. It is the desire to share their lives in a Jewish context with their fellow congregants that compels them. Obviously, the being together brings God into our midst. It is not the trappings that are needed it is amcha, the people of Israel that is needed.
A few weeks ago I officiated at a b’nai mitzvah that took place in their home. There were many logistical issues but once we began I felt something very special. The Jacob quote was in my mind. It was a beautiful service filled with love and pride, for the young adults, God and the Jewish people. The sun was shining through the windows and the twins were surrounded by everyone and everything they love. The intimacy of the service was lovely. I think everyone who attended was surprised how moving it was. We are used to services in large sanctuaries with many people participating. This was just the basics and that was more than enough. Everything was included, our tradition was able to shine through with nothing between us and the Presence of God.
When I was in seminary, we would joke that we should guard against an edifice complex. It certainly is moving to enter a lovely space, however, as I have learned over these past three years what is lasting and important is what you walk in with. Religious experiences can be anywhere. As Jacob realized God can dwell in a place where you use a rock for a pillow.
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