There is no better parsha that speaks to the Jewish people about their obligations to helping those less fortunate than Ekev. “[God] upholds the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and befriends the stranger, providing him with food and clothing. You too must befriend the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Deuteronomy 10:18-19).
Social Action is an important part of Temple life. When we come together as a community to help the less fortunate, the lonely and the sick, we become an earthly emulation of God’s grace. We experience empathy. And with each act of kindness, we follow our credo, tikkun olam, to make the world a better place.
In this month of August, children are getting ready to return to school. Parents are busy buying pencils, notebooks, calculators and backpacks. Some children are even lucky enough to have laptops and iPads. But there are children in our own neighborhood whose parents are not able to buy simple pencils and pads let alone iPads and laptops. It’s enough for them to provide shelter and food for their families.
This year Norm Sarachek and Cheryl Shadick spearheaded the Tools for Schools program for the Cleveland Elementary School in downtown Allentown, notably one of the poorest schools in the Valley. Congregants of TSS donated school supplies that will not only help the children and their families, but will also help the teachers who often purchase these items using their own money.
TSS thanks all those who donated money or supplies to the Tools for Schools program, and a special thanks to Norm and Cheryl for coordinating this initiative.
More on Shabbat Services:
In keeping with the Social Action theme, Andrew Feldman gave an insightful Sermon about his recent internship at the Religious Action Center in Washington, D.C., where he learned much about being an advocate for social change. Andrew stimulated discussion and enthusiasm towards our TSS efforts at tikkun olam and social justice issues. Thanks, Andrew, for your words.
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