This week, we are celebrating our youth.
This past Sunday, we launched our Junior Youth Group (JYG) for our rising 5th – 7th grade students. We’re blessed to have two third-generation young, enthusiastic, volunteers as our new youth co-advisors: Adam Gonzalez and Jacob Griffin. Adam and Jacob both attended our ECC, went through our Religious School, celebrated their B’nai Mitzvah here, attended Camp Sholom as campers and counselors, and developed life-long friendships here at TBS. They are keen to share their love of life, Judaism, and fun with our young students. Their first gathering was fantastic, as 22 students joined together to learn about youth group, get to know Adam and Jacob, and have some fun. The JYG will meet once/month for outings, social events, and other special opportunities.
At our Erev Shabbat this evening, we celebrate the dedication of five of our Senior School students who have chosen to continue their Jewish journey post B’nai Mitzvah: Bruno Bernat, Eliana Dodyk, Stella Hernandez, Isabella Matijevich, and Alex Shih. In a world filled with distractions and competing priorities, their steadfast commitment to learning and living the values of our faith is truly commendable. Each of these five remarkable young people leads very busy lives: school, commitments to dance, sports, drama, Scouting. Each chose, of his or her own volition, to continue their Jewish educational journey, in a world where being Jewish is increasingly difficult. Each carries their Jewish identity proudly and exemplifies what it means to live a life of value and meaning.
Our Torah portion for this week, Kedoshim, from the book of Leviticus, reminds us that each one of us is called upon to be holy and that all of our actions, large and small, are holy. We express this sense of holiness when we emulate the Divine in our actions and interactions with others. Our students of all ages embody this spirit of holiness through their love of Judaism, their friendships and relationships, their pursuit of knowledge, their acts of kindness, and their unwavering dedication to their spiritual growth.
When I reflect on Adam and Jacob’s commitment to sharing themselves with our JYG, our 5th -7th graders passion and love of spending time together in a Jewish context, and the commitment of our Senior School students, I am reminded of the words from the biblical prophetic Book of Joel: "The old shall dream dreams, the youth shall see visions." (Joel 3:1) Our youth, filled with passion and vision, are not merely the leaders of tomorrow but the torchbearers of today. They bring fresh perspectives, boundless energy, and a sense of purpose that inspires us all.
As we continue to nurture and support our young learners, let us also draw inspiration from their enthusiasm and optimism. Together, let us dream dreams of a world filled with compassion, justice, and peace, and let us work tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality.
