Rabbi Weill's Blog

Dear Friends,

The Torah is unambiguous: we must care for the vulnerable in our midst. In Parshat Kedoshim – read this week along with Achrei Mot – we are commanded to leave the corners of fields for the poor; to pay laborers punctually; to protect immigrants. 

These and similar statutes compose the greater whole of Leviticus 19, which is in many ways the ethical heart of Torah. 

We at EHNTJC take this mandate seriously. The Lotte Gruen Gemilut Chesed Fund, created by Al Gruen in memory of his late wife, provides congregants with financial assistance for basic needs and emergencies. This fund is supervised by five congregational members who maintain absolute confidentiality. 

These are challenging times for many. If you are in need – or if you are aware of a fellow congregant in need – please contact me. 

You are also welcome to support those in need by writing a check to EHNTJC with a note to direct the contribution to the Lotte Gruen Gemilut Chesed Fund.

We pray for a day when there are no needy with our midst – or anywhere. May we build a society more just and generous.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Jeffrey Weill