L’ Shanah Tovah – to a good and sweet year ahead!
A special message from JFCS C.E.O. Dr. David Finke
Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the Jewish High Holy Days, a period of self-examination and spiritual growth. It is a time when we pause to reflect on the past year and take stock of our actions, behaviors, and choices and look towards the future with renewed passion for life and our place on Earth.
A Time for Reflection
Rosh Hashanah, which translates to “Head of the Year” in Hebrew, marks the beginning of the Jewish High Holy Days, a period of self-examination and spiritual growth.
We ask ourselves tough questions about our relationships, our contributions to our communities, and our personal growth. What have we done well, and where can we improve? Rosh Hashanah challenges us to confront these questions honestly and make amends where necessary.
For JFCS, this reflection involves examining the work we have done to support vulnerable individuals and families in our community. I have the privilege of witnessing the profound impact JFCS has on individuals and families throughout the year, but I would be remiss if I didn’t use this to examine our work and our impact on our community.
Have we fulfilled our mission to provide assistance, counseling, and resources to those in need? Have we made a positive impact on the lives of our clients? These are the questions that drive us to continually improve our services and outreach efforts.
A Time for Renewal
Rosh Hashanah not only prompts us to look back, but also encourages us to look forward. It is a time for renewal and a fresh start.
At JFCS, we are inspired by the idea of renewal, not only for ourselves but for our clients as well. We believe in the power of transformation and the potential for individuals and families to overcome challenges and thrive “with dignity and purpose”. Rosh Hashanah reminds us of the importance of offering hope and support to those facing difficult times, helping them renew their sense of possibility.
A Time for Hope
Hope is a central theme of Rosh Hashanah. It is a time when we express our hope for a sweet and fruitful year ahead in our personal lives and the world around us.
JFCS is built on the foundation of hope. For over 100 years, we have provided hope to those who may be experiencing despair or hardship. Though our programs and services may have changed over time, our simple mission of helping our friends and neighbors navigate life’s challenges and find a path to a brighter future has remained steadfast. Rosh Hashanah is a time for us to recommit to that mission and stay the course started for us back in 1908.
Reflection, renewal, and hope. The Jewish High Holy Days serve as a reminder that growth and change are possible, both individually and as a community. At JFCS, we are committed to embodying these principles in our work and ensuring that our clients have the support and resources they need to embrace life with hope and resilience.
As Jews across the world gather with family and friends to celebrate this special holiday, may it be a time of deep introspection and inspiration for us all, Jews and non-Jews alike, and may that reflection lead to a greater peace and prosperity for everyone.
L’ Shanah Tovah – to a good and sweet year ahead!