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Rabbi Sherman’s Weekly Torah Commentary – July 2-3, 2021 (23 Tammuz 5781)

July 2-3, 2021                           Parashat Pinchas
23 Tammuz 5781                      Shabbat Mevarkhim haChodesh

Rosh HaShanah is still more than two months away, yet this week the Torah reminds us of the shofar. We read in Parashat Pinchas that we are to observe a sacred occasion: “…a day of shofar-sounding” (Numbers 29:1). The shofar blast is stirring, and Rabbi Natan Fenner reminds us that there are also other “shofar sounds” that heighten our attention, stimulate our thoughts, and bring us to a place of great tenderness. A baby’s cry might remind us of a time of exhaustion and exhilaration. A bird’s song might inspire awe and gratitude for nature. Rabbi Fenner writes that even illness motivates us to reflect on our lives. We may find ourselves reflecting and changing our behavior, all because other “shofar sounds” moved us to pay attention in different ways.

For Reflection:
In what ways has the sound of the shofar impacted your life?
What other sounds have motivated or inspired you to reflection or action?

Shabbat Mevarkhim HaChodesh
This Shabbat we bless the new month of Av, which will begin next Friday night and Saturday.

Please join in this week’s Shabbat celebrations on Channel 1960 or in the Synagogue
(Limited seating in the Synagogue; masks required at all times)

Friday at 5:15 PM: Shabbat Blessings in Dining Room
Friday at 6:30 PM: Birthday Shabbat Service, offering blessings to Residents with July birthdays
Saturday at 10:00 AM: Shabbat Shacharit (Morning Service); Blessings in Dining Room at 12:15

Candle Lighting: Candles are available in the Dining Room; you are invited to light as you come in for Shabbat dinner. If you would like to have the honor of lighting candles in the Synagogue, please contact Gitta.

Torah Talk – Shabbat afternoon at 1:30 PM in the Music Room (limited seating; masks required)

Candle lighting time for the city of Mission Viejo: Friday evening at 7:47 PM

Shabbat ends Saturday evening at 8:48 PM

Shabbat Shalom!                   Rabbi Sherman