I am writing this message
from the 59th convention of
the Cantors Assembly. These
gatherings are meant to
educate, reinvigorate and
allow for members of the
Conservative Cantorate to
share triumphs, successes and
yes, even failures in leading
the diverse populations of the
American synagogue. It is an opportunity to see and
hear about what is happening in synagogues through
out our nation, something which is often very
difficult, because of the nature of our calling, to
observe first hand. When I return, I hope to share the
new music and ideas which I glean from this
experience.
Last month’s JTS and Hazzanim in Training
weekend was a great success. The three students who
participated with us went back to the H. L. Miller
Cantorial School with wonderful stories of their
experiences at B’nai Moshe. They all share their
eagerness to return to us sometime in the future. I plan
on continuing this program annually, bringing in
students from the school to share their skills and
talents with us.
On July 23-25, we will be off on our second
annual B’nai Moshe Getaway. Last year the group
traveled to Toronto and this year we will be going to
Chicago. As of the writing of this message, we have
25 people already signed up to go. I hope by the time
you read this we will be at capacity with over 40. My
co-chairs, Joel and Ruth Shayne, Betty Weiner and
Alan Rosenfeld and I have spent many hours planning
to make this an exciting, educational as well as fun
trip. Some of the highlights include a concert by
Pinchas Zuckerman, a Chicago River cruise, a tour of
some spots of Jewish interest, a chance to sample the
best of Kosher Cuisine in the Windy City and a travel
down memory lane, for many Detroiters, as we stop in
South Haven. If you haven’t reserved a spot to go,
their may still be some openings. As with the group
that went to Israel with me and the travelers on the
Toronto trip, this is a great way to get to know
members of the congregation and develop a closer
relationship with your Cantor, me, as well.