This morning reminds of Deuteronomy.  The fifth and final book of our Torah scroll is dedicated to recounting where the Hebrews have been, prior to entering a new time and an unknown place.  So it is for Congregation Etz Chaim. 
     It is wise therefore to pause for a minute and publicly acknowledge our joint successes and to dream out loud about what the many tomorrows might yet bring.  Though it may seem strange at first to consider, conceivably the next time we see each other may very well be the High Holy Days in September.  Last year was magical, moving and meaningful, and Debbye and I look so forward with sincere anticipation to this upcoming Yomin Norayim – Days of Awe.  We will build upon our foundation of the past season, while adding new and worthwhile components to our Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. 
    Speaking of services, my assessment in this area is positive and quite telling.  Often, in the early stages of our relationship, I heard and read the phrase “consistent clergy.”  This was shorthand, a code, for the desire to have prayers and melodies that were predicable and participatory.  Thankfully, there is always room to grow, however, it is evident that together we have developed recognizable, liturgical constants, that are comfortable, pleasing and as a soulful congregation we have taken on as our own.  Please G-d, the impending arrival of our new Siddurim – Prayer Book Mishkan T’fillah will enhance our experiences even further.

     Moreover, we have utilized our time in the Sanctuary productively primarily as educational contact points.  Intermittently, sections of the service have been explained on a deeper than surface level, or its origin discussed, and at times even showing the relationship of the prayer to our history, custom or ritual.  Indeed, we dedicated an entire Shabbat morning to what was then called a “Learning Service,” but was quickly and affectionately re-named the “I DIDN’T KNOW THAT,” Service. Teaching, of course, is at the heart of what we Jews do, especially when it relates to our children.  On several occasions, Debbye and I with joyful song, stories and treats, have rooted our young seedlings firmly in the fertile landscape of our heritage and holidays.  
     For example, let’s happily recall Hanukkah.  The lighting of the Menorah on the square, and the sense of excitement and community during our program that followed was uplifting, tangible and authentic for all ages.  That time was also bittersweet, as we said goodbye to the deservedly loved Avivi family.  Unfortunately, we had to also say a different type of goodbye to others cherished by our community.  The passing of Solly Srour, may his name be a blessing, and the death of Betty Green, may her soul be at peace, required that your lay leadership and clergy had to respond in a dignified and appropriate way that signaled both adherence to the principals of Judaism and to the spiritual and practical needs of the families.  I am so proud of Etz Chaim, and the progress and professionalism we exhibited during this inevitable slice of Jewish institutional responsibility. And, like all houses of worship, we transitioned well from sadness to celebration.  
     Aaron’s Bar Mitzvah will be remembered as a watershed moment not only for the Crowell family  but for all of us as well.  A thoroughly prepared student combined with the involvement of so many of our members, resulted in a beautiful, smooth and inspirational ceremony.  This truly reflects our dedication to our people’s sacred life cycle events and to the genuine pleasure of coming and being together.  Sometimes, we benefit from socializing away from our building too.   Although, our calendar included many events at various outside venues, my first field trip was extremely noteworthy as a number of us went to Kansas City to see the fascinating Dead Sea Scroll exhibit. Most likely, I’ll have more to say about that treasure at another time, but suffice it to say for now that those fragments of parchment with Aramaic and Hebrew writing served as a visual symbol of the ancient faith that has continuously defined us for many millennia. 

    And here in Northwestern Arkansas, in our independent and inclusive way, we have paid tribute to the ones that have come before us.  For instance, through our recent multiple baby naming ceremonies.  
What a wonderful chapter in our collective history.  Bestowing beautiful, biblical and classical Hebrew names to our brand new offspring, was transforming.  Like all of you I basked in the pure happiness of the moment, and its cultural and religious significance was similarly heartfelt.  But I must mention that yet again on this Friday night, we had to deal with dueling emotions; rejoicing in the simcha while being somewhat pained by the moving away of one of our foundational families the Bachmans.   Crossroads always seem to come and go so it’s fair to ask what waits for us in the months ahead? 
     To be sure, any final plans will require the proper approval and commitment of our board and members, but I envision the strong possibility of adult B’Nai Mitzvot, as some of you have approached me and expressed such a sincere interest.  In addition, during one of our next visits to Bentonville, we hope to bring instrumental accompaniment to a Kabbalat Shabbat service.   You should also be aware that as a testament to our foresight, we have begun serious discussions about purchasing and consecrating land for our own Jewish cemetery.  Counting each happy occasion as a blessing,  I am pleased to announce that we have already initiated the preparations to celebrate with G-d’s help, Melissa Perlman’s Bat Mitzvah.  
     All of our recent achievements could not have occurred and those that loom on the horizon could not be imagined, without the dedication and effort of our executives, our board and our exemplary volunteers.  Common wisdom usually dictates that specific names not be listed for fear of oversight or omission, yet my heart demands that I mention Betsy Rosen and Wynnie Hoodis.  These two stars shine bright among the constellation of our various luminaries.  Let me add my voice to the chorus of Thanks for everything the two of you do.  Allow me to quote from Eshet Chayil – a woman of valor:  Oz Vhadhr Levusha, Vatischak Lyom Achron, Strength and honor are her clothing, she smiles at the next day.  I would be remiss if I didn’t publicly acknowledge and extend my deepest gratitude to my wife, Debbye.  She is my anchor, my sunrise and my sunset.  As many of you know, during my tenure at CEC, I lost both my father, Leo, zichron l’vracha, and my mother Regina, may she be bound up in life everlasting.  They gave me the gift of an unparalled Jewish education and I will strive to humbly honor their legacy.  
     My dear friends, we are by name and demeanor a Tree of Life.  The metaphor is so perfect.  As time passes, we grow straighter and stronger, in an upward direction as if we are incrementally reaching towards Heaven itself.  As we mature, our branches thicken, providing shade, protection and shelter to ourselves and to all others in our midst who are in need.  And as yet more time goes by, we will produce fruit, sweet and delicious for all future generations to take delight.  Drochechah Darchai Noam Vchol N’tivotehah Shalom.  Let our ways always bring comfort, and may all of our roads lead us to peace
 

Rabbi Jack Zanerhaft