It is through experiences with our youth that we ourselves experience and encounter God. During moments when we are prepared to be their teachers, we are often awakened to the possibilities of life through their ideas, their sense of humor, their reaction to the world. This evening's service serves as a perfect example. Through their creativity, our youth have inspired us. The readings so beautifully composed by Suzanne Davis, Tamara Ascher, Naomi Baldinger, Sheer Nisman, Alana Kardon and Rebekah Planto renewed my intention towards these prayers.
Further inspiration comes from the commitments our students have made.
We have, at Temple Beth-El, a very high retention rate between Bar and Bat Mitzvah and Confirmation. This is due, in no small measure, to the quality of the program, and parental involvement. Yet a program is not successful if our students are not involved. This year, we will confirm 22 students. These students have studied and discussed, written and reflected.