Summer Sermon Series Begins! – Tefila/Prayer

As the warmth of summer envelops us, we find ourselves entering a season ripe for reflection and spiritual growth. This summer, I am delighted to announce a special sermon series dedicated to one of the most profound aspects of our faith: prayer.

Prayer in Judaism is a multifaceted and deeply enriching practice. It can appear intricate, with its structured liturgies and set times, yet it holds the potential to elevate our spirits and connect us intimately with the Divine. Through prayer, we navigate our deepest desires, our need for repentance, our expressions of gratitude, and our quest for healing.

At first glance, the daily practice of prayer might seem complex, perhaps even daunting. Many are intimidated by the Hebrew language, thought Jewish prayer can be recited in any language.  We have specific prayers for morning (Shacharit), afternoon (Mincha), and evening (Maariv). Each service is filled with a tapestry of blessings, psalms, and readings, meticulously woven together by our sages. Yet, it is within this structure that we discover the boundless opportunities for personal connection and spiritual upliftment.

Prayer serves many functions.  We use it to communicate as a community with God. We use it for requests, for atonement, for gratitude, and for healing.  

I am thrilled to invite you to join us for our summer sermon series on prayer. Our journey will begin this Shabbat with an exploration of why we pray three times a day. Together, we will delve into the origins and significance of this practice, uncovering the spiritual richness embedded within our daily prayers.

In the weeks to come, we will continue to explore various aspects of prayer, each session designed to deepen our understanding and enhance our spiritual lives. I encourage you to participate actively, bringing your questions, reflections, and experiences to our discussions.

May this summer be a time of spiritual renewal and profound connection through the power of prayer. I look forward to embarking on this journey with you.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Bradley Tecktiel