I write with exciting news as we enter the summer months. KI is thrilled to welcome Rabbi Emma Kippley-Ogman as our new Assistant Rabbi beginning tomorrow, after a richly-deserved month away during which she received her rabbinic ordination at a glorious ceremony in the presence of her family and many of her KI friends. I hope you’ll consider coming to one of two “Coffee with the Rabbi” introduction sessions (Sunday, July 11 at 9:00 am, and Wednesday, July 14 at 7:30 pm) where you will have an opportunity to briefly learn with Rabbi Kippley-Ogman and to share with her that which is important to you. She very much looks forward to meeting you!
The past year has seen tremendous achievements for all of us at KI. We successfully adopted a new siddur, welcomed a new Executive Director, established new governance, launched Friday night KICKS services, Hesed initiatives, and Israel Affairs energies, while strengthening our Schools and daily learning opportunities. Volunteerism soared this year as this past Sunday’s remarkable Thank You Picnic demonstrated, honoring more than 200 members actively engaged in building a stronger KI. I want to specifically thank Scott Plotkin our outgoing President and Jason Skolnick our new President for their uncommon devotion, wisdom, and passion that inspires me anew each and every day.
Finally, as you may recall, last year my family and I enjoyed a couple of months in Israel that helped us renew our spirits. This summer we will be traveling, once again, to Israel from the last week of July until the end of August (July 26-Aug. 27) with a very similar purpose in mind. I am excited about the opportunity to continue to refurnish my inner-life and to share the fruits of my experiences with you this fall.
During this summer’s stay in Israel, KI will be well-served by our outstanding team of senior professionals, including Rabbi Kippley-Ogman, Jennifer Rudin, Scott Allen, Ellen Band, Carol Killian, and with the additional, highly valued, support of Rabbi Joseph Schultz. One month from now you’ll be hearing about the promising new ways we as a community look forward to preparing for and celebrating this fall’s High Holidays.
I look forward to seeing you all at KI throughout this month of July and to greeting you upon our return from Israel on Shabbat of August 28th and the following day at a special picnic that you’ll be hearing about.
May your summer prove healthy, relaxing, and fulfilling.
Rabbi William Hamilton
