I am overwhelmingly excited and grateful to be working with Kehillath Israel beginning after the Yamim Nora’im in October as Manhig Ruchani (מנהיג רוחני)/Director of Musical Engagement. The path to Jewish spirituality and deeper meaning in prayer and community—like my own journey—is neither direct nor straightforward. Through my own experiences and deep yearning for meaning behind our traditions and rituals, I hope to instill that level of curiosity and commitment to sincerity in our communal and personal prayer life right here at KI. As Rabbi Nachman said: “A holy melody can bring you to the level of prophecy. Music is the foundation of true attachment to God”. (Likutey Moharan I, 3). We find within prayer, and more specifically, the music of prayer– a place for all of us to come together, a strengthening of new pathways for connection, empathy for one another, and as result, a deeper understanding of ourselves, our Jewish traditions, and our current spiritual needs.
For me, finding sincerity in my tefilah experience has not been an easy task. I have faced challenges in exploring new and exciting melodies through music while maintaining the timeless melodies of our sacred spaces. To me, the straddling of these two worlds—both the traditional and explorative—can feel daunting, uncertain, and dare I say uncomfortable. But it is this very tight rope walk that has been the bedrock of our Judaism for thousands of years.
Throughout my whole life, I have fought and struggled tirelessly in creating a Jewish practice for me that is both timeless and grounded, yet relevant and fresh. And now, here I am, Hineni. And I am ready to embrace this challenge with the greater community of Kehillath Israel. So come join me, as we search for truth in sincerity, in prayer, in our traditions, and in discovery anew, together.
Ken Yehi Ratzon, and may it be God’s will.
Ariel
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