Notes from Cantor Avima

What makes a synagogue or school or organization work? This week's parshah, Vayakhel, describes the construction of the Mishkan (The Tabernacle) that the Israelites carried with them throughout their travels in the wilderness. The people are all asked to contribute all kinds of building materials: precious metals, linen, wool, ram and dolphin skins, oils, precious stones. However, one small phrase stands out to me. The words "And all of you who are skilled come and make all that the Lord has commanded." The Hebrew phrase which is translated as "skilled" is חכם לב "chacham lev" which literally means wise of heart. I love that phrase because it is not just describing skill of brains or hands,  but it tells us that our heart is critical to developing skill. This work had to be a labor of love and executed by those who take pride in their craftmanship and do the work with love. 

We have many such members, however I am thinking now of the teachers in our Religious School. One teacher who has worked very hard to make sure all of our students get the attention they deserve so they can succeed is our very own Barbara Levinson. Barbara is a member and a past president created and has been at the helm of our Mark Dunn Mercaz Learning Center for two years.  Morah Nitzah, as she is referred to by her students lovingly goes the extra mile for every one of her students. She gives of her time generously so that any student who is struggling due to any reason: whether they have learning,  emotional or behavioral challenges or maybe came to our school as a "late starter" and need some catch up. 

On Saturday night, March 30 there will be a fund raiser for the Mark Dunn Special Needs Fund. It will be a phenomenal evening featuring a musical impressionist. The money raised will allow us to continue the work of the Mercaz. This is what makes us a community. We contribute and people such as Morah Nitzah serve with their "wisdom of heart".  Please go the website and register!