Gerry's 92nd + Post Mitzvah Day Musings
This past weekend was very busy in the annals of Highgate Shul.
On Shabbos we celebrated Gerry Bloom's 92nd birthday. Gerry is one of the stars of our community - as he displayed in his speech at the kiddush! Duncan mentioned that Gerry has been a member for 62 years and was a board member for 36. Having been a part of this Community for less than 92 days (89 to be precise), I feel a little humbled! We wish him many more years in good health and all look forward to his next birthday.
Following on from that, Mitzvah Day was a tremendous success. It was inspiring to see so many people helping to wrap gifts for terminally ill children (although my wrapping skills were openly challenged), baking cakes and sorting items for the Norwood shops. Of course, there were games of table tennis and table football to keep everyone entertained.
I spoke to the older group about the importance of Chesed within the framework of community life. Chesed is defined as selfless, active loving-kindness to promote the welfare of our fellow-man, and as such is a foundation upon which society rests (see Ethics of the Fathers 1:2).
Special thanks to Ruth for organising the event. Thanks also to Sara, Caroline, Hannah, Emmety and Nick for their efforts. For more details about Mitzvah Day, please see their website for more info - http://www.mitzvahday.org.uk/. Keep checking the photos pages for the Highgate Youth Club photos (as of writing they are yet to be posted).
This website also has a photos page - so feel free to check that out too.
To wrap up the weekend, we hosted a cocktail party for new and potential members - which I believe was enjoyed by all. Jonathan spoke about what the community has to offer and if anyone wants more details about this or any future events, please contact the office.
NB This is a final reminder about the communal Friday night dinner on the 28th November. Nigel will speak on the topic "Does crime pay?" We will also have a youth leader who will entertain the children during the talk. There are only a few spaces remaining so please book ASAP.
Have a great week.
PS I have just been informed that this Shabbat sees the return of the Cholent Kiddush (sounds like a horror story!). See you there.
Comments