On Tuesday night, February 15th we have invited Rabbi Shmuely Boteach to speak to our community. The event is open to the public free of charge. Rabbi Boteach is a world famous rabbi who speaks throughout communities, Jewish and non-Jewish alike. He is seen on television and his columns appear in newspapers and magazines read by the masses.
You may have seen him on television with Oprah Winfrey or on CNN debating with political pundits. You may have read one of his books, such as Kosher Sex, a book whose authorship contributed to his being called “Dr. Ruth with a yarmulke.” You may not even know that he is a rabbi, since so many refer to him by his first name, simply calling him “Shmuely.”
This is a great opportunity for our shul! Rabbi Boteach is a dynamic speaker—he is engaging, funny, and well-educated. He speaks not only to Jewish audiences, but to everyone. He has created another channel for popular Jewish voices to be heard. I have never met our guest. I have read his articles and followed some of his appearances on television. I hope you will take the next few weeks to familiarize yourself with some of his works: http://www.shmuley.com/. Like most of you, there are some things that he says and writes that I agree with, and others that I don’t. Regardless of this, we should all be excited to have such a guest in our midst.
At the end of the day, Shmuely Boteach cares about Judaism. He is passionate about Jews and being Jewish. He may rub shoulders with celebrities and stars, but he is down to earth and will keep your attention during his time with us. We will have an opportunity to ask questions of him and to respond to some of the topics he brings to discuss.
I hope that you will all come and support our shul by attending that night. Attending does not mean you endorse everything the speaker says. Raise your hand and challenge the speaker if you wish. Ask questions of your friends. But don’t skip this chance simply because you don’t like what he has to say.
We can all learn from one another. We can strengthen our convictions. And we can have a fun night together as well.
Please pass along the invitation to your friends and families. We hope to have a packed room on February 15th.
I look forward to seeing you this Shabbat.
Shabbat Shalom.
