Rabbi Heller's Blog

Welcome guest writer Valerie Chambers, B'nai Torah's Director of Community Connections.

As the Director of Community Connections, my goal is to work with each of y’all individually to build a greater community. Some of you have already received an email or a phone call from me wanting to learn more about you, your experiences and your stories (and if you haven’t, you’ll hear from me soon!). I will be reaching out to get a better understanding of the B’nai Torah community as a whole, which will inform my work to build an organized unit. Since I've started, I've seen people come together to support Israel, have fun seders and events, while also rallying around newcomers and people in mourning as a community of belonging. 

This week’s Torah portion, Bamidbar, which means "in the wilderness" or "desert," serves as a backdrop for the formation of the Israelite community into a cohesive unit. In the opening chapters, God instructs Moses to take a census of his people.  The counting of the Israelites by tribe highlights the importance of everyone within the community. Each person has a unique role and contribution to make, and their inclusion in the census reflects their inherent value. As someone passionate about community connections, I find profound significance in this act of counting and organizing. It speaks to the recognition of everyone’s unique worth and contribution within the community. Just as the Israelites were counted and valued, we too must strive to ensure that every member of our community feels seen, heard, and included. 

The arrangement of the tribes around the Tabernacle in a specific order carries symbolic meaning. This organization suggests a structured community where each tribe has its place, yet all are oriented towards a central purpose—the worship of God. This arrangement focuses on the importance of communal spaces and shared rituals in promoting a sense of unity and belonging among diverse individuals. 

When looking at “in the wilderness” setting of Bamidbar, it also provides a comparison for the journey of building communities. Like the Israelites wandering through the desert, communities often face challenges and uncertainties. Yet, it is precisely in these wilderness moments that connections are tested and strengthened. Just like the Israelites relied on each other for support and survival, members of a community draw strength from their connections with one another during difficult times. 

Comparing the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and our own communal experiences can inspire reflection on the importance of resilience, cooperation, and mutual support. Just as the Israelites ultimately reached the Promised Land through their collective efforts, so too can communities overcome obstacles and thrive when they are united in purpose and solidarity. 

Bamidbar reminds us of the importance of real-world community connections. Whether it's through shared rituals, acts of kindness, or simply being present for one another in times of need, fostering strong community bonds remains essential for building resilient, supportive, and flourishing communities. I hope that together we can create meaningful experiences and ways for you to find or deepen your connection to our community. Never hesitate to call if you have ideas, questions, or want to help.  We’re always looking for people to join our membership and engagement committees, ushers/greeters, and community organizers, and I want to hear from all of you. 

You can reach out to me at vchambers@bnaitorah.org or call the office at 404-257-0537.

Shabbat Shalom