One day, Honi the Circle Maker was walking on the road and saw a man planting a carob tree. Honi asked the man, "How long will it take for this tree to bear fruit?"

The man replied, "Seventy years."

Honi then asked the man, "And do you think you will live another seventy years and eat the fruit of this tree?"

The man answered, "Perhaps not. However, when I was born into this world, I found many carob trees planted by my father and grandfather. Just as they planted trees for me, I am planting trees for my children and grandchildren so they will be able to eat the fruit of these trees."

Or Chadash is planting and building for its future generations.  This past week Or Chadash celebrated two events creating a legacy for the future.

On a snowy Thursday morning, our sanctuary chairs arrived.  These chairs complete the sanctuary renovation envisioned by members of Or Chadash for almost two decades and begun during the summer of 2009.  The seeds for these chairs were planted many years ago, by the leaders of our synagogue. We now have beautiful, comfortable, detachable, seats with arms--complete with prayerbook holders.   We appreciate the generosity of the donors of these chairs today.   The plaques that will be affixed on the chairs recognize family and honor friends who are dear to our congregants.   

The second event, our annual planting of a tree in celebration of Tu B'shevat, provides beauty for our congregation to enjoy now and for future generations as well.

Or Chadash continues to move forward with its vision.  Our strategic planning committee is currently laying the groundwork for our five year plan, and we look forward to sharing these dreams and visions with you.  

Shalom,

Rabbi Joseph M. Forman