LOVING KINDNESS

Performing deeds of loving kindness (chesed) is a main vehicle for transforming a synagogue into a holy community (kehilla k’dosha).

What is chesed?  Giving of oneself to others without consideration for personal gain.  Tending to the dead is the purest form of chesed because one cannot expect to be repaid by the recipient.

Sutton Place Synagogue strives to be a sacred community.  And we certainly succeeded on Wednesday, February 27.  That’s the day we conducted the funeral for Gloria Smith at the synagogue.  It was very important to Gloria, a long time member of the board and a patron, that her funeral be conducted by me at the synagogue.

Unfortunately, Gloria had no friends or relatives to attend the service.  Upon learning of this I asked through email, some phone calls, personal solicitation and announcement at the Shabbat Service for congregants to attend.

The response was overwhelming.  So many came to give honor to Gloria and her life, even many who had never met her. What a beautiful tribute.

Following the service, a congregant who wishes to be anonymous, sent me this email:

     “I received your letter re: Gloria Smith’s funeral.  It felt very fulfilling
      and important to be there.  My ----- and friend felt the same way.
      So thank you.

     Also, I wanted you to know that that act has inspired me to be more
     aware of the everyday Mitzvot that I do or can perform and that I have
     been extending myself to do more good, no matter how large or small.”

I responded:

     “Thanks.  It’s amazing how many good deeds one can perform in a
      day, if alert to the possibilities.  Shabbat shalom.

Here is another beautiful email I just received.  This writer, too, wishes to remain
anonymous. 

     “I was deeply moved by the congregation’s profound compassion
     and warm tribute to Gloria Smith. In numerous instances,
     consistently, I have found that Sutton Place Synagogue genuinely
     embraces the multi-facet expressions of humanity and fosters a
     deep commitment to Judaism.  It is a joy to watch such dedicated
     staff, lay leaders and members.

     And ----- and I are grateful to have discovered this precious gem
     in the center of Manhattan and be enveloped by its warmth.  You
     truly shepherd an exceptional community.”

Through deeds of caring, we make our synagogue a holy community and add a sacred dimension to our personal living.  There are so many opportunities.  Just grab them.

Rabbi Allan Schranz