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Dear Friends,

Three different times in the Torah, we encounter passages about the observance of a Sabbatical year, the commandment to let the land lay fallow every seventh year. For thousands of years, there has been an understanding that for the land to maintain its productivity, allowing time for it to rejuvenate is essential. For similar reasons, over time the concept of a sabbatical was extended to include tenured professors and clergy as an opportunity for renewal, study, recreation, travel… a time to focus on health of body and mind. I have been truly enriched by the sabbatical leave Temple Sinai lay leadership has periodically afforded me through the years, and I am grateful to once again have this opportunity beginning next month.

Please note that I will be away from the office on sabbatical leave from Sunday, February 11 through Monday, April 8 (though, of course, I look forward to returning for the Chai Celebration honoring Rabbi Brad Levenberg’s 18 years at Sinai the weekend of March 22-23!). To realize its full potential as a time for personal and spiritual replenishment, these two months will be marked by a complete respite from congregational responsibilities. As such, I will not be checking email or voicemail during this two-month period. Thus, if there is a matter pending with which I am involved or for which my attention is needed, please be sure to contact me by Friday, February 9.  

From February 11 to April 8, all questions concerning my personal schedule should be directed to Rachel DeLine (rdeline@templesinaiatlanta.org), and any matters requiring clergy attention should be directed to Brad, Sam, and Beth. I am immeasurably grateful to the four of them as well as to our entire staff for their partnership and for making it possible to have this time away. Thank you as well to our President Robert Sinsheimer and our officers and board for this invaluable gift of time.

Wishing you all the blessings of good health and much-needed peace in the months ahead –

Rabbi Ron Segal