FROM THE RABBI          

My journey to become a rabbi began simply.  While attending High Holy day services and listening to the sermon, I thought to myself, with all the hubris of youth, that I could do that!   I wrestled with this decision for over a month, constantly questioning, and praying for guidance.  Though I had no angel to contend with, as Jacob did before he met Esau and gave him his new name, Israel, it was no less jarring.  Over that month, I came to realize the implications of such a decision, and the demands such a life would bring.  What was most important to me though, was that my heart was fully behind this decision.  Every day during that month, at least once, I would search in my heart for the answer.  Did I really want to be a rabbi?  The answer always came back, “yes!”  As the days passed, and the answer remained the same, my resolve grew, along with my confidence.  By the time the month passed the answer was clear.  Knowing that my heart was behind this decision, it became an effortless decision.   I also came to understand that what was inspiring about such a prospect were the people I could help, the joy I could bring, and the comfort I could share. 
In Kabbalistic literature the relationship between Jews and the Sabbath is often depicted as a marriage or marriage ceremony.  Similarly, the creation of a relationship between a congregation and its rabbi may be comparable.  Mutual respect, shared values and a multitude of reasons have guided us to join our respective paths.    
As I become part of the Temple B’nai B’rith community I look forward to what lies before us.  The Transition Team you created is already helping to ensure that all of our needs continue to be met.  The Temple leadership has been both accessible and helpful, in ensuring that upon my official arrival we will have already begun our work together as a team.  Your entire community has already made my family and I feel at home.  We are so excited for the “meet and greets” where we hope to have the opportunity to meet all of you. 
Please feel free to stop by my office any time, or call.  I am looking forward to meeting all of you and continuing to build and enrich our budding relationship.

-Rabbi Roger A. Lerner