Elul Messages

This is the archive of the clergy's weekly messages during the month of Elul
to help the congregation prepare for the High Holy Days.

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2024 Elul Messages • lessons for the New Year from four of the major prayers in the High Holy Day liturgy
Week 1: Hin'ni 
Week 2: Kol Nidre 
Week 3: Unetaneh Tokef 
Week 4: Avinu Malkeinu

2023 Elul Messages • inspired by Mussar: Jewish teachings about deepening our values through action
Week 1: Showing Up in the Present
Week 2: Love of Kindness
Week 3: Gratitude
Week 4: Accepting Who We Are

2022 Elul Messages • our fourth series of Elul messages to help with the inner preparation before the High Holy Days
Week 1: Slow Down for Elul
Week 2: Play like you practice, practice like you play. 
Week 3: Facing the Unknown
Week 4: Jewish Paradoxes

2021 Elul Messages • introducing "Living Our Values," the ethical principles by which we strive to be inclusive and welcoming
Week 1: Made in the Image of God
Week 2: Paying Attention 
Week 3: Being Welcoming 
Week 4: Loving Your Neighbor

2020 Elul Messages • our second series of Elul messages to help with the inner preparation before the High Holy Days
Week 1: Capacity 
Week 2: Connection 
Week 3: Perspective & Invitation to S'lichot 
Week 4: Acknowledging the Hungers Within Us

2019 Elul Messages • our first series of Elul messages to help with the inner preparation before the High Holy Days
Week 1: Introduction to Elul and the Start of Real Change
Week 2: Looking Inward: Contemplation and Mindfulness 
Week 3: Finding Forgiveness Now 
Week 4: The Importance of Solitude 
Week 5: What Now? The 10 Days of Repentance