Kevah & Kavanah – Breaking up the routine

This Shabbat marks my first full week back in my congregation since the end of my three month sabbatical.  I am grateful for the time that I had to study, reflect, rest and rejuvenate.  I took the three months to travel around the country visiting other congregations and communities, meeting with clergy, lay people and professional staff.  I observed some of the most innovative and forward thinking congregations not only in the Jewish community but amongst Mormon and Evangelical Christian congregations as well.  For those interested the lessons and observations from my sabbatical studies can be found at