When we celebrate Shabbat together it’s always special but on May 14th Shabbat at Temple Beth Am was extraordinary. That evening the congregation gathered together and celebrated the ten year anniversary of Rabbi Alon’s ordination, Rabbi’s 40th birthday, and Rabbi Alon and Gali becoming US citizens. Each of those events on their own would have made for a special Shabbat but having them all come together made the evening even more unique. Gali gave a heartwarming and emotional sermon and let us into their lives by sharing what becoming a citizen meant. She was able to make us laugh and cry as she compared their journey to that week’s Torah portion. Cantor Debbie Stein came in from East Hampton to be there for her friends to help them celebrate these momentous occasions. Along with Cantor B she sang a special blessing for Rabbi that was the same blessing that she sang for him in East Hampton ten years ago. It was meaningful and beautiful. The entire night was made up of small moments that made me so proud to be a part of this congregation. One comment that struck me was when Alon said something about that the best place to celebrate was with the people who mattered the most, friends, family and our congregation.

I felt privileged to be able to share their special evening with them. It’s no secret that I think Alon and Gali are special people. It was only fitting that this night should be as special as they are.