Each and every day, we recite the Amidah and invoke the connection to our ancestors. Between each ancestor, we see the word Elohei, God of.

The Rabbis ask, ״Why is the word Elohei found in between each ancestor? Can it not simply say Elohei, and it will be one God for all?” The answer: each human being has a separate relationship with the Divine, and yet, we are all connected to the one and only God.

We read in our parsha of the purchase of the Cave of our Patriarchs and Matriarchs. If you have had the opportunity to stand in that place, you feel a deep spiritual connection as a link in the generations and recognize the obligation to play our part in the story.

This week, we will learn from two amazing people who lead us in this way.

CNN Journalist Bianna Golodryga will join us at Shabbat services tomorrow to launch her new book Don’t Feed The Lion, which is about how parents and children can speak to each other about antisemitism. Bianna has led the way in media after October 7th, telling the stories of hostages and in a most powerful way. On Thursday, we will welcome Omer Shem Tov, a released hostage, to hear his story first hand. The Flesh Family Sinai Temple Israel Center is honored to convene these international conversations right here at Sinai Temple. Come and join us, be part of the story to build the Jewish future, and add that word Elohei, God of, to each of us individually.