Rabbi's Blog

On the Friday night before MLK Day, our Kabbalat Shabbat had a theme of Racial Justice for Shabbat Tzedek (the Sabbath of Justice). It was also the Torah portion of Shemot, beginning the story of the Exodus with its themes of liberation and freedom. I was very inspired by the Martin Luther King quotations and other words shared by Charlotte King, founder of the Southern Delaware Alliance for Racial Justice (SDARJ). Clara Licata, Board Chair of the SDARJ, was our main speaker for the service, telling us about the history and work of the organization and how to get involved. Later in the weekend, I was honored to offer the benediction at an inauguration brunch hosted by the incoming First Lady of Delaware, Dr. Lauren Meyer. I would like to share the prayer that I gave here: 

On this MLK weekend, we recall the timeless words of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.:

Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, "What are you doing for others?"

 Each of us has a role that we are uniquely able to fulfill in the building of what Dr. King called the Beloved Community.

As we embark on a new era with the leadership of Governor Matt Meyer and all who labor for the good of this state, may we, too, be renewed in purpose and vision. May we support the First Lady Dr. Lauren Meyer in her work to improve healthcare access, lift up the vulnerable, and create opportunities for every individual to thrive.

Just as the lighthouses and lightships on our coast led scores of sailors to a safe harbor, so may Delaware shine to the nation as a beacon of what can be achieved when we come together and work for the common good.  We have gathered on ancestral Lenape land, representing diverse heritages and lineages. In the words of Dr. King:

We may have all come on different ships, but we’re on the same boat now.

May the One who blessed all our ancestors bless us as we sail ahead, together, into a new era for Delaware.  Let today’s hopeful gathering inspire us to go forth with open hearts, determined hands, and the courage to build a better future together with and for all of our neighbors.  Amen.