A Chanukah Message from Rabbi Larry Sernovitz

“Modeh Ani Lefanecha …” I give thanks to you, dear God. These are the words that Jewish tradition teaches us to begin each day with, and in our world, each day is not a given but a true blessing. As a relatively new rabbi in the greater Atlanta Jewish community, the Chanukah season is a bright reminder of the blessings I have in my life. Maybe some of these you share as well. If so, I would love to hear from you so we can share these together.

1. Gratitude for the connections and friendships that I have made and sustained since arriving in Atlanta. You all have made the transition so much easier.

2. Grateful to the Temple Kol Emeth community for welcoming us so warmly to Marietta and the greater Atlanta area. Your care and support mean the world to us, especially because some of you saw our home before we did!

3. Grateful to our parents, who have given us a strong foundation to live a meaningful Jewish life. Through your actions and deeds, we have become the people we are today. We hope we will always continue to make your proud.

4. So thankful for my children: Sam, Daniella and Eden. They are so resilient and managed to deal with the pandemic and moving to Atlanta so beautifully. A special shout to Sam, who became a bar mitzvah during the pandemic. And to Daniella and Eden, who suggested we get a pandemic puppy named Peaches. These beautiful children are my world and make every day so sweet.

5. So incredibly grateful to my wife, Becky, for her huge heart, the love she showers on our family, and for standing by my side as we made the transition to Atlanta. She is my rock and I love her more than I could ever put into words.

6. Grateful to the teachers who have embraced my children and provided a loving environment for them to learn and grow in. A special thanks to The Davis Academy for making sure our daughters could learn in a vibrant and healthy environment.

7. Thankful for my health and the health of my family and community. Truly grateful that my entire family has received the Covid vaccine.

8. Much thanks and appreciation to God for all the blessings that we have in our lives. Each day presents new opportunities to make a difference in the world. For this, I am eternally grateful.

Happy Chanukah to you all!

Rabbi Larry Sernovitz is the senior rabbi at Temple Kol Emeth in Marietta.