Rabbi Adam Starr’s 2021 Rosh Hashanah Message

The great Rav Kook writes that the blowing of the shofar during the month of Elul in anticipation of Rosh Hashanah is a preparation for the Teshuva (Repentance) of the community, because it (the shofar) is an instrument that brings all the camps together. In other words, the preparation for Teshuva is that we all come together binding as a community before God. The Jewish people are composed of different camps with different practices and perspectives. One of our tasks during this time is to remember that we are all connected and united as a people, regardless of what we do or do not have on our head.

I hope we can all take a moment to reflect on something you admire about a group other than your own, that you can learn and grow from. I have always been proud of our Atlanta Jewish community for our strength of respect and diversity. I hope as the Shofar is sounded this Rosh Hashanah, that wherever we may physically be this year, that we can all come a little closer.

Shana Tova!

Adam Starr is the rabbi at Congregation Ohr HaTorah in Toco Hills where he has served since 2008.