Terri Bonoff's Rosh Hashanah Message for 2024

This year we gather with Israel’s safety and security in peril, antisemitism at my lifetime high and a younger generation whose allegiance to Judaism and Israel appears frayed. Yet, Rosh Hashanah continues to be a rallying cry for Jews worldwide to gather and express the unity that transcends all discord. I do not believe that has changed. The pull to join together is passed on from generation to generation—L’Dor Vador. We thank all who came before us for that, and pledge to continue this tradition.

I reflect on my earliest holiday memories at Temple Israel in Minneapolis. Our parents must have been worried we wouldn’t be quiet because they took us up to the balcony. Looking over the railing at a packed sanctuary below, and up at the ornate ceiling marked with a brushed steel Star of David, squished between my brothers and my cousins, I was in awe. The years of returning to that sanctuary mark time, life changes, births and deaths. My Dad led the Usher Corps. Last year was the first without him. Sad. Our kids are spread afar and don’t always make it back for the holidays. Now I include the sense of sadness that comes from having loved ones passed and others missed, hopes and dreams dashed and yet also the pride and joy of living life with meaning and purpose, surrounded by family and friends that fill my heart with love and wonder.

We will live with heightened security this year, fear of what lies in store for Israel and Jews everywhere but stay strong in understanding just how important our prayers of hope and redemption are to the future of the Jewish people. This is not the first time a Rosh Hashanah will include these challenges. It is the most serious that I have experienced. The prayer I have for the next hundred years, is the continuation of community, peace, Jewish pride and a joyful Israel. L’Dor V’Dor.

Terri Bonoff is the chief executive officer of Jewish Family & Career Services.