I recently returned from a weekend with my colleagues and friends from the 2024 NAORRR Convention (National Association of Reform Retired Rabbis).
When I walked into the ballroom at the Marriott on the first night of the event, I saw faces I remembered, but the hair colors had changed, or perhaps some hair was missing. And thus, I asked myself, “How has time passed so instantly?”
Once the young leaders of our synagogues, we suddenly became older but perhaps more refined with wisdom atop our shoulders from lifelong journeys and experiences. As we recognized, while our youthful days were behind us, this weekend rekindled our young souls in song, banter, and connection.
The convention, along with great food, dancing, and music, was filled with thoughtful and insightful workshops and conversations. We retired rabbis shared dialogue from our concern about the war in Israel to the challenges we face as a Jewish community on American soil. Over coffee and tea, we delighted in stories and photographs of our families and loved ones while embracing the solace of those who lost a spouse or relative. Above all topics shared, we spoke on ways to offer hope, guidance, and support to our community despite our retired status.
As this convention was in Boca Raton, I was honored that Rabbi Dan Levin spoke. He highlighted the integrity of reproductive rights and how Temple Beth El has been a chief synagogue in our response to the constitutional amendment initiative with the support of our members and community friends. Rabbi Levin’s words inspired everyone while instilling the importance Jewish people should uphold as taught by our Torah’s values.
In addition to Rabbi Levin’s attendance, our very own Tracey Labgold, a beautiful soul, addressed the rabbis on LGBTQ+ and gender rights. As rabbis, it must remain our priority, not only in society but in our Jewish subset, to propel compassion and understanding while supporting anyone who faces discrimination due to their gender or orientation. Tracey’s words were a testament to the awareness and rights of all people and how senseless hate perpetuates rapidly through misjudgment or misunderstanding. Together, we must alter this narrative and reinforce acts of kindness, for in the end, each human is a human with a heart and a soul.
When I consider any congregant or person faced with discrimination coupled with the uprise of antisemitism, we must ask ourselves, how can we put words into action to support thy neighbor? May this be an inquiry we all consider when looking to help another. When we let kindness lead over hate and judgment, greatness becomes possible for all.
As the weekend progressed, other workshops addressed our current-day rigors and treasures as Jews and seniors while making light of our AARP memberships. Together, we advocated and championed the integrity of our Jewish faith while discussing the progression of American Judaism, our relationship with G-d, and the hidden joys in biblical scripture. From analyzing the Torah to available fitness and chair yoga classes, I exercised my mind and memory in conversational delight with rabbis worldwide, discussing our roles and continued life missions as retired rabbis. One item we all commenced was to remain a supportively strong voice to our communities in such fragile times.
For the beautiful weekend, it was, an abundance of gratitude must be given to Gary and Joanie Glickstein. You are remarkable leaders and talents for producing a spectacular convention. For that, I thank you. To Jack Luxembourg and his Program Committee, thank you for your endless efforts and planning a weekend filled with inspirational and challenging topics that are ever integral in today’s times.
From schmoozing with colleagues to sharing a dance with many, I am grateful to every person behind NAORR for making the convention possible. May all the insight and wisdom gained by all be shared with family, friends, congregants, and anyone looking for blessings and hope.
To any retired rabbi reading this, remember that the world and the Jewish community still need our voice, now more than ever. Yes, we may be retired, but once a rabbi, always a rabbi. As my colleague stated, “We are not expired, only retired.”
Rabbi Merle E. Singer | Words with Merle 