Dear Friend,

As we herald the New Year, year 5770, we reflect on the past which indeed was a challenge filled year.  Klal Yisroel, along with the rest of the world,  has suffered great hardships due to the global economic recession.  However, the added financial losses and pains resulting from mankind’s misdemeanours and greed, sadly caused a great Chillul Hashem (desecration of Hashem’s name).

We must take a lesson from all that happened this past year.  Let it be a wake-up call, to examine the ways we behave towards our fellow man.  Do honesty and integrity score high in all of our business dealings?  Are we truthful and upfront in dealing with our fellow man?  Do we give sincere and reliable advice to others?  Let’s take it upon ourselves to make concrete improvements in bein adom lechavairo!  Let’s treat our friends as we would like to be treated by others, thereby sanctifying the name of Hashem amongst the nations of the world. 

Part of welcoming Rosh Hashana this year should be our commitment to the words of the Pasuk “ישראל בני בתוך ונקדשתי‎”,  I shall be sanctified amongst Klal Yisroel”. 

Making honesty and sincerity a part of our daily lives, in our homes, in our businesses and our relationships, will bring the Shechina, the G-dliness of Hashem, into all aspects of our lives. 

Let us emulate Hashem in His honesty and mercy and let us practice such with our fellow man, thus Hashem will no doubt look upon us with mercy and inscribe us for a year filled with love and kindness, health, happiness and much success.

On behalf of all of us at the Vaad, we wish you and your dear families a Kesiva V’chasima Tova.

Rabbi Saul Emanuel

Executive Director