Yishar koach. Finally, finally, proper words from the pulpit about the importance of Torah observance. Not just mitzvot bein adam lachavero, but even mitzvot bein adam lamakom!
We were actually told that Jews have to be shomrei shabbat.
And, icing on the cake--it's wrong to pretend that Torah observance is optional, as other "movements" have done.
This is a moment we can all be proud of. And it comes on the second to last day of the year, so we might say that deficiencies are being rectified right before Rosh Hashana, as they should be.
Now, I'm not suggesting that this signals a sea change in Roslyn Synagogue policy. But, as they say, "baby steps," kol hahatchalot kashot, eventually we will get there.
More importantly, every positive statement is beneficial. One good speech like this can dispel an enormous amount of misinformation that exists in the minds of the congregants. This is a perfect example of how to teach Torah honestly and openly, without faking it, without whitewashing it nor beating around the bush. And no one walked out in a huff, no one hates the Rabbi, no one hates the Synagogue, no one hates Torah as a result. They all learned something and they're better off for it.
Ketiva vachatima tova!
