A Message from Rabbi Bellows

August 9, 2026/26 Av 5786

Dear Friends,

“Tzedek, tzedek tirdof—Justice, justice shall you pursue.” (Deuteronomy 16:20)

In this week’s Torah portion, Shoftim, we hear one of Judaism’s most enduring calls: “Justice, justice shall you pursue.”The Torah reminds us that justice is not an abstract ideal—it is something we actively build together through our words, our actions, and our participation in civic life.

As a congregation, we answer that call by partnering with the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism for our nonpartisan Get Out the Vote postcard campaign.

By writing postcards encouraging eligible voters to participate in our democracy, we help ensure that every voice has the opportunity to be heard.

Join us at one of our upcoming postcard writing parties. Together, we can live out the values of Shoftim and pursue justice—one postcard, one voter, and one act of civic engagement at a time.

If you haven’t already, please take a moment to renew your membership this week. Your commitment helps sustain our community, and I look forward to sharing another meaningful year of learning, worship, celebration, and connection with you.

May we continue to go from strength to strength!

Rabbi Lisa Bellows