A Message from Rabbi Bellows

September 14, 2025 /21 Elul 5785 

Dear Beth Am Friends,

This week’s Torah portion, Nitzvaim, is one we also read on Yom Kippur Morning. Its first verse, “Atem nitzavim hayom kulchem—you are standing today all of us, (Deut. 29:9) declares that the covenant isn’t a VIP list; it includes leaders and learners, elders and kids, people of all classes and economic status, genders, ability, and age. 

As we approach the holidays, let’s stand for one another: show up, check in, forgive, begin again. For as our portion continues, “Lo bashamayim hi”—this work isn’t in heaven; it’s right here. 

May we “choose life” (u’vacharta ba-chayim) through small daily acts of kindness, justice, and hope. 

Rabbi Lisa Bellows