The new year has begun. Rosh Hashanah has passed, and we have, of course, crowned God as King over us and the entire universe, thus allowing Him to recreate all of creation from nothing for another year.
In other words, our sages explain that the vitality of each year is new. Each year there is a different Divine force, higher than the previous one, that gives strength and sustenance to the entire universe.
In keeping with this idea, we at Beit Chabad La Plata have undergone renovations. Although the synagogue isn't completely finished, we've begun using it. Like anything new, it takes some getting used to. Now there's more space, the layout is different, the walls have changed, the curtains (of the Aron HaKodesh and the Bimah) have changed, the windows have changed, the air quality has changed...
The most exciting thing is that this is just the beginning of many more changes. If last year was a year of transition, this coming year will be a year of renewal, with more energy, more space, new proposals, and new activities.
Just as a side note, it's interesting that even politicians, in an election year, talk about renewal, each in their own way and for their own interests. It must be because it's a year of genuine renewal... a renewing Divine force that affects and permeates all aspects of creation.
I invite you to experience this new place and be active participants in this renewal.
Gmar Jatimá tová - may the signature [of God] end well,