Six weeks ago, HEA launched the first of several personal stories, captured on video, of some of our congregants. These stories represent the diverse and meaningful ways in which our members connect to HEA. I hope you have had an opportunity to watch them. They are not only beautiful and unique, but they capture what you will be hearing more about this holiday season- there are many pathways that people travel to HEA, ultimately connecting them to one Alliance. While this is the title of our High Holiday giving campaign - “Many Paths. One Alliance.” the concept has never rung more true. More and more, we are hearing from members about the ways in which they have connected to our shul, whether it be from 50 years ago on the west side of Denver to just recently through a new program that we hosted. These stories illuminate the diversity that is created when these journeys converge to create one community.
Modern Hebrew translates a journey made by foot as masa. The Torah uses the word masa to describe the generation-long journey made by the Israelites to the land of Israel. Recalling and reflecting on this part of our history requires that we understand that our individual life journeys are both reflected in and impacted by the larger journeys of our people (and vice versa). Listening to the Pathways’ stories illuminated by this campaign, we are reminded that most journeys are somehow a continuation of those that came before and are shaped in part by those with whom we travel.The power of community is critical both for our individual momentum in life as well as for our communal success.
We are asking each of you, members of our sacred HEA community, to think this holiday season about the path you have walked to arrive at HEA and to please consider making a financial contribution that reflects your connection to our one Alliance. Your path, your story, and your connection matter to us. And your financial gift to HEA allows us to perpetuate and strengthen the important work of the congregation.
Please participate in our HEA Pathways Campaign by making a contribution HEREand sharing your HEA pathway story by emailing James McKeon at james@HEAdenver.org.
By sharing what we believe, about what we care the most, and from what and whom we have learned and grown, we create ripples that are not bound by the laws of nature but are rather galvanized by the unbreakable connection between the past and the future. Thank you for being a valued member of HEA.
Wishing you and your family a meaningful, healthy and peaceful 5783.