Rosh HaShana Greeting

As we approach Rosh HaShana this year, we will once again say the words “Hayom harat olam – Today is the birth of the world”.  It’s a powerful statement that reminds us that all of creation renews itself each year on this day. It’s a moment to look back on the world we lived through this past year, and to look forward to a new world full of possibility.

On Princeton’s campus, like so many others around the country, it was a year of polarizing tension, rhetoric, and concern, even as we affirmed our strength and Jewish joy every single day at the CJL. We provided our students with a loving community, fun social activities, inspiring learning opportunities, meaningful religious experiences, and identity formation to be their best Jewish selves on campus. I worked closely with the university to address antisemitism by leading campus-wide workshops and serving on the newly-formed Jewish Experience Working Group. At CJL we are committed to continuing all of these efforts to support our Jewish students in the coming year.

Each day here at the CJL, we see in the students’ eyes and in their spirit a drive to lead and to create a bright future for our people and our world. Rosh HaShana is a reminder of the light and hope that Judaism constantly injects into our lives. As our students return to a new year on campus, they are bringing that light and spirit of renewal, hope, and strength to the CJL.

Wishing you and your families a Shana Tova u’Metuka, a Happy and Sweet New Year!