Voices

Bylined opinion and news columns published by United Hebrew Congregation Terre Haute.

During Adar, remember that Walter Sommers brought joy to all who encountered him

By Student Rabbi Matt Derrenbacher
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The Hebrew month of Adar is supposed to be an incredibly joyous time. Our sages teach us that as the month of Adar begins, no matter how we may be feeling about life, we are to increase our joy.

But what happens when the commandment to be joyous meets the reality of loss, sorrow and pain? On Feb. 17, our community and our world lost an absolute tzadik, Walter Sommers.

Walter was one of those rare humans who loved everyone. It didn’t matter who you were or where you came from, Walter wanted to take the time to get to know you and be your friend.

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Walter Sommers welcomed Shabbat at the Temple, among the numberless generations

By Betsy Frank
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I don’t always plan which readings to include before I lead Shabbat services.

Normally, I just pick a reading at the last moment during the service. But I’m frequently amazed that the reading I pick seems so pertinent to the day.

During a recent service, right after we lit the Shabbat candles, I selected the reading at the top of Page 124 in Mishkan Tefilah.

As I read this unplanned reading, I got a lump in my throat. A beloved member of the numberless generations had just passed away — Walter Sommers.

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Sisterhood plans March 15 lunch outing; collects new clothes and bedding for foster children

By Patty Lewis
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As the weather slowly begins to warm up, Sisterhood is picking up momentum with new activities this spring.

We’ll meet for lunch at 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 15, at Delish Cafe, 8775 Wabash Ave. in Terre Haute. Members will share some good food and discuss activities and projects for 2022.

Let me know if you plan to attend so I can make reservations!

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UHC takes climate action, plans special virtual event January 23 with The Shalom Center

By Betsy Frank
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Both Rosh Hashanah and secular New Year tradition call on us to make changes in our personal and collective behavior.

Our congregation has taken a step toward improvement by getting involved with Creation Care Partners, an Indiana interfaith organization dedicated to helping individuals and congregations ameliorate climate change.

United Hebrew Congregation will co-sponsor a virtual event at 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 23, as Rabbi Arthur Waskow, founder and director of The Shalom Center and a pioneer in eco-Judaism, will speak on “Confronting the Climate Crisis: Despair or Sacred Action?”

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