It has been a while since we've had a confirmation ceremony at Tifereth Israel but this morning we had the joy of being with Avi Knecht as he became a "confirmand" and led the congregation by davening for us, chanting a haftorah, and giving a d'var Torah. The entire experience at shul was a delight for many reasons. First, congregants of all ages showed up to support Avi and his family on this special Shabbat. Second, Avi demonstrated his commitment to wrestling with Jewish ideas and to taking a leadership role in the congregation. Third, Avi's parents proved that it was okay to have expectations of continued Jewish learning for their son.
I think those who participated in this morning's service will agree that it was a very special Shabbat not only for the Rosenblatt-Knecht family, but for all of us as well. I hope more of our young students will follow in Avi's footsteps by continuing their own Jewish education, perfecting their synagogue skills, and realizing that Jewish learning does not stop at age 13.
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