Join Interfaith Discussion on Forgiveness on Yom Kippur Afternoon

October 4, 2019 in Rabbi Greg Harris

There was a wonderful feeling throughout Beth El during Rosh Hashana. People reconnected with each other, reflected on the past year and hopefully gained new clarity on issues or struggles they may be facing. We prayed together, learned together and sang together. Our community’s vibrancy was felt.

Next week is Yom Kippur and we will come together again.  From the sounds of Kol Nidre Tuesday evening to the final shofar blast Wednesday night (bring your shofar to join together), there is tremendous opportunity to think about how we will be different in the year ahead. Now that we have experienced the past year (5779), how can we be a better version of ourselves in 5780?

With this in mind, we have refreshed the afternoon Yom Kippur discussion session. Taking place at both Beth El and Bindeman, the rabbis will be joined by interfaith partners to address the topic titled “Interfaith Reflections on Forgiveness.”

Joining Rabbi Harris at Beth El will be Rev. Sari Ateek pastor at St. John’s Episcopal Church as its rector in the fall of 2010. A Palestinian Christian, born and raised in Israel/Palestine, and the son of an Episcopal priest, Sari brings a rich experience of faith and life to his ministry.

Joining Rabbi Werbin at Bindeman will be Monsignor Edward Filardi from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church where he was assigned in 2009. Born in Columbia, MD, he has served churches across the region. Additionally, Imam Dr. Tarek Elgawhary from the Islamic Community Center of Potomac will join the discussion with Rabbi Werbin.

We hope you will join these conversations with our neighbors. We know it will be thought provoking and a new way to stimulate our introspection during this High Holiday season.

G’mar Chatima Tova.