During this busy season, we Jewish women seem to always be preparing. We go from preparing for Shabbat to preparing for Yom Tov. But the most important preparation of the season for the women—young and old, of our Elizabeth/Hillside Adath Israel community—is the preparation that comes from our own reflection through the guidance of our Torah. With that mission in mind, the Adath Israel youth department hosted an informative shiur on teshuva for women of all ages, accompanied by a dairy buffet. The shiur was given by Emma Katz, the new rebbetzin of Anshe Chesed in Linden, who has also recently joined the Bruriah middle school faculty.

In her well-developed and organized presentation, Katz highlighted the approach to teshuva of Rav Soloveitchik—that true teshuva is an opportunity for growth and transformation within our relationship with Hashem rather than just an obligation to atone for our sins. She highlighted many examples of positive growth steps we might consider as a result—steps that can have a profound impact not only for Yom Kippur, but well beyond.

It was an inspiring night made all the more special by women connecting once again in-person, especially with delicious food!

Thank you to Mrs. Katz for all of the stimulating food for thought. Thank you to Adath Israel and the youth department for all of these incredible programs, and to all of our sponsors. May we all experience a gmar chatima tova!