Chattanooga Community Reflects on Rosh Hashanah Amid Global Turmoil
Chattanooga, TN – As the Jewish community in Chattanooga gathered this past Thursday for Rosh Hashanah, a holiday marking the Jewish New Year, reflections on the past year were prevalent among attendees. Vickie Lewis, a dedicated member of the Mizpah Congregation and a past president, shared her thoughts during a drive to the evening service. For Vickie, the themes of infinity, God, and her Jewish identity are both profound and personal.
While driving, she recounted a moment from the past year that stood out: buying a pizza for a homeless man she encountered on the street. “That was cool,” she said, noting how, in earlier years as a school teacher, even such a small expense would have felt significant. Acts of kindness like these echo the Jewish values of tikkun olam, or healing the world, which are emphasized during this meaningful season.
Hope and Reflection
During the Rosh Hashanah service, Rabbi Craig Lewis (not related to Vickie) took a moment to address the congregation about the challenge of striking the right tone for the holiday this year. He referenced a powerful message from a freed hostage: “We will dance again.” While Chattanooga has remained relatively peaceful amidst the rising tensions in the Middle East, Rabbi Lewis expressed concern about the resurgence of antisemitism and the tragic hostage situation affecting many families.
This year’s observance is particularly poignant, as it falls close to the anniversary of Hamas’s surprise attack on Israel on October 7, which ignited a brutal conflict, thereby overshadowing the holiday celebrations. “My struggle is to set the right tone for the holiday,” he shared, emphasizing a desire for peace and sanity in the world and within the community.
Service Highlights
The atmosphere in the sanctuary was one of unity and contemplation. Attendees included regulars, newcomers, and even those not of the Jewish faith. One such individual, Dave Elliot, found himself in attendance while waiting for his girlfriend’s choir to perform. He shared that he hoped for a more peaceful world in the year ahead, a sentiment echoed throughout the gathering.
As the service commenced, Rabbi Lewis encouraged his congregation to embrace the spirit of Rosh Hashanah, which celebrates renewal and reflection. The service was filled with music, prayers, and moments of collective introspection, combining Hebrew prayers with English translations, bringing a sense of familiarity and comfort to all involved.
The rabbi reminded everyone that while he presides over the service, the stage, or “bema,” is a place for all to share their voices. He called upon attendees to make the world their own stage, inviting them to live out their Jewish identity with pride.
Community Connections
After the service, the congregation gathered for an oneg, a time to socialize and share food. It was a space where stories, laughter, and fellowship could flourish. One member, Marissa Street, who teaches Hebrew and has aspirations of becoming a rabbi, expressed the mixed feelings of joy and remembrance during this time. She and fellow educator Sydney Korn discussed how Rosh Hashanah is typically a joyful time, especially in contrast to the more somber Yom Kippur that follows.
Yet, as they celebrated, the weight of recent losses was present. “I’m trying to be joyful, but also remember this loss I just experienced,” Street commented, capturing the dual nature of the holiday.
Looking Ahead
As the evening came to a close, the mood reflected a blend of hope and mindful remembrance. The congregation stands at a unique crossroads, carrying both the weight of ongoing global events and the bright promise of a new year filled with potential for action and positive change.
For the Jewish community in Chattanooga, this time of year is not just about new beginnings, but about collective responsibility—encouraging each other to make an impact in both their immediate environment and the wider world.
In this spirit of renewal and hope, as the new year begins, many are left wondering how they can contribute to creating a better world for all.
