Center for Ministry Formation

Stewarding Support “Through a Jewish Lens”

The weekend before Thanksgiving is especially challenging for survivors of suicide loss. Instead of family togetherness, many are left experiencing the painful words of the book of First Samuel: “Thou shalt be missed because thy seat will be empty.” To respond to such loss, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) runs support programs in the form of meetings, luncheons, and get-togethers across the country on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Yet such programs exclude Sabbath-observant Jews who would not be able to attend Saturday programs. Two years ago, the Capital Region (NY) Chapter of AFSP responded by starting a nationwide Zoom program on the Sunday before Thanksgiving, “Through a Jewish Lens.”

 I have been honored to serve on this program’s planning committee, deliver a Torah commentary on the day itself as well as facilitate a breakout session. To me, our faith-rooted mission of “Good Help to those in Need” combines with Rabbi Hillel’s teaching in the Jewish sacred writings, the Talmud: “Do not separate thyself from the community.” Sometimes, the community is our base area of greater Port Jervis, where I am honored to represent the Jewish community on the Interfaith Council. Sometimes the reach goes far beyond the local community and into the virtual modes of community-building with which we are now so familiar.

This year I wondered when I would hear from the Albany Chapter about upcoming plans for continuing “Through a Jewish Lens.” I was saddened to learn that the Director who organized the program the previous two years was no longer involved, leaving it up in the air if the program would even continue. One of the wall hangings over my desk at Bon Secours Community Hospital is a guiding principle from the Talmud. Its English translation of Rabbi Tarfon’s wisdom is: “You may not complete the task, but you are not free to remove yourself from it.” Staring at that guiding moral principle, I remember that G-D has entrusted me with gifts and resources and calls me to use them responsibly for the good of all.

As of writing this essay, I’m relieved to report: I’ve succeeded in reconvening last year’s planning committee; the Capital Region (NY) Chapter of AFSP has agreed to commit its resources again; and on Sun, Nov 19, I will be leading this group in a nationwide Zoom offering of “Through a Jewish Lens,” for Jewish survivors of suicide loss. The gift of being able to offer comfort to so many at such a tough time resonates with every member of the Planning Committee, be they clergy, suicide loss survivors, or members of communities across the country. While I am not a suicide loss survivor, they are close to my heart. I pray I will be able to continue using all the resources G-D has entrusted me with, in service to others and to G-D, by offering comfort this way.