Sign In Forgot Password

Lech L’cha – Setting Off On a New Journey

01/26/2023 10:08:45 AM

Jan26

Luke Colaciello

Dear friends,

Some of you may have noticed my absence the last couple of weeks. I have been taking time to rest and cater to my mental and emotional wellbeing. Taking this time has led me to hear the words that our patriarch Abraham once heard as well – lech l’cha. Go forth. 

It is with mixed emotions that I share with you all that I will be stepping down from my role as Executive Director of Congregation Beth Evergreen effective Friday, February 3rd. I know this may seem like a sudden decision for many – in a lot of ways it has been sudden for me as well. But with rest comes clarity and at this moment in my life I need to focus on my own mental health and wellbeing.

I have loved being able to be of service to this community. As I have written on several occasions in the Shofar, this kehillah is sacred – not simply in calling it so, but through the actions that each of us takes as a part of it. I have known such kindness, warmth, and support from so many of you as I have navigated this role and for that I am profoundly grateful.

As with any sacred journey, I am stepping into the unknown, as our ancestors did when they left Egypt and entered into the desert, uncertain of what their future might hold. I am certain of one thing at this moment: my love for Congregation Beth Evergreen is constant and I am hopeful that it may even grow as, in time, I reenter it not in the professional capacity as an executive director, but as a valued member of the congregation. 

Thank you for the honor of entrusting me with this role. As we all head into unknown territory, may each of us, like Abraham, go from strength to strength.

With love and gratitude.

L’shalom,

Luke Colaciello

Fri, April 19 2024 11 Nisan 5784