Afternoon Meditation

In the Torah portion of Chayei Sarah (which we will read in shul on November 14th), we are told how Isaac initiated the idea of Mincha- the afternoon prayer.

It is perhaps fitting that as we are about to approach this Torah portion we have initiated Barnet Synagogue's first Lunchtime Mincha Minyan Monday-Thursday at 12.45pm.

In the summer months (April-September) we are able to daven Mincha together with the Mariv evening prayer at 7.30pm. However, as the nights draw in the window of opportunity to daven Mincha becomes smaller and we are left at this time of the year with a time between about 12.15pm and 4.15pm. As these times are right in the middle of the work day it is often difficult to ensure that you can pray with a Minyan and it is difficult for communities to rustle up a Minyan.

But Barnet Synagogue always punches above her weight and we have had a strong Minyan both yesterday and today and the hope is that as time goes on more people will become part of this afternoon meditation!

When I went to Mincha this afternoon the weather was awful and it was raining and grey. When I left Mincha 10 minutes later the sky was blue, the sun was out and I felt great.

I know one of the integral roles of the Rabbi is to inspire his community but with the launch of our lunchtime Mincha Minyan and the commitment of those who have come, it is the community of Barnet which continues to inspire me.

Take time out in the middle of your day and connect with God. I am sure that you too will be inspired!

Rabbi BB Lerer