Rabbi David Zeller, of blessed memory, composed this song based on this teaching by Rabbi Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl (1730-1797): “When a person’s spirit falls to the depths of despair, he must think: ‘Why, I am alive-chai ani! And who is this aliveness I am? Is it not the Holy Blessed One!’”
Ale Brider (Morris Winchevsky) A Yiddish song from the Jewish labor movement that expresses our hopes today, as well.
About the UCJF
The Jewish Federation of Ulster County is the umbrella organization serving the secular needs of the local Jewish community. As a not-for-profit, social service agency, it supports area food banks and other social welfare initiatives, such as Project Resilience, as well, providing needed help for all, regardless of religious affiliation. The Jewish Federation is proud of the fact that both the Reher Center for Immigrant Culture and History and the Kingston Multicultural Festival had their beginnings as projects of our organization and enjoy our continuing support.
About the WJC Band
MUSIC OF THE WOODSTOCK JEWISH CONGREGATION
Many fine musicians from the area attend services at the Woodstock Jewish Congregation. Music, singing and dancing are an integral part of all of our services. Rosh Hashannah provides an especially rich opportunity to mix song and prayer. Because photography is not allowed during religious services, in December 2012, a group of us assembled to recreate some of the most magical moments from the High Holy Days, led by our congregational rabbi, Rabbi Jonathan Kligler., and captured by Chris Andersen of Nevessa Productions, Woodstock.
