Updates

There is a tremendous difference between loneliness and solitude. These days we are forced to think of what it means to be alone, whether we are self-isolating or in quarantine.

Loneliness always seems to suggest a sadness, a not-by-choice situation. And then we have solitude - which feels like more of a choice, a time to enjoy being surrounded by peace and quiet. Now that we are entering a different phase in our lives, one where we will have more opportunities to spend more time on our own, let’s learn to expand our knowledge of solitude and enjoy it rather than resent and fear it.

Here is my word puzzle:)

S — Spend a few hours meditating on your relationship with G-d
O — One G-d, one commitment
L — Love your G-d with all your heart
I — Isolation - a choice - makes room for self-assessment and prayer
T — Torah teaches all we need to know
U — Use this new-found time wisely to help others
D — Dedicate yourself to the Mitzvah-A-Day Club
E — Each of us can make a difference

And now a challenge for you: how do you see solitude?

"And you shall guard your lives very well"

Deuteronomy 4:15

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To our dear community,

I hope and pray you and your loved ones are ok.

As the spread of COVID-19 continues, Chabad of Naples is focusing on health and safety, especially to protect vulnerable people in our community.

With heavy hearts, we regret to inform you that as of Monday night, Chabad of Naples has suspended all programming and upcoming events, including synagogue services, until further notice. We do so with an eye to Judaism’s foundational teachings about the preservation of life.

It is at unpredictable times like this that we must turn to each other with support and look for ways to be of service. Please let us know if there is any way we can assist you.

In addition, if anyone who would like to volunteer to help our community - by helping purchase groceries for the elderly and those at higher risk or in other community-minded ways - please reach out. We are stronger together and we will get through this as a community.

Our team is working to set up a proactive Chessed committee charged with the task of reaching out to those who are most vulnerable in our community.

Members are ready-to-go and will call you, shop for you, deliver to you, speak with you and help you through this. If this applies to you or someone in your world, please call us if you need assistance.

We must also never lose sight of the importance and power of prayer. It is vital that we continue to focus our hearts and minds in prayer to Almighty G-d, who provides the ultimate means of protection and healing for the entire world.

Please know that we will communicate with you and share all information as we receive it. We are, first and foremost, mishpochah, our communication is two-way. Reach out, contact us if you need - we are here, day and night.

Connection to our community is what we are all about. So much of our world revolves around our close connection with each other. We love and cherish that.

We are going through trying times. Let’s be there for each other. Every challenge is an opportunity. Let’s make the best of the situation we are all in. If you know of someone that can use a helping hand or if you are available to give a helping hand to someone in need, please contact us. As always, if there is anything we can do to help you, a loved one or anyone else, please reach out to us.

We will be continually monitoring the latest advisories and relevant information regarding COVID-19 from the CDC website, while also consulting with other organizational leaders on how to take the most proactive approach to prevent the spread of the virus.

May G-d bless and protect you and your families and keep you safe.

We can’t wait to daven and dance with you once again. As your rabbi, and as your friends, we are here.

Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos
Arthur Seigel M.D.