By Chaplain (CPT) Scott I. Klein
The echoes of the shofar still resonate, and the scent of etrog lingers in the air as I reflect on a truly extraordinary High Holiday season here at Fort Liberty. More than just a series of religious observances, these past weeks have been a testament to the resilience of faith, the power of community, and the profound impact of shared traditions within our military community.
It has been incredibly gratifying to witness a surge of interest in Jewish life on base. Since establishing weekly Shabbat services, we have seen a steady increase in attendance, a trend that amplified significantly during the High Holidays. Many service members and their families, some who had never before participated in communal Jewish experiences, joined us for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services. Their presence enriched our gatherings and underscored the deep-seated yearning for spiritual connection, particularly within the unique context of military life.
The High Holidays are a period of introspection and renewal, and we sought to create an environment that fostered these ideals. Our Rosh Hashanah services were filled with both traditional melodies and contemporary interpretations, inviting participants to connect with the liturgy on a personal level. We also organized a thought-provoking discussion on the themes of repentance and forgiveness, encouraging self-reflection and dialogue. For Yom Kippur, we created a space for quiet contemplation, offering opportunities for individual prayer and introspection alongside the communal service. The response was overwhelming, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to engage with their faith in such a meaningful way.
Sukkot was a particularly special occasion this year. The construction of our brand new sukkah, a collaborative effort involving numerous volunteers, transformed a simple space into a vibrant hub of activity. Throughout the week, it was filled with laughter, conversation, and the joyous shaking of the lulav and etrog. We welcomed service members of all ranks and backgrounds, offering them the opportunity to connect with this ancient tradition in a meaningful way. The abundance of fresh challah, lovingly baked by donors to the Jewish Soldiers Project, and the seemingly endless supply of delicious snacks further enhanced the atmosphere of warmth and hospitality.
Simchat Torah was a joyous culmination of the holiday season. The energy was palpable as we danced with the Torah scrolls, our voices raised in song and celebration. Witnessing the genuine enthusiasm and participation of both seasoned observers and newcomers alike was truly inspiring. These shared moments of joy and spiritual expression forged lasting bonds and deepened our sense of community. We concluded the evening with a festive meal, complete with traditional singing and storytelling, creating lasting memories for all who attended.
Our commitment to Jewish life extends far beyond the High Holidays. We are dedicated to nurturing a vibrant and inclusive community throughout the year. Weekly Shabbat services remain a cornerstone of our activities, providing a consistent space for prayer, reflection, and fellowship. We have also introduced a new Wednesday evening Torah study hosted in my home, offering a more intimate setting for deeper exploration of our texts and traditions. To conclude the holiday season, we held a Havdalah ceremony under the starlit sky, creating a moment of tranquility and connection to the natural world. We are also exploring new initiatives such as a Jewish book club and film series, aiming to provide diverse opportunities for engagement and learning.
The success of our programs would not be possible without the unwavering support of key partners. PJ Library and MyZuzah have been instrumental in providing engaging resources that cater to all ages, enriching our offerings and enabling us to create a truly multi-generational community. These collaborations are essential to our growth and sustainability. We are also grateful for the support of the local Jewish community, whose members have generously donated their time and resources to help us build a thriving Jewish community on base.
As we move into the rest of the year, we carry with us the momentum and inspiration of the High Holidays. Hanukkah is fast approaching, and we are eagerly planning a series of engaging events to celebrate the Festival of Lights and its miracles. I am particularly excited to share these experiences with our ever-expanding community, further strengthening our bonds and fostering a sense of shared identity. We also are looking forward to hosting a special Hanukkah party for children and families, complete with games, crafts, and delicious latkes.
I am deeply grateful to JWB Jewish Chaplains Council® for members’ invaluable mentorship and support. The endorsement and resources the organization provides have been crucial in my journey as a chaplain, equipping me to serve the spiritual needs of our Jewish service members with confidence and compassion. I am also thankful for the leaders at Fort Liberty, who have been incredibly supportive of our efforts to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all faiths.
I also wish to express my appreciation to JCC Association of North America for this opportunity to share our story. By highlighting the richness and vibrancy of Jewish life within the military, we hope to inspire others to embrace their heritage and consider the profound rewards of chaplaincy.
Chaplain (CPT) Scott I. Klein, Ed.D., is a rabbi endorsed by JWB Jewish Chaplains Council®. He currently serves in the U.S. Army at Fort Liberty, N.C., with the 407th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division.
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