Trial period for the new CH Rov.
Change we can believe in. Remember that slogan? Just two years later and we have no change. Nor is there much belief left either. BUT - we still have two years to go.
Now imagine we had elected our President for life. I'd have packed my bags and found a new nationality already. Yet that is exactly what we are about to do here in our shechunah; elect an unknown candidate running on a populist platform for a fresh leaf and a new tomorrow. As if we've already forgotten how that worked out last time. But this time, the outcome will be permanent.
I have no bias or preference for any candidate. But I am afraid. Terrified actually, because we are ready to elect an unknown candidate to a lifetime position. Why? What's the rush? Are we compulsive gamblers - we only play all or nothing? Why can't we have a tryout period? I think the rational thing to do is to elect a Rov for a three year trial period, at the end of which we can hold a referendum; whether to confirm the elected Rov for life, or to find another one who can deliver. When I got married I dated till I knew I was making the right choice. I didn't just go along with "change I could believe in." This is the same thing. It's a lifetime decision. And we only have one chance to do it right.
Usually, the custom by Jewish communities had been to elect permanent Rabbonim. But this not a usual case. Two of three candidates are neither well know, nor local. If we are going to elect them for life, we need a chance to know who they are.
I care. As Crown Heights residents, we have a right and responsibility to protect our future. Please sign our petition to Rabbi Rosenberg for the sake of our community.
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