If someone had told me at the beginning of Spring 2008 that I would be serving as the solo Rabbi of the Lake Norman Jewish Congregation in Davidson, North Carolina, I might have been skeptical. I was busy finishing a thesis, preparing for a marathon round of interviews in Los Angeles and healing from heartbreak that eventually would make me stronger and more whole.



However, from the first sacred moments of my time with the President of the Congregation, Slade Goldstein, and Board Member, Amy McNulty, the course was charted. Four weeks after that first meeting, my greatest adventure to date began.



Now, Lake Norman, Charlotte, Huntersville, Cornelius, Davidson, Mooresville, Concord, Terrell, Sherrills Ford, Salisbury; all once foreign, are now the familiar exits off the highway, and the towns that many of my congregants call home. I am blessed to claim North Carolina my Jewish home, and the Lake Norman Jewish Congregation, my new spiritual family.



We have struck a sacred covenant. The 100 families, 75 children in the religious school, their enthusiastic teachers, and dedicated parents; adult learners,  lay leaders and committees;  We are fused together, each person bringing his or her own song, creating a beautiful symphony.



Lake Norman Jewish Congregation, thank you for the invaluable gifts you have given me. I look forward to continuing our adventure.



-Rabbi Shields