The Travelers’ Prayer
Text: Traditional Jewish travelers’ prayer
After working with Rabbi Michael Cahana for four years at Temple Israel of New Rochelle, I got the news that my friend and colleague would be taking a new pulpit in Portland, Oregon. While I was sad to lose a good friend and colleague to the West, I understood this was the best move for him and his family, and I wanted to give Michael and his family a musical farewell gift.
Planning in secrecy, I wrote this Travelers’ Prayer, based on the traditional text and weekday musical nusakh, and engaged the help of our volunteer choir and tenor, Jacob Meiner, to rehearse and then perform this piece at Michael’s farewell service. We were successful in surprising the Cahanas and we continue to wish them well as they travel across the country and prosper in their new home.
“And Jacob went on his way, and angels of God met him. And Jacob said when he saw them, ‘This is God’s host.’ And he called the name of the place Makhanayim.”
May it be Your will Adonai, our God, and God of our ancestors, that You lead us to peace, incline our footsteps to peace, guide us to peace, and cause us to reach our desired destination for life, for joy, and for peace.
For Your deliverance, I hope, Adonai. I hope, Adonai, for Your deliverance. Adonai, for Your deliverance I hope. (Genesis 49:18)
Send blessing in all our work, and grant us favor, kindness, and compassion in Your eyes, and in the eyes of all who see us. Hear the sound of our supplication, for You are Almighty Who hears prayer and supplication. Blessed are You, Adonai, Who hears prayer.
Adonai will give strength to this people; Adonai will bless this people with peace. (Psalm 29:11)
Teach My Lips a Blessing
the music of Erik Contzius
