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June 28, 2009
Greensboro, Vermont
Rabbi Ira J. Schiffer
For those of you don’t know me, I’m Rabbi
Ira, and I’m here today in a special capacity
that I treasure, Chaplain of Circus Smirkus.
In some traditions, 7 is a very special number. It
represents Creativity, Creation and a sense of wholeness,
of being complete. Beginning today, when that tent
flap opens, you’ll be sharing your creativity,
talent and creation for seven extraordinary weeks.
In circus tradition, the ring is a very special place,
set apart from the rest of the world. It is here where
you do your work and work your wonder. This ring is
your sacred space, and during each performance, you
create sacred time, time out of the ordinary, as you
bring to life, tales both ancient and modern.
• I offer a prayer of hope that you’ll
all be safe in your performances and travels;
• A prayer of thanks and appreciation to the
coaches, trainers, tent crew, techies, all the staff
and volunteers who make up the Smirkus family and
make this all possible;
• A prayer, suggested by Father Jerry, Circus
Chaplain to Ringling Bros. and Big Apple Circuses,
that those who enter this tent, “are able
to leave their pain and sorrow outside,”
That you bring a smile, a laugh, a moment
of exquisite awe, to all who come to share Smirkus
with you.
As you get ready to perform the first show of the
season, let me offer the traditional Jewish blessing
recited when we do something for the first time, the
Shehehianu, which I’ll first recite in Hebrew.
“Praised are You, Eternal Source of Creativity,
Talent and Joy, who has kept us in life, nurtured
us and brought us to this day.”
Amen and Fi, Fie, Fo, Fun!
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