Inside our synagogue we see the strangest sight:
Our Rabbi Barnard’s missing—turned off his office light.
He’s not inside the chapel, he’s not inside the school,
He isn’t eating bagels—he’s nowhere in the shul!
CHORUS:
What should we do? Our Rabbi is retiring!
Let’s all serenade him so our love we’ll show.
Rabbi, you have our deepest admiration,
But now it’s time to let you go.
39 years ago our Rabbi came to see
If joining our community would fill his heart with glee.
He met with Neusners, Richards, with Weisers, and with more,
And all of them concluded: “Don’t let him out the door!”
Not only can you daven, you also cook Chinese,
And teach at Mercaz high school with wisdom and with ease.
From funerals to counseling you use a gentle hand.
You’re always here when needed –- that’s why we think you’re grand.
CHORUS:
What should we do? Our Rabbi is retiring!
Let’s all serenade him so our love we’ll show.
Rabbi, you have our deepest admiration,
But now it’s time to let you go.
But now your Sarah says, “You’ve been here quite awhile.
Why don’t you exit gracefully and do it all with style.
You’ll have more time to study, you’ll have more time to read.
We’ll have more time to travel—El Al, you’d best take heed!”
Instead of on the bima, we’ll find you in the pews
Where you can daven peacefully with all your fellow Jews.
No need to check your watch to see if we’re on time.
These problems will no longer occupy your time!
CHORUS:
What should we do? Our Rabbi is retiring!
Let’s all serenade him so our love we’ll show.
Rabbi, you have our deepest admiration,
But now it’s time to let you go.
For almost 40 years you’ve shared our tears and joys.
You’ve coached us and you’ve helped us: adults and girls and boys.
As you begin with relish the next chapter of your life,
Accept all our best wishes, for you and for your wife.
©2014 Judy D. Miller
Performed at the Gala Tribute Honoring Rabbi Gershom Barnard
Northern Hills Synagogue-Congregation B'nai Avraham
May 11, 2014
