HIGH HOLIDAY SPEECHES
This is a collection of speeches that were given by presidents in
September 2007. There are a few speeches that were submitted by
past presidents from previous years.
These speeches were collected for the purpose of sharing our vast
learning experiences. Reading them may help lay leaders organize
their own thoughts when composing remarks for future High
Holiday speeches.
While we often work in a vacuum, consumed with the pressures of
using limited volunteer hours to organize our ideas, these speeches
share inspirational stories about the strength and vision of our
Conservative Movement.
Additional speeches may be found at the USCJ’s shulforms web
site: http://www.shulforms.org
Collected by: Arthur Glauberman
October 27, 2007
1
3
9
13
18
30
37
42
53
64
66
82
104
107
110
Michael Feldstein, The Jewish Center of Princeton (750), NJ
Lester Blumberg, Temple Emunah, Lexington, MA
Jeff Katz: Temple Israel, Norfolk, Virginia
Eric Weinstein, Temple Beth Shalom (280), Framingham, MA
Karolin Lipman, Congregation Beth Shalom (470) Wilmington, DE
Sam Kamens, Highland Park Conservative Temple, NJ
Roger Cohen, Sutton Place Synagogue, 235 E. 51st St., New York, NY
Wendy Brody, Ohavi Zedek Synagogue, Burlington, VT
Naomi Richman, Congregation B’nai Israel (105) Petaluma, CA
Mark Kaufman, Shaare Tefila Congregation, Silver Spring/Olney, MD
Arthur Liederman, Hollis Hills Jewish Center, Queens, NY (250)
Heidi Kolden, Temple Beth Sholom, (155) San Leondro, CA
Ken Goodman, Congregation of Moses (140) Kalamazoo, MI
Janice Brown, Temple Hillel (480) Valley Stream, NY
118
125
132
139
142
148
153
156
167
180
188
193
201
206
209
217
224
231
237
241
249
271
279
289
301
302
309
317
318
321
323
326
Murray Steinberg, Temple Israel of Daytona Beach, Fl (185)
Alan Schein, Beth El Temple, Harrisburg, Pa
Burton F. Metzger, Congregation Agudath Achim(300), Savannah, Ga
Hali Goss, Emanuel Synagogue (175), Oklahoma City, OK
Marty Koplin, Congregation Sha’arey Israel, Macon, Ga.
Ricki lee Grafter, Congregation Beth David, (558) Saratoga, Ca.
Stuart Myron, Beth Tzedec Congregation (684), Calgary, Alberta
Mark Adelman, Temple of Aaron Synagogue (1200) St. Paul, MN
Stuart Katz, Temple Beth Sholom (460) Hamden, Connecticut
Bob Bachrach, Congregation Etz Chaim (725), Marietta, Ga
Sheila B. Grossman, Temple Beth Am (650), Margate, Fl
Arlene Lewis, Congregation Beth Tikvah (200), Marton, NJ
Leslie Fraidstern, Congregation B’nai Israel (400), Northhampton, MA
Karin Karel, Congregation BethShalom (470) Wilmington, DE
Michael Levine, Emanuel Synagogue, (660) West Hartford, CT
Arlene Rosenbaum, Ohev Shalom of Bucks County (700), PA
Jon Fraade, The Conservative Synagogue (440) Westport, CT
Jerry Landau, Har Zion Congregation,(460) Scottsdale, Ar
Mark Kaufman, Shaare Tefila Congregation, Silver Springs, Maryland
Susan Zelman, Temple Beth Sholom (900), Roslyn Heights, NY
David Blattner, Beth Ahm (420), Cooper City, Florida
Jonathan Brody, Congregation Beth Israel (140) Andover, MA
Arthur Glauberman, Shaarei Tikvah (175) Scarsdale, NY
Arthur Harrow, Beth El, (700) Richmond, VA
Carol Finerman, Beth Israel Congregation, Ann Arbor, MI (485)
Marty Koplan, Congregation Sha’arey Israel (CSI) Macon, Georgia
Arlene Lewis, Congregation Beth Tikvah, Marlton, NJ
Morley Goldberg, Beth Tikvah Synagogue (1200) Toronto, Ont
Stuart Myron, Beth Tzedek Congregation, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Robert Berns, Morristown Jewish Center Beit Israel, (430) Morristown, NJ
Carol Chorney, Commack Jewish Center (300), Commack, NY
Jill Schiff Boissonnault Beth Israel Center Madison, WI (290)
330
335
David Brotman Temple Beth O’r/ Beth Torah (204), Clark, NJ
Myles Simpson Temple Etz Chaim, (550)Thousand Oaks, Ca
2
Michael Feldstein
Jewish Center of Princeton (750)
435 Nassau Street, Princeton, NJ 08540
www.thejewishcenter.org
Become yourself…
Become yourself.
Two simple words paired by a 19th century philosopher. Simple as they are, the
phrase is emblematic of the message I wish to express tonight. I could certainly
expound on the notion of “becoming yourself” during this holy period of
introspection to rethink and direct our lives as individuals. But there is another
realm of introspection…. one that I contend is more important than our individual
considerations. I am talking about the vision we have for ourselves as a
community.
As I have written to you in my column in the newsletter, The Jewish Center is
currently undertaking its own process of introspection led by our esteemed long
range planning committee. This process includes involvement from the board of
directors, the staff, and the entire congregation starting with the survey you
should have received by email and completed by noon on Sunday. We are
asking as a synagogue what we are all asking individually: who are we? What
should we be doing? And what do we want to be?
Now, the Jewish Center has never been better! And we are not looking to
change. We are working to “become our self”. We take great pride in being a
large, vibrant, diverse, egalitarian, welcoming organization that serves our
spiritual, lifecycle, educational, and social needs. Our mission is to preserve
these precious features, not change them. But times change, and therefore we
must periodically assess our priorities, resources, challenges and opportunities
within the context of our society. Said another way, sometimes we must make
an effort to become our selves; and that is what we are doing. As it says in the
Book of Proverbs, “Where there is no vision, the people perish”.
And why is this so important? There are many reasons why we desire a strong
synagogue. A place to pray, a bnai mitzvah, wedding, funeral, education for our
children and our selves, a great place to make friends with wonderful people with
which we have much in common.
But there is a reason more important than just our immediate needs.
I unapologetically believe that there really is something to the notion of us being
the chosen people. It is difficult to explain why we have even survived 3,500
challenging years. Yet we have, and think of what we have achieved:
3
The basic tenants of the Ten Commandments, the Torah, and the rule of law that
we gave the world are the underlying weave of the fabric of free societies. The
principles of our Jewish Bible have been the ethical basis of abolitionist, anti-war,
labor, anti-apartheid, pro-democracy, and countless other human rights
movements. The language of our teachings is heard in the words of visionaries
such as Harriet Tubman, Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Cesar
Chavez, Bob Marley, Oscar Romero, Corazon Aquino, Nelson Mandela, Harry
Wu. I could go on.
And within this amazing tradition, here we are as Jewish Americans. I believe we
are an essential segment of the chosen people. The 350 years we have lived
here is just 10% of our lifetime as a people. But in this time we have enjoyed
unprecedented freedoms and opportunities, and have thrived. America is home
to 70% of all Jews living outside Israel, and it has been estimated that Jewish
Americans hold over 85% of Jewish economic resources in the Diaspora.
There are many well-known examples of our contributions to American society,
and it is an extraordinary list considering we only constitute about two percent of
this country’s population:
















11 percent of the US Senate, 6 percent of the House, and 17 percent of
Supreme Court Justices
21 percent of Ivy League students and 30 percent of the faculty at Harvard,
Yale, and Stanford law schools.
All but one major Hollywood studio
38 percent of Best Director Oscars
30 percent of Kennedy Center honorees
Elvis, yes Elvis’ mother was Jewish
Owners of 25 percent of NFL football teams, 28 percent of NBA basketball
teams and Commissioners of all five major professional sports
David Beckham, Mark Spitz, Hank Greenberg, and Sandy Koufax (who
famously refused to pitch in the world series on Yom Kippur so he could go to
synagogue, and who’s yarmulke I am wearing tonight)
Hershey’s Chocolate, Starbucks, Lenders Bagels, Ben and Jerry’s, Haagen
Dazs,
Levy Straus, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Donna Karan,
Helena Rubenstein, Este Lauder, Elizabeth Arden
Bloomingdales, Macy’s, Saks, Abraham & Strauss, Neiman Markus, Bergdorf
Goodman
Sears, Home Depot, Gap, Bed, Bath & Beyond and on line with QVC and
Home Shopping Network
Goldman Sachs, Lehman Brothers, Bear Sterns, Solomon Brothers
The New York Times, Reuters, Random House, Bloomberg, and the Pulitzer
Prize.
The list of entertainers is way too long to read tonight, so I will just mention a
minyan of ten of my favorites: The Marx Brothers, Jerry Seinfeld, Howard
4
Stern, Larry, Moe, and Curly, Paul Newman, Crusty the Clown, Rodney
Dangerfield, Bugs Bunny (through Mel Blanc and Fritz Freleng, both Jewish),
Dr. Ruth, and America’s first superhero… Harry Houdini.
Perhaps more meaningful however are the moral and social contributions we
Jewish Americans have provided here and around the world.











Critical funding for the revolutionary war without which it might not have
succeeded.
On this exact date 85 years ago, President Warren G. Harding responded to
Jewish American lobbying and signed a joint resolution of congress
expressing approval of a Jewish State in Eretz Yisrael.
Jewish Americans were instrumental in lobbying the government of our
powerful country to defend our allies, democracy, and defeat Nazism,
fascism, and imperialism twice in the last century.
Jewish Americans were instrumental in the establishment of the fledgling
State of Israel.
o Our political lobbying led to America’s recognition of the state eleven
minutes after it was proclaimed by David Ben Gourion.
o My great uncle and many others sent secret shipments of weapons to
the Haganah.
o And of course we have given unsurpassed financial support.
o In 1948, Golda Meir came to America and received $50 million in
emergency donations within days, and without which she felt Israel
might not have survived the war of independence. As Golda said, the
money would allow them to fight with arms instead of stones, and
“There was only one group of people in the whole world that we had
any chance of getting these dollars from: the Jews of America. There
was simply nowhere else to go and no one else to go to.”
o Golda herself was the product of the Jewish community of Milwaukee,
Wisconsin.
Today, Jewish Americans contribute around one billion dollars to Israel
annually, and lobby our government for three times that much in aid to Israel.
As it says in the Talmud, “The community is Israel’s rampart”.
Jewish Americans were a rare group to stand up and be counted in the civil
rights movement in the 1960’s. And that was at a time when we as Jews had
our own challenges being accepted in many areas of American society.
We have been watchdogs for the separation of church and state.
Jewish Americans played a prominent role in getting the Soviet Union to open
the door to millions of refusnics.
Funding for Operation Magic Carpet that transported North African Jews to
Israel
Funding for Operation Solomon that transported Jews from Ethiopia to Israel.
Even more recently, when Israel’s plan to pull out of Gaza was on the verge
of not happening, it was Jewish American contributors who donated huge
sums of money to compensate Israeli farmers for the valuable greenhouses
5


they built in Gaza. Whether you are fond of that policy or not, it is one more
instance when Israel was enabled by the Jewish American community.
When our synagogue sent a bus load of people to Washington for a rally
against the genocide in Darfur, I saw more people with yarmulkes, shirts and
banners identifying themselves as Jews than any other group of people.
Jewish Americans Charles Bronfman and Michael Steinhardt created the
Birthright Israel program that last year alone provided trips to Israel for over
100,000 Jews from the Diaspora.
So, what can explain this remarkable achievement vastly disproportionate to our
mere 2 percent of the population of the United States? Is it our genes? Our
culture? Something in all those bagels and lox? None of us want me to spend
another 8 minutes exploring the reason why. I think I have demonstrated the
point that we Jewish Americans have certainly done our share toward the Jewish
role of being a light unto the nations. We have been a source of good for the
United States, Israel, fellow Jews in the Diaspora, humanity and the world.
Unfortunately…. that rich and righteous history is just that…. history. And the
present is characterized by a crisis for American Jewry. There is nothing short of
a demographic emergency silently occurring. One that will be tragic for the world
in which we have thus far been a blessing.
Since just last year, America no longer boasts the largest population of Jews in
the world. Israel now has a greater number of Jews than America. While I
celebrate the growth of Israel’s Jewish population, even though it is largely from
immigration, it is dismaying that the Jewish population of America has diminished
so significantly.
In 1980, there were 5.9 million of us in America. Today, 5.2 million. A loss of
700,000. At this rate, by the year 2030, there will be as few as two and a half
million Jews in America. At that point, we will represent a mere 0.7% of the
population.
Sadly, we’re not just declining in number. Studies show that of the 5.2 million
Jews in America today, only about half are “somewhat committed” to their
Judaism. Think of all the innovations, all the entrepreneurship, all the
entertainment, all the arts and sciences, all the philanthropy and lobbying for
worthy causes that will not be made if these trends are not reversed.
This is a problem. We still have work to do.
 Brutal displacements, raping and killing are still going on in Darfur,
 Islamic fundamentalism is on the rise on our campuses and around our world,
 Iran is racing to build nuclear weapons,
 Pakistan already has them,
 There are diseases and threats of pandemics that need to be cured,
6


The world desperately needs a real source of clean energy and
environmental protection,
And I feel particularly strong that there has been a decay of essential values
in American society such as personal responsibility and a fundamental sense
of right and wrong. Just look at our daily news.
All of these issues would benefit from Jewish American involvement. We are
unique in our ability to address such matters. We were slaves, we have been
oppressed, and as Jewish American activist Andrea Cohen-Kiener expressed,
“Jews are used to believing and behaving as if small actions reflect great issues.
How we pick our crops, for example, hints at our commitment to hunger and
social action… How else could we integrate lofty goals into our daily regimen if
not by small, concrete acts. This is the brilliance and challenge of Judaism:
Kideshanu b’mitzvotav – we are holy because of our actions.”
I am reminded of the inscription on the National Archives Building in Washington
DC that houses the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of Rights and
other pivotal documents of our democracy. It says, “Eternal vigilance is the price
of liberty”. Similarly, Judaism demands an eternal vigilance. We have a
universal mission and are a light unto nations. We cannot allow that light to fade.
Each of us, and the Jewish American community we comprise, are the vital
energy for this light to shine into the future.
So what can we do?
We need to “become ourselves”. We need to adapt to the present society and
challenges. We need to strengthen our synagogue. How? Attend services and
participate here at The Jewish Center. Its not so hard… There are many ways to
get involved, and I, and dozens of other leaders, our clergy, and our staff are
here to assist you. Just give me a call or email, or talk with me here at the
synagogue. This is not an “appeal”, but it is important to financially support The
Jewish Center through your membership, the Annual Fund, and programs that
suit your interests. We need to make sure that our message, our services,
programs, classes, and facility are the best possible to achieve the goals we
have always had. Why? Because the synagogue has proven to be the primary
institution in American society to foster our culture, our spirit, our continuity, and
that perhaps indescribable special trait that makes us who we are.
In the research I did for tonight, I discovered that belonging to a synagogue
provides a greater Jewish connection in the perception of Jewish Americans than
any other institution, and even statistically more than lighting Shabbat candles or
keeping kosher at home. There are many books, papers, and speeches written
about the decline of American Judaism. And there are many proposals on how
to respond. Some will not help. Some may delay our demise into irrelevance for
another generation. What we need to pursue are solutions with the goal of
preserving and enhancing American Judaism in perpetuity. And those solutions
7
are centered around an enlightened vision of the synagogue.
That is why I am so committed to our long range planning process. Both the
vision it will clarify, and the strategies we will enact to achieve that vision. I have
been a member for 34 years including many of my major lifecycle events from
religious school and my bar mitzvah to all the simchas and sorrows I have shared
here with Lori. Yet I love the Jewish Center less for the past than I do for the
future it can support for my children Peri, Jacob, and Carmel, and future
generations.
There is an environmental bumper sticker that says the Earth is not a gift from
your parents, but on loan from your children. That is how I see our precious
Judaism, not just a gift from our parents, but a loan from our children, and one
we must deliver to them in good shape.
This imperative is particularly challenging for intermarried couples where,
according to statistics, the likelihood of their children identifying as Jewish is only
33% and their grandchildren, just 10%. We welcome the non-Jewish spouses
that are here supporting their spouse and children remain actively Jewish, and
our synagogue shall be a resource to help these parents toward that goal.
Another common bumper sticker, “Think Globally, Act Locally” also reflects my
contention. If we act locally, functioning as Jews with a strong synagogue to
perpetuate our religion, education, and culture, we will be doing our part toward
fostering good in the world. We must insure that, of all places, the affluent and
intellectually fertile ground of the greater Princeton community is maintained to
cultivate continued Jewish life and achievements for the good of our community,
our country, our cousins in Israel, and the world. Look around this room. Look at
all the local political leaders, scholars, heath care professionals, scientists,
artists, business owners, teachers, philanthropists, volunteers making a
difference in countless causes, great parents and grandparents with essential
values, high achieving young people, committed Jews and patriotic Americans.
This is an exceptional place.
That is why, of all the good Jewish or secular causes in the world to which you
could give your time, talents, and money, you are sitting in the most important
one. I am talking of an institution that enriches our lives and leads to nothing less
than tikkun olam, healing the world, and it all starts here… in our synagogue.
The Jewish Center of Princeton. The Jewish Center of our lives.
It has been my honor to convey this message to you tonight, and I hope this
expression of our communal importance is meaningful to you in your personal
introspection of your life, priorities, and the year to come.
Gmar Hatima Tovah.
8
Kol Nidre Address
Lester Blumberg, President
Temple Emunah, Lexington, MA
September 21, 2007 – 10 Tishre 5768
My dear friends, my chevre, what an honor it is to stand before you again as we
usher in another new year as brothers and sisters joined together by the richness of our
history, the beauty of our traditions, and the depth of our faith. Last year I made my Kol
Nidre remarks as new president, awed by the responsibility I had undertaken, and
humbled by the trust you had placed in me. Let me begin as I did last year, by thanking
you for the opportunity to be of service to this holy community.
Among my goals as president has been an effort to maintain and enhance the
inner strength of the shul; the connectedness we feel as members; the sense of belonging
and caring that we strive for everyone to feel. To the extent that I have succeeded in
some small measure, I could not have done it without the help of the dozens and dozens
of you who are active in conducting the business of the synagogue. In the course of this
year I have come to understand at a much deeper level than ever before how the vitality
of this community springs from the love and devotion of our professional and lay
leadership, and the work of countless hands taking on every task, from guiding our
youngsters as they prepare divrai Torah for their bar or bat mitzvahs, to pulling weeds
and spreading mulch. To the officers, committee chairs and board members, minyan
leaders, Torah readers and service greeters, to kitchen volunteers, social action
ambassadors, to 55 Plus-ers who help us reach our older congregants, to committee
members who inspire our teens and adult educators who enrich our minds; to those who
stand ready to comfort and aid the bereaved, or to lend hand to a family in need, to those
of you who know the insides of the building like your own homes, and those who devote
their hours to ways and means, and so many others. You are the life blood of our
community, and I thank you.
I am most particularly grateful to the officers, members of the Board of Directors
and committee chairs. Together with our exceptionally talented professional staff, each
devotes many hours executing the programs and activities that exemplify the excellence
of this community. They are the face of our lay leadership. I would like to ask the
officers, members of the board and committee chairs (whether on the board or not) to
stand and be recognized. Thank you.
And let me introduce once again, our new Executive Director, Alan Bell. In the
few short months that he has been with us, Alan has become a true partner in the
administration of the Temple. Alan, please stand so that people who have not yet met
you can know who you are.
On this night reflection and atonement, I know that we still have work to do to
make our community more inclusive, accessible and attractive to more members. I am
heartened by the ever increasing numbers of participants in our adult education classes, of
young families who take part in our family and tot Shabbat programs, of older members
9
who are taking advantage of activities and programs geared towards their needs and
interests – and I am thankful to members from all demographics who are helping us
better understand how to meet their needs. But in spite of this all, I know that there are
still those among us who do not feel as fully welcome or included as we wish them to be.
To those for whom our efforts have fallen short, I pledge to you tonight that we will redouble our efforts, for it is the most painful complaint for me to hear that we have failed
to make a family feel at home here at Temple Emunah. The circle of active, committed
members is large, and we must make sure there is room for everyone within it.
As President, I feel a responsibility to model the behavior that I ask each of us to
exhibit towards one another - behavior that is respectful, inclusive and welcoming.
Despite my best efforts, however, I am sure that I have given offense, either by act or
omission. To those whom I have offended and for those areas in which I have failed to
fulfill my responsibilities to the community, S’lach li - on this night of Yom Kippur I ask
your forgiveness. To our professional staff, and the officers, committee chairs and
members of the board, for the times I have been unable to give you the support and
guidance you might have needed, S’lach li, - on this night of Yom Kippur, I ask your
forgiveness. To Robin and Molly and to Jake (who had the wisdom to go away to college
the year I became president), for the evenings I have been out at meetings, the hours
spent in front of the computer, and for asking you to pick up the slack at home, S’lach li –
on the night of Yom Kippur I ask your forgiveness.
******************
So how is it that we continue to move the community forward, sustaining the best
of what we are, growing and building on our strengths? What is the nature of our
responsibility to one another? I have come to see our role as leaders, and I think as
members at large, as one of stewardship. We have been given the blessing of this
congregation, with its rich history and tradition, to have and to use for the present while
we are here, and we have a responsibility to leave a stronger, stable and even more
vibrant community for our children and grandchildren, and for those who will be here
long after we are gone.
The essence of this stewardship is nurturing the neshema – the soul – of our
congregation. Our neshema is found in the joy of our worship together, the beauty of the
melodies we sing, the richness of Shabbat, the intimacy of minyan, the values we express
as we care for one another and engage in social action, the intellectual and spiritual
growth we foster as we study together and in the fun we have at social events. As
stewards we have a responsibility to take part in these dimensions of our communal soul
– each in our own way – to embark on a journey of growth, for this is a soul that thrives
only when it is used – when it is stretched, probed – and yes, challenged by those who are
committed to its survival.
To those of you who come to Temple just a few times a year – welcome back – it
is wonderful to see you here this Yom Kippur. We have missed you. But I challenge you
to dip your toes in a bit more. Look around, and I am sure that you will find something
10
that will bring you back during the course of the year to come. If you don’t, let us know
what it is that might inspire you to join in.
To the many for whom Emunah is a more regular part of your lives – it’s also
great to see you here this evening! Help us to understand better what brings you to shul.
Stop in and schmooze when you are dropping your kids off for religious school. Attend
another lecture, study a text, come to Shabbat services, help us with minyan. Take a step
into leadership by joining a committee or undertaking a project.
And to those for whom Emunah is at the core – you have a special obligation to
the rest of us, for there is something here that has sparked your soul. You must share that
spark so that it can ignite other souls. For the core of the community cannot be an
exclusive club or clique. It must be a circle without boundaries, open and welcoming,
ever expanding. That is the essence of stewardship.
There is, of course, another critical element of stewardship, and many of you have
heard me speak of this before. As stewards we have a responsibility to ensure the fiscal
stability of our synagogue for the present and for the future. This is not just about giving
money. As officers and members of the Board we have a duty to assure that the Temple
spends its funds in a responsible manner, that our programming and staffing are
configured to meet the needs of the community, that our building is well maintained, and
that we plan for future contingencies – both those that we can predict, and those that will
surprise us. The Board is comprised of talented, dedicated and responsible stewards who
take their duties very seriously. The Temple’s budget is balanced every year. W e never
run a deficit, and we continually save for future needs. Our building, both the old part
and the new, has its challenges. Not every system works as well as it should, some of our
facilities need repair or replacement. We are doing our very best to plan for both short
and long term maintenance and capital repairs. Every project needs a champion, and I
appreciate the passion that some of you feel for one particular project or another. But
this is a team sport, so I invite all the champions to join together in helping us tackle each
one in a coordinated and deliberate way.
Of course, stewardship is also about money. I am thrilled to announce that we
have had another extremely successful Kol Nidre appeal. Thanks are due to Robert
Cohen and Craig Klein who took over the appeal this year, relieving Joe Nissenbaum
who somehow managed to have his knee replaced two days before we kicked it off – (Joe
next time just ask.) Although we got started a little late this past June, so many of you
have responded with the generosity that has characterized this appeal every year. I know
that we did not reach every member over the summer, and for those who included your
Kol Nidre pledge in your dues commitment for the year – you have my thanks. It is
never too late. If you have not yet made a pledge, please do so – whether you are able to
give $18.00, or $18,000 – it is your participation that counts.
Our Sustaining Membership program continues to be an important part of our
annual planning. My deepest thanks to those of you who have made the annual
11
commitment of dues payment above the standard categories to become sustaining
members.
The Kol Nidre appeal and our sustaining membership programs are essential parts
of our annual budget. But as stewards, we must also prepare, and do all that we can to
ensure the fiscal strength of the temple for the future. Last year I announced that we
would commence an endowment campaign that would help sustain our congregation for
the generations to come. It has been a busy year. Over the course of this past year,
David Ezekiel, Rabbi Lerner, and small group of other leaders have worked tirelessly put
us in a position to launch the campaign shortly after the holidays. Our endowment
campaign will fortify the success of our capital drive. B’Emunah – With Faith in our
Future - We have built the building, and now we will secure our ability to fill it with
prayer, learning and joy. Very soon you will be receiving news about the launch of our
campaign – it is an exciting and inspiring project – for at its core are members of our
community who have dedicated themselves to the future of our congregation, beyond this
year or next, beyond even this generation, to the generations to follow. I would like to
recognize these stewards tonight: The General Chairs of our endowment campaign are:
Sharon & Gary Curhan and Melissa & Jon Hirschtick. Honorary Chairs are: Beth &
Rich Fentin, Norman & Milly Koss; Phyllis & Samuel Rubinovitz; Jerome and Sharon
Smith and Amy & Roberto Tenenbaum. Chairs of the Advisory Council are: Lisa & Mo
Diamant; Betsy & Joe Nissenbaum; and Susan & Sid Rubenstein. My friends, your
dedication to our community, and the example you set for all of us is an inspiration.
Last year I spoke of how the beauty of the Hebrew language ties us together.
Though as you may recall, I got myself into a little trouble with Fred Ezekiel and French
– something about a group of friendly goats. In the ensuing months, as I have had the
pleasure and honor of sharing the bima with Rabbi Lerner and Rabbi Jacobs, I have
become more aware of the power of melody as a vehicle for worship and community
spirit. My favorite niggun comes from Psalm 98 which we sing during the Kabbalat
Shabbat service. Yram HaYam – Let the sea roar… Let the rivers applaud in exultation!
The words are inspiring, but it is the tune that stirs my soul. It brings me peace each time
I hear and sing it. Oftentimes during the week I find myself searching for it in my mind,
and when I do, a smile always comes to my face. Now, I promised my family that the
one thing I would not do as president was to sing in public. But one of the really cool
things I get to do is to ask our beloved Hazzan, David Srebnick, to add a small piece to
his Kol Nidre repertoire.
So please accept my and my family’s wishes to you for the new year. May it
bring you health and a measure of happiness, and may this be the year in which we find
the world at peace. Have an easy fast, and David, if you could take us back to your USY
days, and lead us together in song.
G’mar Hatimah Tovah
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12
Jeff Katz
Temple Israel
Norfolk, Virginia
http://www.templeisraelva.org
Shalom, and Welcome to everyone here, tonight.
I have been very excited during this holiday season. I really enjoy the privilege
that I have, to sit up on the Bimah, and to look out on the congregation, and to participate
with everyone, in the celebration of this New Year, as well as in the solemn nature of
Yom Kippur.
This evening, I have the honor of speaking to all of the members of the Temple
Israel congregation. It is a pleasure seeing everyone- some of our members, I know well,
others not so well, and some- maybe not really at all. Some of you are regulars at
Shabbat services, some of you I can anticipate seeing at programs, and others- maybe it is
even once a year.
But we all share something in common. What we share is our commitment to
Judaism and to the support of the Jewish community, through the institution that is
Temple Israel.
Tonight, I share with you, the State of the Temple. If what I share all sounds like
everything is going in the right direction- well, you should know, that it is. Fortunately
for Temple Israel, (and for me as president), we have not faced any significant, critical
challenges over the past year. This has been very fortunate for me, the board of directors,
and, as you can imagine, for my family.
Rather than crises, we have seen a year of growth and success. I do not mean to
imply that we are where we want to be. We can celebrate the successful year that is past,
but we are also looking forward to a year of rejuvenation of existing programs, and the
development of new, and innovative programs. As a vibrant, living congregation, we are
always looking to expand our programming, to continually meet, and surpass, the
expectations of our members. To serve the religious and communal needs of our
members. This is what is so exciting.
I really thought hard to come up with something important that Temple Israel is
struggling with. What about the debt? The debt!! I imagine that you want to know how
our Debt Reduction Campaign went. Let me remind you- a few years ago, Temple Israel
was in debt to the tune of $270,000. Most recently, this had been reduced to $195,000but we were paying interest of $17,000 a year, in addition to a budget line of $20,000 a
year in principal repayment.
Our treasurer, Lawrence Fleder, conceived of a Debt Reduction Campaign last
spring. He sprung it over the summer, and continued it as our High Holidays appeal.
13
Lawrence was able to obtain commitments from 13 congregants to put up
$100,000 towards a matching challenge to the rest of the congregation. You will be
pleased as I to know, that we are 90% of the way there, and that we believe that with the
help of those who have not yet had a chance to make or finalize their pledge, we should
accomplish our goal. Temple Israel’s biggest burden will soon be lifted.
I am so proud of Temple Israel- it has been a fantastic outpouring of commitment.
Elimination of our debt will be quite an accomplishment. However, even if we
had just had our regular fund drive, and still had a debt, this would still have been
considered a winning year. Money isn’t everything, and this past year, there is so much
more to be proud of. This isn’t about the money, it has to do with individual members of
Temple Israel who have demonstrated their commitment in so many other ways.
Tonight, I would like to share how some individuals have taken it upon themselves to
contribute to Temple Israel this past year.
You may recall, that during my speech last year, I proudly shared that a group of
parents had completed the renovation of our playground in back. A design was drawn
up, money donated, and the playground built, to be enjoyed by our children during last
year’s High Holidays. That was phase one.
If you came in from the back of the synagogue today, you would have seen the
framework for our new pergola, phase two of this project. Bill Speidel, our Men’s Club
president envisioned a more permanent structure for members, a place for parents to
watch their children in the playground, a gathering place for classes, as well as a structure
that would serve as our Sukkah. Though well conceived by Bill, completing the task
became a much larger job than anticipated.
In stepped Sam Ludwig, one of our teenagers, who volunteered to see the project
through to completion. With the assistance of his father, a contractor, Sam had the design
tweaked by an engineer, priced out the costs of the materials, arranged for the
construction, and this Sunday, with the continued help of Temple Israel members, will
complete this project. When I was a teenager looking for a service project to earn my
Eagle Scout as a member of Temple Israel’s Troop 17, I painted the green benches we
used to have out back- Sam Ludwig built a sukkah- I’m impressed.
When members of Temple Israel see a way to enhance our facility, they step up
and don’t just make a suggestion, they take on the project themselves. During this past
year, on their own accord, Daniel and Janet Gordon, with the design help of Bobby
Friedman, funded and refurbished the entranceway to our offices and school wing. A lot
of sweat equity and their energy went into this project.
In the same manner, just because they thought it was needed, Sam and Trudy
Rosenblatt, and Chuck and Nancy Rosenblatt asked permission to fund the repainting and
re-carpeting of our office spaces. It hadn’t been a top priority on our list, but they wanted
14
to do something in appreciation of and to the benefit of our office staff. I also want to
particularly acknowledge the behind the scenes assistance of Chuck Rosenblatt, who was
instrumental in arranging for Mark Barr construction to complete the new kitchen, in the
Brody Auditorium.
Speaking of the new kitchen-- This past year, we became aware that Deanna
Freridge, of Tocques catering was looking to run her catering business on a part-time
baiss, so that she could teach and go back to chef school, herself. Because of the already
warm relationship with between us, it seemed only natural for Temple Israel and Deanna
to enter into a mutually beneficial partnership.
Since March of this year, Deanna has been our in-house caterer. She is able to
utilize our new kitchen for her kosher catering business, and for us, she is our kitchen
manager, she assists in planning major programs such as Nefesh Yehudi, she provides us
reduced prices for other Temple programs, and her wonderful cooking enhances Shabbat
kidushim and many other Temple events. In fact, tomorrow night, we has prepared a
good part of the treats for the break fast, at the end of Yom Kippur services. The
relationship that we have with Deanna is special, and I look forward to our continued
collaboration.
I know that I am on a slippery slope when I start acknowledging people who have
shared themselves on behalf of the Temple- invariably I will leave someone out- Well, I
could give you a complete list of those who have stepped up- but I would be standing up
here for a long, long time- Still, I would like to share a few more names, just to give you
a sense of the breadth of what has been going onMark Solberg has worked steadfastly in putting together a Temple Israel trip to
Israel this December. Murray Parkin has led us through three blood drives- and I’d hear
it from him again tomorrow if I didn’t remind everyone again of the next blood drive on
October 14th- call the office to reserve your time. The youth commission, sponsored by
the local conservative synagogues, has been re-invigorated- only because Mark Nachman
took the project on personally. Beverly Tiger has taken over the membership committee,
while still chairing the Sisterhood auction and dance coming up in November.
It really is amazing- it was brought to the Board’s attention that we have not had a
librarian for awhile- one phone call later- and I have someone, with great experience,
who is seriously considering taking the library on.
I haven’t even mentioned Shabbat at Temple Israel or our educational
programming. Musical Friday night services, well attended Friday night dinners,
weekends with scholars and musicians, and warm and personable Shabbat morning
services. The highlight of our Shabbat services is the participation of our members. We
have old and young members who can lead every part of the service- and do so, on a very
regular basis.
15
And, while Shabbat services may be the focus of our religious week, Sunday
morning has been a beehive of activity, and the activities are continuing to expand.
Last week, during Rosh Hashanah services, I took a walk to see what was going
on at the other end of the building. What I saw were so many young children, engaged,
in activity. From teeny ones in babysitting, younger ones in aleph congregation, to preteens in junior congregation, at least 20 to 30 children in each group.
Well, those same kids are here on Sunday. The parents of young children are
taking over Sandler hall for play-groups and get-togethers, pre-school programming is
expanding, classes for eighth graders are being renewed.
We have had an amazing influx of young children, and they will make their mark
in the coming years.
I need to acknowledge Kathryn Morton, our Education Director, for whom
enough good things cannot be said. Also Ruth Ann Moscovitz and the amazing crew of
parents who support Kathryn and made the education wing a home for the children.
As always, us adults have had many activities, too. To mention one in particular,
we had another wonderful joint program with Calvary Revival Baptist Church this past
Shabbat Shirah. It had been my hope that our relationship with Calvary would be more
than just having performances. Phil Walzer, Milcah Wade and Robin Friedman have put
their commitment and energy into doing just that. There have been a number of meetings
now with Calvary- some of the upcoming joint programs include a “teach-in” in January,
and a joint model Seder in February.
Also, as part of Temple Israel’s commitment to Tikkun Olam, repairing the world,
in the works right now, is a project to include teens from Temple Israel and Calvary,
visiting and assisting shut-in seniors from both congregations. Our commitment to
Tikkun Olam is also evident in our yearly food drive, taking place now, under the
guidance of Leyba Blumenthal, to benefit the Jewish Family Service food pantry.
Temple Israel also cleans up Granby street on a regular basis, and there are a myriad of
activities that raise money for charity.
As I think back over the year, and look forward to the coming year- I have to be
sure to acknowledge, once again, the people who make up our office staff, in particular
Leslie Bradner, and I also want to acknowledge our appreciation for Tisha Harris, who is
leaving us after almost eight years, to move up the career ladder. I want to thank my
wonderful Executive Board, and, my never silent, Board of Directors. Rabbi Michael
Panitz for his leadership and passion, to Cantor Howard Bender, to Cantor Isaac Danker,
for their soulfull presence- it is with all of these people’s commitment, too, that Temple
Israel flourishes.
Finally, in closing, I want to say that being the President of Temple Israel has
been, and continues to be, quite an experience for me. All of the above examples, are the
16
benefits we have, due to individuals who have made Temple Israel their home, who have
not asked- what can Temple Israel do for me, but what can I do for Temple Israel. I want
to encourage each of you to further your commitment- to be involved- share your
thoughts, share your ideas- made a difference- don’t wait for anybody elseThere is one thing I would like to end with.
Sam White, a past president and founding member of Temple Israel, told me early
on, that we should have a historian- a person who would care for the historical record of
Temple Israel. A couple of months ago, Sam spoke with me, again. He said that he had
been cleaning up his office and that he had another envelope of memories to give to me.
Following up on his gentle insistence that we needed to bring together our
historical records, I brought this to the attention of the Board of Directors at our August
meeting. Once again, I was not to be let down. I have recently had the pleasure of telling
Sam, that one of our Temple members has expressed an interest in becoming our
archivist. Already, she has begun research- and has found websites and organizations
that are expressly organized to assist synagogues in developing their archives. Thanx to
Sam, this will become a reality.
Well, What was in the envelope he gave me?
Included were a number of different items. From early on, there was one of the
drafts of the first Temple Israel constitution, complete with comments from different
people along the sides- just like in the Talmud. There were also budgets from the very
early years of the Temple- the budget was $29,000, dues were $60 for a family. Also
included were programs from Sisterhood and Men’s club events.
Of particular interest to me, was the program that was printed for the tenth
anniversary of the founding of Temple Israel, 1963.
Inside of the program, was the presidential message, written by my father, Carl
Katz.
He wrote about how quickly time had passed since Temple Israel was but a lot on
Granby Street, full of overgrown weeds. He wrote, that at the time of the 10th
anniversary, there were over 400 children attending Sunday School, over 30 Bar and Bat
Mitzvah’s a year, and hardly enough seats in the sanctuary to accommodate the entire
congregation.
I want to end my speech tonight, with the words of my father, on the tenth
anniversary of Temple Israel, forty-four years ago. Words that I think, should continue to
guide usOur goal for the future of our Temple should be for an institution ever more
dedicated to our religious and educational heritage.
17
Our goal for our membership is that they fully participate in our Temple activities
and broaden their contribution to the Jewish and civic community as a whole.
I pray that in the next decade, my family and I, and all of us, may continue to
have the blessings and joy of participation in the continued spiritual growth of Temple
Israel, signed, Carl J. Katz, President.
And, seconded by me.
L’Shana Tova Tikatevu
Eric J. Weinstein, President
Temple Beth Sholom (280)
Framingham, MA 01701
Visit our award-winning website at
www.beth-sholom.org
Good morning, Shana Tovah...
Sitting up here as I do, it’s nice to see people come in to the
sanctuary and join in the service. It’s nice to see you greet each
other so warmly. What you probably don't know is that we can hear
what you're saying up here. I can hear all of you say how wonderful it
looks, how it fits in and how much better it is this year than last. Of
course, you're all commenting on my new suit...
18
Last year, I spoke about the portion of that week, and how we could
all learn a lesson from Abraham’s greeting of three strangers, while
he himself was recovering from his late in life circumcision. While
Abraham played the role of gracious host, having his wife Sarah
make a meal from the choicest of ingredients for the three weary
travelers, the travelers also were performing a mitzvah of visiting the
sick, and taking Abraham’s mind off of his discomfort. I suggested to
you all that we too could accomplish the same goal by helping out
with the caring volunteers and I encourage you to continue to do so.
One of the easiest, most effortless things you can do to help support
someone is to attend minyan. I know, people get sick of hearing
about minyan. But, as one of the core value of the temple, minyan
encouragement is a message worth repeating.
As someone who was raised in a “Reform” environment, minyan was
not within my vernacular. As someone lucky enough to not have
needed a minyan to say Kaddish, I can’t say that I embraced the
concept until recently. I have asked people “why” they attend minyan
and collectively they have told me “[i]t makes me feel better to go and
say Kaddish.”
19
People often do not understand the calming effect of the minyan; if
you have never needed it, then thankfully, how would you? However,
it truly makes people feel better saying the prayers. Like a yoga
“mantra”, the rhythm of the Kaddish following a unison “Aleinu” can
be like leaning on the shoulder of an old friend when you need it the
most.
I am sure there are many of you out there willing to come; some of
you have signed on to our “minyan makers” email on our awardwinning web site (www.beth-sholom.org). But many of you have not
and I am sure there are good reasons.
Those that have never needed one are often intimidated by minyan.
Maybe it’s all the praying, maybe it’s the time commitment, maybe it’s
the way you’re dressed or maybe it’s a fear of Hebrew or you think it’s
just for men. I assure you, the only thing to fear is fear itself.
If you just want to be somewhere you are wanted and needed,
without any heavy lifting, minyan is the place. Sit on the bench, stand
in the corner, stand in the aisle, lean against the wall. Nobody cares
what you are wearing and nobody cares that you chose a baseball
cap (even with a Yankees logo) over a yarmulke. Your mere
20
presence shows that you want to reflect, to help, and support those
other congregants in their time of need. People appreciate the deeper
sense of community and connection to each other they experience
from attending the minyan. There is something about seeing people
daily over a long period of time that is just not replaceable. It's like
going to Starbucks and getting to know the staff so they pour your
drink even before you order it.
As a fully egalitarian congregation, women and men are equal in
every respect. Come, stand and be counted-minyan is waiting for
you. Like Abraham and the weary travelers, the messengers of G-d,
come help support people when they need it the most.
A few weeks ago, Josh and I toured the George Eastman house in
Rochester, NY. As many know, Eastman was the founder of Kodak,
and a tremendous philanthropist.
As we walked through the
museum, we passed the "Chagall Gallery". I asked the tour guide-is
this Marc Chagall, the artist’s, gallery? She responded "no, it’s
21
Steven Chagall, the writer." I said "I'm not familiar with his work.
What did he write?" To which she responded "a check."
I find this line funny, and there is a lot of truth in humor. But there is
so much more implicit in someone’s charitable giving than just the
physical act of writing a check.
In Parsha Va-Yak-Hel, Moses reaches out to the people Israel for the
building of the Mishkan, or Holy Tabernacle. Moses says “[t]ake from
among you gifts to the Lord; everyone whose heart so moves him
shall bring gifts to the Lord…” and “let all among you who are skilled
come and make all that the Lord has commanded….” You see,
Moses knew, through G-d, that people who give money and people
who give service are no different-both do so because their “heart”
directs them. They really cannot exist without each other, and each
must be a valued member of the tribe.
The Mishkan was built to demanding specifications and with beautiful
material…with each member of the community contributing
something from their pocket, or their skill set. It was built so that our
people, though spread out across the desert, would have a
22
communal place to pray and celebrate their Judaism. We too, have
built ourselves a beautiful home, albeit an older one now, but it is a
place where we can all come together and pray.
Over the past year, you may have noticed several updates to our
building, with some more obvious than others. Though I would like to
think you like my suit, I know that you all glory in the comfort and style
of the new sanctuary seats and are likely more impressed with that
material than worsted wool. You also remain dry, and illuminated, by
our new roof and skylight, and our children enjoy the benefit of the
new playground.
None of these improvements could have been accomplished without
your generous contributions of both money, and skill. Though there
are many people to thank for this needed renovation, most
importantly, your new seats are the culmination of the vision of Lee
Bauer, the immediate Past President, who was able to not just
envision the project, but coordinate the efforts to fund it, and Marc
Shapiro, the guardian of this building, who coordinated the efforts and
labor to finish it just two days ago. Even though Marc worked so hard
23
to get this done on time, he still prefers the folding seats in Row FF.
At least Lee and Stu can enjoy them in Row C.
In October 1988, I went to my first High Holiday service at an
Orthodox shul, where Elayne grew up in Brockton. Other than not
being able to sit with her, the atmosphere seemed strangely familiar
to most synagogues because the congregants were all asking the
same question: when is the President going to ask for money.
At Elayne’s shul, their method of raising money was “auctionstyle.” The President stood on the bima and asked people to shout
out their pledges, to be paid after the holidays. The Rabbi stood right
next to him, glaring at the Congregation. Of course, the strategy was
to get people caught up in the moment, and that the “Epsteins”
wouldn’t want to be shown up by the “Weinsteins” (the names have
been changed to protect the innocent, and the guilty.)
Here at Temple Beth Sholom, we choose not to publicly
pressure, cajole, embarrass or otherwise pressure you to donate.
Instead of an auction, and replacing the Kol Nidre appeal, the
leadership of the temple developed and implemented our annual
“Strength to Strength” campaign (known in shorthand as “S2S).
24
For the Jewish people, the word “Strength” is quite apt. The
Random House Unabridged Dictionary (2006) says, “strength is the
inherent capacity to manifest energy, to endure, to resist.” We, as a
people, have certainly endured through our share of oppression,
relying on our inner resolve, and capacity to survive. We endure
through our community, through our congregation, but providing this
community comes at a price. In addition to your dues and tuition
payments, the temple needs your help in maintaining our strength.
When Moses made his plea for contributions to the building of the
Mishkan, the people responded in tremendous fashion. At some
point, all the artisans went to Moses to tell him that the response was
overwhelming, and they have more than is needed. Moses
proclaimed, “let no man or woman make further effort towards gifts
for the sanctuary.” I assure you, I will never utter those words,
though I would love to.
Though our own congregational journey has taken us through several
buildings, we have established and maintained community
throughout, and you have constantly responded, both in your
volunteer spirit and your generous contributions. Like the Jews in the
desert, we too need community to support and encourage each other.
25
The American Heritage Dictionary (2006) defines “strength” as a
“capacity or potential for effective action.” With your generous
support of S2S, and the other activities of the synagogue, our
capacity and potential is unlimited.
I would like to leave you with a few thoughts about the Shofar. Seven
years ago, Rabbi Greene asked me to learn to blow the Shofar.
Though I had not done it before, he had some reason to know that I
could. Frankly, I knew nothing about the shofar, other than what I
learned in religious school so many years ago. Rabbi Greene leant
me a shofar, wrote down the prayers and notes, and with some
practice, I learned how to create the tone--the shrill, piercing clarion
call of the shofar.
But there is more to the shofar than just learning the technique of
blowing. . Each of us has a skill set that we can bring to the templethe shofar just happens to be mine that I offer to the temple, and I am
thrilled and honored to be able to do so. But the true mitzvah of Rosh
Hashanah and Yom Kippur is in the “hearing” or “listening” of the call.
The call of the shofar is associated with many things, among them a
call of warning, a call to war, a call to congregate, and a call to
26
freedom. I had the pleasure of blowing the shofar at the very first day
of classes at the MetroWest Jewish Day School several years ago
(as a call to study and learn), and recently blew the shofar at the
dedication of the playground outside (a call to unite and play). Many
of you recall Joshua, the stonecutter (played by Jon Derek in the Ten
Commandments) blowing his shofar upon the departure of the slaves
from Egypt. A call of renewal, to begin their lives as free men.
In preparation for today, I happened upon the following story: At the
turn of the century, Rabbi Jacob Joseph came from the Eastern
European city of Vilna to assume the pulpit of a prestigious New York
congregation. A learned man with a phenomenal memory, he could
speak extemporaneously, quoting at length from a variety of sources.
When he spoke, Jews from all over came to hear him.
Sadly, the rabbi suffered a stroke, recovered slowly and was released
from the hospital just before Rosh Hashanah. His family and friends
tried to dissuade him from speaking at High Holy Day worship that
year but he insisted.
27
At the service, he began: "The Talmud says..." There was silence.
Again he tried: "The Talmud says..." He started once more: "The
Talmud says..." No one uttered a sound. No one could understand
why he kept repeating those three words.
The rabbi sobbed as he was led off the pulpit. A few weeks later, he
sent a letter to his congregants in which he explained that in spite of
all his preparation, his mind went blank when he started his address.
Only a few months before, he could have given a learned discourse
without notes, and now he could not even remember what the subject
was.
But, at the end, he added these words: "See what can happen to a
human being in a split second. Today, anything is possible; tomorrow,
who knows where we may find ourselves! Value each day as a
precious gift."
This story is a powerful reminder of how quickly time passes and how
important it is to act on the message of the shofar. To truly benefit
from its shrill tone or clarion call, you must hear the wake-up call that
summons everyone to make good use of each moment. . As we
begin each new year, the shofar reminds us to renew our faith and
28
begin our new year with a clean slate. A chance to begin our lives
anew, again.
Perhaps this past year, you meant to do more here, come to more
events, come to more minyans, come to more services. I encourage
you all to heed the call now: renew your commitment and make good
use of each moment here at Beth Sholom. Like the builders and
donors of the Mishkan, let your wise heart and wise head guide you.
Come to temple, give of yourself and your skills and resources. Even
though the building is not adorned with gold, silver and copper like
the Mishkan, the shofar calls to you, calling for renewal in your faith,
in your spirit and in your commitment to Beth Sholom.
Shana tova.
29
Karolin Lipman
Congregation Beth Shalom (420)
Wilmington, DE www.bethshalomwilmington.org
Good Yontov. I am Karolin Lipman, the first of your co-presidents to
have the privilege to address you on this most holy of holy days. And
I begin by referencing one of the most awesome moments in Jewish
History.
When the children of Israel had their backs up against the sea and
the Egyptian chariots were bearing down on them, slowed temporarily
by the pillar of fire miracle, there was a need for instant and effective
leadership. The Torah Text (and the Charlton Heston movie) depict
God splitting the sea through the outstretched staff of Moses. There
is yet another story told of the Red Sea crossing. It is in the form of a
Midrash, a Rabbinic story created to emphasize the learnings of a
portion of the Torah. The story is told of Nachshon, Aaron's brother
in law.
Anyway, Nachshon was known for taking the lead and often being
first. He was the first of the princes to make an offering at the
dedication of the Tabernacle. But much earlier, on the banks of the
Red Sea, the Rabbis tell of a frightened people and of God's test,
asking the people to wade into the Red Sea before it parted. What
person would wade into a miles long sea on just a promise from God
that he would be safe? If your answer is Nachshon, you would be
correct.
The story goes on that Nachshon waded into the sea and kept going,
even though there was no change until the water was almost over his
head.Some say he dove in, giving his full faith to God. No one
knows.remember this is a Midrash. Of course the waters parted, the
people were saved and the long journey to the Promised Land was
underway. The rabbis point out that it took leadership to obtain
freedom, not only from Moses (who called the shots), but also from
Nachshon who had faith and took action.
So, here at Congregation Beth Shalom we certainly have taken action
and our initiatives need both leaders and dedicated believers such as
Nachshon.
30
Karin and I have for the past 1 1/2 year, been surrounded by such
talented giving people in our congregation. People who step forward
to create and plan programs and others who show up and participate
in the untested and make them successful.
Leaders often make decisions on what is good for a group before an
idea is proven.
I'd like to recognize some of these leaders tonight, share where we
are, and where we are going at Congregation Beth Shalom. To be a
leader, or a Nachshon, means that sometimes you have to stand and
be counted. So I am going to ask something a little unusual of you
tonight.
Soon, I am going to ask you, if you are physically capable of doing
so, to actually stand and be counted. Your cue will be when I
mention an activity or a program in which you participated over this
past year. Now when I do this, I ask that you remain standing until I
am done. I promise it won't take as long as the Amidah.
The past presidents of Congregation Beth Shalom. (Please raise).
You have all been tremendous resources to Karin and me. You've
shared accomplishments, given us guidance and support and
continue to be there for us.
Our executive board and our general board are made up of incredible
leaders. Just think about the commitment each person makes.at least
60 hours a year just for board meetings. Then there are the
subcommittees and special projects and many more volunteer hours
at all of our synagogue functions.
I'm going to ask you to please stand if you were involved in the
31
planning of or in attendance at any of these programs.
If you were among the 130 people who sang or just attended Hazzan
Horwitz's Harmonious Hanukkah
The Coffee House, our very successful night of entertainment and a
great fundraiser for the shul. Maybe it was the coffee or the great
music, but no one wanted to leave.
If you attended one or more of our five brunches over the year.
Some 250 congregants attended to hear from experts and compelling
speakers and enjoy the creations of our kitchen Klub.Yum Yum.
Our kitchen klub.dedicated congregants who know the success of
most programs depends on food. And this club takes such good care
of us. Yum Yum.
As does the Chesed Network. This is a group of good-hearted
people who reach out to many of us in need of help and comfort
during difficult times. This group is a source of information and of
immediate action. It is a real blessing for all of us.
If you are in any way connected with our United Synagogue
Framework for Excellence Hebrew school, our dedicated 11 teachers,
5 aids and 105 students and 45 families.
If you stand or stood with our minyan this year.stand now.
If you come to Third Fridays.boy is today a surprise.
We've attracted approximately 20 young people a month for services
at
locations all over our region from Chadds Ford (in PA) to Newark (in
Delaware) and all points in between.
If you have led part of our Shabbat or other religious services or
32
chanted Torah or Haftorah, been our Gabbi or serve on the religious
life committee (planning ritual events in our building, enforcing
Kashrut policy or assigning High Holy Day honors).Thank you for
your preparation and for sharing your gift. Please rise.
And what about our High Holy Day committee, your efforts, your
efforts have helped make our our return to our home an enourmous
success.
Are you one of the eight members of our Cantor search committee
who has dedicated hours, shared your hopes and dreams for our next
cantor to lead us in joyful, spirited music.
Are you one of the dedicated members of our congregation who has
spent hours
in summer-time rehearsal as a member of our choir, in order to make
these
services more festive and enjoyable? Please raise.
Did you attend Imun?... a program for service leaders... became the
sixth congregant to make to committed to attend IMUN, a wonderful
program to foster lay service leadership, teaching proper nusach
(melodies), and Torah and Haftorah reading skills.
You sang, tapped your feet, clapped your hands and let loose at the
Interfaith Service for Martin Luther King Junior. You can't do any of
that now, but you may still rise if you were there.
More than 50 people attended and Interfaith Seder and experienced
the holiday from different perspectives.
Rabbi Beals led the service and many of our interfaith friends
attended. The service was seasoned with a tasty meal prepared by
our congregants.
Do you attend any Keruv programs? This committees' initiative is to
33
help Interfaith families feel more at home at Congregation Beth
Shalom.
100 women attended a celebratory Passover sedar and shared
unique readings focusing on the female perspective of our
contributions to the Passover
story.
Many of us may not remember the Purim service and Megillah
Reading because of Merrill's and Tammy's Margaritas. I'm not
certain, but I think the Three Amigos led the service doing
impersonations of the Rabbi, Hazzan and Rosh
Roland.
3 dozen of you enrolled in our new Adult Education Mini-mester
classes and learned the Shabbat service, the Jewish Calendar,
Hebrew readings and Conversational Hebrew, Torah Trope, and
more. You learned many things, but also valued the time with
superior educators, including our clergy.
Did you participate in Bar or Bat Mitzvah training or go to a meeting
for the B'nai Mitzvah families this year? Were you enrolled in the
Introduction to Judaism course?
How about our series of winter movies sponsored by the Kraft
Foundation, seen by over 300 people,Were you at a program
sponsored by the Kraft Education Committee? Perhaps
you were at S'lichot services two weeks ago and experienced the
movie "Paper Clips." Maybe you met the assistant principal of the
school featured in the film, along with the other nearly 300 that
attended! This was a phenomenal experience and we have many of
you to thank.
Did you go on this year's Camping Trip? We had twice the
attendance of last year. 25 people had a wonderful time with perfect
weather. Everything.including the weather was organized by Dina
Lipshcultz.
34
Did you go to the Blue Rocks game ...please raise..did you watch
Seth Ebner throw out the first pitch?
While it was a little more difficult to do this year, did you support the
Gift Shop? It is important. You can't really have a Jewish home
without Jewish things.
We have a new Kadima chapter, a youth group for 5-8th graders. Did
you go to the Pool Party? Bowling? Chocolate Seder? There over a
dozen at each of the event.
And, after years without a Sisterhood, many of you decided to put an
end to that drought. The new sisterhood now boasts 107 members
and is gearing up its programming year. If you have attended or are
planning to be part of this exciting Sisterhood group, you are invited
now to stand.
A new Kadima chapter..A new Sisterhood.These are both initiatives
that would make Nachshon proud.
As would almost everything involved in this synagogue reconstruction
effort.
There are many talented leaders who took us to this point and who
will help us complete this huge task of constructing and outfitting this
building.
All of us, however, were asked to be Nachshon, to wade into the
deep water of major fund raising, the details of a complicated
construction project and the logistics of operating a congregation
outside a synagogue building.
Please stand if you are on the building committee, the capital
campaign committee, and the landscape, way-signage and library
committees.
35
Did you host one of the (ten) parlor meetings in your home or attend
a parlor meeting?
And, were you one of the more then 300 families who have
contributed so far to the capital campaign that has raised an
unprecedented six million dollars? Are you a family that will help take
us the rest of the way toward our nine million dollar goal?
Incidentally, there are plenty of dedication opportunities remaining
and it is a great way to be part of our congregation's
next chapter.
By now, almost all of you, who are able to do so, should be standing,
but if not, we ask you to stand now and be counted. Be a part of all
these people. Join these leaders who make things happen at
Congregation Beth Shalom.
Be a Nachshon. Have faith, have spirit, jump in and take us to the
Promised Land.
You can now all be seated, but also please give your attention to my
co-president and one of the most courageous leaders with whom I
have had the privilege to serve, Karin Karel.
Good Yom Tov.
36
Miyom Kipurim Zeh
Sam Kamens
Highland Park Conservative Temple – Congregation Anshe Emeth
Kol Nidre 2007/5768
http://www.hpct-cae.org.
The story is told of a wise Rabbi who was called upon to settle disputes
between the residents of his village. One day, a student from another village
was visiting and observing the Rabbi as he was hearing a case. After the
first villager presented his argument, the Rabbi said, “You’re right.” The
second villager protested, “You haven’t heard my side of the story yet!”, and
proceeded to argue his case. The Rabbi turned to the second villager and
said “You’re right”. The student observer exclaimed, “Rabbi, you just told
both of them that they are right, when they are in opposition to each other!”
to which the Rabbi responded, “You’re right, too!”
This is an old joke, but (as with most Jewish jokes), it contains a kernel of
truth. Our tradition is filled with instances like this one, where there are two
sides to a question, and both are considered valid. I suppose you could call
it the “two Jews, three opinions” principle.
We at HPCT-CAE are intimately familiar with this principle, because we
live it every Shabbat through our system of dual minyanim. This works for
us halachically because our movement embraces the idea of more than one
right answer. The Committee on Jewish Law and Standards usually
endorses multiple rulings as consistent with halacha, leaving it to individual
Rabbis to do what is right in their congregations.
37
The Conservative movement didn’t think this up all on its own, of course.
The idea of more than one right answer dates back thousands of years, to our
earliest sources.
The most famous Talmudic example of this principle is the relationship
between Hillel and Shammai. Hillel and Shammai were on opposite sides of
almost every issue – as a matter of fact, the Talmud records over 300
differences of opinion between them or between their disciples. And while
the Rabbis usually side with the more liberal Hillel, they say that in the time
of the Mashiach, we will be ready to follow the more stringent rulings of
Shammai. In all cases, both opinions are held to be valid, and the
adversaries remain friendly; we are taught that the daughters of Beit Hillel
married the sons of Beit Shammai, and vice versa;.
The notion that there’s more than one way to do things manifests itself in
many other aspects of our religious life.
The Tanach has numerous instances where there is a difference between how
a word is written and how it is read. This is known as “K’tiv” versus “Kri”.
The straightforward explanation of this difference is that there were errors in
transcription when the text was codified. This is easy to believe, given how
difficult it is to write a Torah without making a mistake.
What is curious, though, is that instead of fixing these transcription errors,
sofrim are required to copy them into each Sefer that they write. I guess you
could say that the Sofer is allowed to make mistakes as long as they’re the
same mistakes that their predecessors made, but is not allowed to make new
ones.
So why not fix the errors? The simplest reason is another favorite principle
of ours: “tradition”. Since the people who finalized the contents of the
38
Torah left these differences there, we don’t want to change them. Plus, the
ktiv versus kri differences are a rich source of interpretation for us as we
attempt to understand the meaning of the Torah. So they remain in place,
much to the chagrin of those of us who leyn.
The Amidah is filled with differences in wording, usually related to the
calendar.
In deference to the religious calendar, a number of changes are made in the
Amida during the Aseret Y’mei Tshuvah. We say “HaMelech HaKadosh”
instead of “HaEl HaKadosh” at the end of the Kedusha, and we say
“HaMelech HaMishpat” during the weekday Amida instead of “HaMelech
Ohev Tzedakah UMishpat”. These changes pick up on the themes of Rosh
Hashana, in which God is referred to as our King and as a judge.
Changes to the Amidah also come from the agricultural calendar –
specifically the seasons in Israel. We say “Mashiva HaRuach UMorid
HaGashem” and “V’Ten Tal UMatar Livracha” during the rainy season, and
“Morid Hatal” and “V’Ten Bracha” during the dry months.
And of course, there’s the “two Jews, three opinions” aspect. At Shacharit
the last Bracha in the Amida is Sim Shalom, while at Minha and Ma’ariv it’s
Shalom Rav. This difference is due to a debate between the collators of the
Siddur over which one to include. Fittingly, they chose both.
My focus on this duality started with a look at the Kol Nidre paragraph that
the Hazzan chanted for us (just a few minutes ago) (last night). Kol Nidre is
not a spiritual prayer, but rather a legal formula. Briefly, its intent is to
absolve us of responsibility from any vows that we have not been able to
fulfill, so that we can enter into the confessionals of Yom Kippur with a
39
clean slate. But our liturgy actually offers two versions of the formula
which have distinctly different implications.
The traditional Kol Nidre includes the phrase “Miyom Kippurim Zeh, Ad
Yom Kipurim HaBa Aleynu” – nullifying our vows from this Yom Kippur
until next. This essentially gives us a “Get out of Jail Free” card – any vows
we have not yet made are already null and void before we even make them.
The authors of the Mahzor Hadash modify the phrase to read “Miyom
Kipurrim SheAvar Ad Yom Kippurim HaZeh” – from last Yom Kippur to
this one. This fits better with many of our modern sensibilities; if we’re
going to nullify our vows, at least let us make them first!
These two phrases in Kol Nidre took on a new significance for me as I began
to think about what I would speak to you about (tonight) (today). Just as our
Rabbis included both Sim Shalom and Shalom Rav in our Amida, and both
the Ktiv and Kri in the Torah, it seems to me that we should think about both
forms of Kol Nidre. On the Yamim Nora’im, we look back on the previous
year, and at the same time we look forward to the next. In that spirit, I’d like
to take a few minutes to reflect on this in the context of our shul.
Last year we had the fire and its aftermath. This year we will begin to
rebuild.
Last year we completed the merger of our synagogue with Congregation
Anshe Emeth. This year we will continue to integrate the former Anshe
Emeth members into our congregational family.
40
Last year, due to the hard work of our volunteers, we cemented our
synagogue’s commitment to a dual minyan system on Shabbat and Yom
Tov. This year, we will offer classes and one-on-one assistance to give new
people the tools and the opportunity to participate.
Last year, the American Jerusalem Academy offered us educational and
cultural enrichment in spite of the challenge of operating in multiple venues.
This year, with the Temple as our home base, we will expand our offerings.
Last year, our Junior Congregation committee expanded its focus from
Shabbat and Yom Tov services for children to include family-oriented
events. This year, the committee has renamed itself the Family
Programming committee, with a goal of meeting the religious and social
needs of our children and their families.
Last year, our USY and Kadima members were active in chapter, regional,
and international activities. This year they will involve more children in the
wonderful opportunities that are available to them.
Last year the Men’s Club and Sisterhood provided valuable support to our
Temple family through their ongoing activities and fundraising efforts. This
year, in addition to their individual calendars, they are branching out by
planning programs with each other and with other Temple organizations.
Last year, we shared in the Simchas of our Temple family. This year, in
addition to celebrating our own milestones, we will join with the entire
Jewish world to mark the 60th anniversary of the founding of the modern
state of Israel.
41
Last year, we shared in the grief of our families who suffered losses. This
year we pledge to continue to support our friends in their time of need.
Miyom Kipurim She’Avar ad Yom Kipurim HaZeh – from last Yom Kippur
to this one we have prayed together, learned together, celebrated together,
and mourned together. In short – we have shared our Jewish lives.
Miyom Kippurim Zeh ad Yom Kipurim HaBa – from this Yom Kippur to
next, we will continue to invest our time, energy, efforts, and support in our
shul and in our wider community.
I hope you find meaning in your personal reflections on this Yom Kippur,
and I wish you good health, happiness, and success in the coming year.
Gmar Hatima Tova – May you and your families be sealed in the book of
life.
-------------------------------------------------------------------Roger Cohen’s Speech: Sutton Place Synagogue, 235 E. 51st Street, NY, NY
http://www.suttonplacesynagogue.org
Good Yomtov
During the 2000 Presidential campaign, Senator Joseph Lieberman took his
campaign to New York. As he always did while he was on the road, he went
to Shabbat services with his family at the local synagogue. After services
while standing with the Synagogue President greeting people, someone
asked if he was a bissel meshugah—just a little bit crazy---to run for Vice
President. Senator Lieberman responded “You don’t have to be crazy to run
42
for President or Vice President of the United States but you absolutely have
to be crazy to be a shul president.”
With all due respect to Joseph Lieberman, I whole-heartedly disagree.
As I stand before you to deliver my first Kol Nidre speech as President of
Sutton Place Synagogue, I am both proud and energized to lead this
Congregation. I am proud because we truly are a great Congregation that is
well respected in the Jewish community. I am energized because of people
like the Rabbi who inspires me to do what I feel is important and the Cantor
who is a warm and loving person.
So who is Roger Cohen?
Why did he decide to become President?
Congregation important to him?
Is Roger Cohen a little meshugah?
Is the Synagogue and
The answers to these questions on who I am and the importance of the
Synagogue to me, I will cover in my speech.
Is Roger Cohen a little meshugah- you can figure out for yourself.
In 1999, my mother had passed away. I had determined that I would go to
Synagogue and say Kaddish. I chose a place close to work.
I walked in off the street not knowing anybody. I was a stranger. I started to
attend the minyan and met people like Freddy Goldberger, Leslie Braun, Lee
Malkin, John Lewin, Paul Zuckerman and Harvey Litt. Needless to say I
was welcomed with open arms by them and by Rabbi Schranz. Services
were warm. Breakfasts were lively. Often, we did not have the 10 men to
make a minyan. Freddy, Paul and the Rabbi would go out on to 51 st Street
to find the shoemaker down the block to make that 10th man or to see
whether Harry Witlin was already at work across the street. I thought to
myself that this is a wonderful place where members are so caring-that they
would go out on the street to help a stranger who wasn’t even a member.
The minyan was therapeutic for me and it was good to talk to other people
who had lost a loved one, good to share a cup of coffee and discuss world
events, it was good to get other people’s perspectives on Jewish issues.
43
At the end of the period of mourning, I was wondering what I could do to
repay all the people that made me feel at home. I decided to become a
member of SPS and go to the minyan so that I could repay the mitzvah that
had been done for me.
I found myself wanting to come to services, wanting to talk to my minyan
friends and of course the Rabbi. I found myself getting more involved. I
joined a Committee, I attended Shabbat services with my wife, I went to a
Sukkot dinner, I went to a Passover Seder at the Synagogue, I began to enjoy
this Congregation, this Community.
In 2004, I became Treasurer, and joined the Executive Committee and the
Board of Trustees. I learned about the administrative and financial affairs of
the Synagogue. This is indeed a business with 22 employees, two schools,
an administrative office and a hectic schedule of events.
Last year was a particular trying year for Linda and myself.
My wife, Linda, had cared for her elderly parents for a number of years. She
had done everything possible to keep them comfortable and at home.
Linda’s mom passed away last November 2nd and her dad passed away last
December 1st. My eldest daughter, Heather was married in between those
dates on November 18th. These 29 days were incredible. We look back
now and wonder how we were able to handle all these events. There was
one constant in our lives during not only that period but the times before and
after. That constant was Rabbi Schranz.
He was and is warm, caring and supportive. He called Linda repeatedly,
counseling her when she wasn’t sure of the right things to do. You never
know when you will need a Congregation or a Rabbi but certainly last year
both this Congregation and Rabbi were there for Linda and I.
The other interesting part of last year was that we were part of the group that
went on the UJA mission to Israel in April. Several members of the
Synagogue and the Rabbi were on the trip. We visited Tel Aviv, Jerusalem,
Masada and Jaffa. We prayed at the wall, visited schools that were
educating Ethiopian children, were guests at an Israeli military base and saw
the security fence in East Jerusalem. Everyone should visit Israel as often as
they can to support our fellow Jews. What made this trip particularly special
44
were the people that we were with. We were like family. The Kaminitskys,
the Rossners, the Kaminers, Barry Gorman, Mark Wiener, Carol Mazin,
Harold Fishman and the Rabbi were on the trip and are all here tonight. We
looked out for each other, we cared for each other. When Linda went to the
Wall to say Kaddish, she was supported and hugged by our Temple
members. When Mark wanted to spend more time at the Wall on Friday
night, we refused to return with the UJAgroup as darkness came. The UJA
tour leaders were upset because we would be returning without security
guards to the hotel, but we didn’t care since we were united as a group. We
were a congregation—we were a family. Families go on vacations
together—and as families often do—come back and say never again. We
came back together and said what trip should we do next.
In the defining periods for me and my involvement with Sutton Place
Synagogue-my mom’s death, my in laws death, my children’s wedding and
my trip to Israel, I have learned that this Synagogue, this Community is a
place where we are here for each other for Simchas and for tragedies. We
support each other. The Rabbi and our friends have been here for Linda and
myself during our good and bad times and it is my intent to be there for
others.
I thus agreed to become President. Am I crazy—I really don’t think so.
I want to thank Mark Wiener for all his hard work. Yasha-Koach. He has
provided us with structure, he has developed policies and procedures,
implemented strong financial and administrative management and made us
into a first class organization. One of our Vice Presidents, Marty
Rosengarten said to me last night that the one person he would like his son
to be like is you. Mark is one of the most humble and decent people that I
know and I am fortunate to call him a friend. Mark, I know people don’t
know who I am yet—but they certainly know you. You have given me, you
have given the Synagogue a foundation to build upon and I appreciate that.
I would also like to thank Phil Sassower, President Emeritus, who has
agreed to take on the chairmanship of a newly formed subcommittee. We
will be working to establish the Sutton Place Synagogue Endowment Fund
to ensure that those who follow us will have a strong synagogue to rely
upon.
45
I would also like to thank the volunteers that keep this place going.
Our Synagogue Committee that is led by Jay Schulman and Harold Alper.
They have worked diligently with their committee to make these High
Holiday services meaningful and the services throughout the year successful.
Harold Alper will be our Chatan Bereshit on Simchat Torah.
I want to thank
Carole Mazin and Harold Fischman for managing the parallel service
Allen Schwartz for controlling the honors and aliyahs today and throughout
the year.
Anita Horowitz for the Usher Squad
I want to thank our ushers during the year—Flora Cosman, Alan Ernheim
and Lillian Zimmerman. They are here at 9 am in the morning and stay on
their feet throughout the service.
I want to thank our Finance Committee that is led by co-chairs Ed Weinstein
and Marty Rosengarten for all their hard work. This is the Committee that I
have been associated with and truly appreciate their efforts.
Thanks to Larry Lieberman for following in my footsteps as Treasurer.
Thanks to Carol Mazin and Vera Winitch for the hard work on the
Programming Committee. Vera is the one that directed the Purim Sphiel last
year. Carol will be our Chalah Torah on Simchat Torah.
.
Carol and Vera are working on the schedule and have some great ideas
planned.
We start this Sunday with our Super Sukkah Sunday where we will make
decorations that will be hung in the Sukkah.
The MOVIE FORUM and the Theatre chats will continue.
The Sukkot Dinner, The Purim Sphiel and Kristallnacht will continue.
Carol and Vera also want one or two really different events to be planned.
There may be a trip to the Jewish Museum, there may be a fun social night
like a sock hop. I have been pushing this group hard and I know that they
will deliver
46
Our motto is Feel the Spirit—Know the Joy. This is a Program committee
of 31 people that will definitely accomplish that motto. Please come join us.
We have an adult education committee co-chaired by Charlotte Frank and
Phyllis Klein.
We have a full calendar of events planned. The questionnaire that was sent
to our members came back to us with some great ideas. Lesley Hoffman
reviewed the ideas and with Minna and the committee decided on the
following classes:
Rabbi Schranz will do his short story class in the afternoons.
By popular demand, Rabbi Schranz will be re-establishing his highly
successful contemporary jewish issues class.
Cantor Keren will lead his torah and haftorah class
We will have a new class led by Avi Olitzky----Salt in the Winds—A major
look at minor jewish biblical figures
We will be having a Pilates class.
We will be planning a Yiddish class and even may have a Yiddish club.
You can truly see that we have filled up the calendar. For these events to be
successful however, we need for you to enroll.
We have an outstanding religious school committee led by Dr. Shari
Pochapin. Shari and her committee with the assistance of our competent and
much loved principal, Lesley Hoffman have just established a Sunday school
for kindergarteners. The building is now open on Sundays during the school
year. We also have a new attendance record of 61 students..
We also have a great nursery school committee led by Merrie Frankel.
Merrie is the type of person that never says no to any task asked of her.
Our membership committee is led by Dr. Anita Kaminer. Over the last two
weeks we have had a table at two street fairs to inform our local neighbors of
SPS. It is everyone’s job to spread the word, get members and also retain
members. As incentive at last Sunday’s street fair, we had a free raffle
where we offered one year’s membership as the prize. Thirty five people
signed up.
Our Vice Presidents, Alan Fergang have taken on responsibility for the
hardship committee and Jonathan Sack for the personnel and policy
47
practices committee. Richard Coopersmith who is the Chair of the Legal
Committee has already advised me on a number of issues and have called
upon Richard to be my special advisor.
Our Building Committee is ably co-chaired by Barry Levitus and Rick
Kaminer. These are new co-chairs and they are ably assisted by Ernest
Blum who has a lot of experience and history with our facilities and he
graciously provides his assistance.
We have a lot of plans for the coming year but I have saved a very big
achievement for last.
Our Womens League that has been reestablished under the auspices of Randi
Cannata.
This are now approximately 100 members enrolled. Randi is supported by
an Executive Board of Anita Horowitz, Susan Rosner, Elizabeth Gittman,
Sonia Elisha and Barbara Bailin. All of these people are here tonight.
Over the next few months there are a number of events planned.
October 23, 2007 Women’s League Head Covering Workshop
October 29, 2007 Women’s Wine Tasting
I hope I haven’t left any of our volunteers out. If I have I apologize.
I would like to talk about the Clergy who enables us to plan and do all these
wonderful events.
First our Rabbi. Rabbi Schranz is the face of the Synagogue. He is the force
that keeps us together. I have already stated what the Rabbi has meant to
Linda and I over the past year. One of our members, Esther Wertheim said
48
the following to me on Rosh Hashonah. She indicated that she had been
either a member or a guest at many synagogues. Rabbi Schranz’s sermons
and lectures are like no other Rabbis. His speeches are
INCITEFUL
THOUGHT PROVOKING
TOPICAL
We see evidence of this each week and on the holidays.
Esther then added
Rabbi Schranz is
HUMANE
COMPASSIONATE
UNDERSTANDING
This is much more than a job to the Rabbi. Everything he does with such
passion—such love for the Synagogue and you the members.
Esther then went on to talk about Cantor Dov Keren. She talked glowingly
and from her heart. She indicated that Dov sings with such passion; it is like
going to the opera. He sings from his heart. This member asked me
whether I knew that. I laughed and indicated that I had the benefit of seeing
the Cantor’s face as he conducted services. His back is facing the ark so not
that many people can see Dov’s expression as he performs, , his desire, his
love.
The Rabbi and Cantor have been instrumental in developing a successful
Friday evening Simcha service held on the first Friday of each month They
have also developed a new Ruach service-a service of different songs and
melodies for Shabbat mornings. Last Spring we had an experimental service
which was a success. We are looking to continue that service four times
next year starting on October 27th.
As to the Professional Staff
Since Lesley Hoffman has been the Principal of the Jackson Religious
School, she has achieved a record enrollment of 61 students. We are clearly
49
on the right track. Two years ago we had 42 students. Through Leslie’s
efforts our school has been selected by the METRopolitan NY region of the
United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism to be part of the region’s new
PaRDes program. PaRDes stands for Professional Reflection, Development
and Study. The Religious School teachers will take part in four individual
workshops over the course of the 2007/8 school year. This will enhance our
teacher’s growth, which will surely benefit our students. We have started a
Sunday school for age 5 students. Our synagogue is now open on Sunday
mornings which could lead to a spring board to other activities. Our Hebrew
High has 7 students, some of whom you will hear read Torah tomorrow
morning.
Amy Morgano, the Director of our Kaplan Nursery School since its
inception, has developed the School into a well-respected institution. We
are now at capacity with 76 students. As we had hoped the school has
served as a source of new students for our religious school. Amy would love
to have members stop by and visit. She wants us all to see the warmth, love
and happiness that is being displayed amongst these young children.
Minna Schneider, joined us as Executive Director in May, 2007. Minna was
previously Executive Director at the Mount Vernon Hotel Museum on East
61st Street and comes to us with much experience and leadership skills.,
Minna is a welcome addition and has made my job much easier. Those of
you that sit on committees have already met Minna and have heard her
ideas. Minna and I have become a team and I wish to thank Minna tonight
for all her efforts.
Harriet Janover, Director of Programming and Membership Services, is the
person behind the scene who works late into the nights ensuring that all is
done. By having a strong Executive Director in place, Harriet will be able to
focus on Programming and Membership Services and will do what she does
best—providing extraordinary programs and services to our members. We
already have seen evidence of that this year in the fine Selichos Service with
Katie Marton as the speaker and the wonderful Patron’s reception on
Wednesday. We are blessed to have Harriet. She really cares about this
Congregation and is passionate about its members.
I would like to thank the remaining administrative people, Florence
Weidberg, Tracy Devore_ and Bob Goldsmith, our maintenance staff led
50
by George Figeroand Issac Flores_and all others who make this a great
congregation.
We have a truly wonderful synagogue. If you look at the home page on the
website, you will see the following description of us.
Our congregants tend to use many of the same words to
describe their Sutton Place Synagogue experience. Words
such as “warm” and “welcoming.” “Intelligent” and
“inspirational.” ‘Friendly” and “familiar.” Yet, the word they
use most frequently reflects all of these traits: Community
Above all, the members of Sutton Place Synagogue pride
ourselves on the thriving religious, cultural, educational and
social community we’ve built in the heart of midtown
Manhattan.
However all this activity is not without its costs.
Only 22% of our expenses are covered by dues. Fees charged for our
Nursery and Religious School, the sale of High Holiday tickets and the
Memorial book cover another 53%The balance of 25% is from our Kol
Nidre appeal. Last year 350 families contributed—. Of that group 150 were
patrons. If you haven’t given in the past, please give something. If you
have given, please increase your pledge.
I have spoken of our great plans
 Our Simcha service
 Our new Ruach service
 Our new Social programs
 Our expanded Adult Education Schedule
 Our reinstated Women’s League
 Our nursery school that is at capacity
 Our growing religious school with the new Sunday school
 Our top notch Rabbi and Cantor

51
We are definitely going places. Please allow me, allow us to continue on
this path, by contributing to our appeal.
I want to close with a story that I think demonstrates what Sutton Place
Synagogue means to our community. A young man had just suffered a
terrible loss in the family and he walked miles to his Rabbi to speak with
him about the tragedy. The young man entered the office of the Rabbi and
stood in front of the aged man who sat before him. He wept and poured out
his troubles to the Rabbi. And then, in a state of trembling, he asked
“Rabbi, why does G-d allow such tragedies to befall good people?
The Rabbi was silent for a long time, a very long time, an awkwardly long
tine.
Finally the Rabbi stood up and placed himself at the side of his young
visitor.
The young man could not contain his curiosity and finally asked, “Rabbi, are
you going to answer my question?” The Rabbi replied, with the most honest
response to tragedy:
“My son, I do not have the answer to the question that you asked. The only
answer I can offer is that I am standing beside you in your time of need.
Sutton Place Synagogue is standing beside you—beside each and every
one of you—in your time of need-and in your time of joy. This is what
community means. This is why I agreed to become President. The
Synagogue stood beside my wife and family in time of need-and in time
of joy.
There are cards located in your seat pockets—please indicate your pledge if
you have not done so and our ushers will pick up the cards at the end of the
speech.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, our clergy, our fine staff, my wife,
Linda, our daughters, Heather and Shari and son in law Ron, I would like to
wish you G’mar Chatimah Tovah, that you may be sealed for a year of
52
health, happiness and prosperity and that 5768 be a year of peace for the
United States, for Israel and the entire world.
Wendy Brody
Ohavi Zedek Synagogue
Burlington VT
www.ohavizedek.com
Yom Kippur Speech
GOOD YON TOV
Tonight the congregations of Beth-El Ner Tarmid in Broomhall, PA. Congregation Beth
Israel in Andover, MA and Ohavi Zedek Synagogue in Burlington, VT all have
something in common. The annual President’s addresses are being given by the children
of Harold and the late Bernice Brody. As my brothers and I come before our respective
synagogues to address the congregations we do so with great pride and love for Judaism
and our community. We obviously have a little sibling rivalry going as to who wrote the
best speech and since I have seen both my brothers’ speeches I can honestly say, I did.
You know, not too long ago I was working late at the synagogue trying to understand the
various accounts and organizational structures at OZ. I had notes on memberships, the
annual appeal, the budget, the endowments, the capital campaign, Hebrew school, Young
Judea and many other folders, all opened on the desk. While studying these files I came
upon a little lamp and as I was thinking, I started rubbing the lamp and a Genie appeared
and said as president of OZ I will grant you one wish. It can be anything. Well I thought
for a moment and then took out a map of the Middle East. I said Genie do you see this
land of Israel; my wish would be that Israel would have lasting peace. No more war, no
more conflicts between Israel and the world.
The Genie took a step back and said "The Middle East has been at war for 100's and 100's
of years. Many Great Genies before me have tried to grant peace in the Middle East and
could not. To be honest, I am not that great of a Genie. I do not think I can grant that
53
wish. You will need to think of something else. Well, I thought for a moment and looked
down at all the files. Memberships not paid up, annual appeals not met, many accounts
not being reconciled. Bills from Hebrew School, the House Committee, Youth Groups
and the Capital Campaign. More money going out than coming in. Ok, I said, Genie my
wish then is to have all my accounts in order so we can have a balanced budget and
everyone contributing to the capital campaign as we continue on our journey to
strengthen our physical structure and our congregational family. The genie looked down
at all the files and pondered for a moment then said "On second thought let me see that
Middle East Map again".
Well I do have this wish and I do not think we need a Genie to make it happen.
During Rosh Hashanah I acknowledged the Phase One of the capital campaign. But the
capital campaign is only part of the story. We are richer because of who we are as a
community and because of the individuals whom make up our community. Ohavi Zedek
has much to be proud of. Our future looks bright. Our congregation is blessed with great
people and it starts with our Rabbis. Their hard work and the spiritual, religious and
educational guidance we receive each and every day is the foundation on which we
stand. Rabbi Joshua Chasan and Rabbi David Steinberg please stand and remain standing
and I would also like to recognize Rabbi Max Wall and Cantor Jerry Held
It does not stop with the clergy. The contributions this past year from Sarah Klionsky,
Michelle Leftkowitz, Barbara Hammond, Carol Altobelli, Raul Guevra and Jane Zucker
were so numerous and their impact greatly enhanced our congregational family. Also we
look forward to the contributions of our new Hebrew School Administrative Assistant,
Lynn Modica. Many people volunteered to help in the office during our transition.
Would our office and professional staff and office volunteers please stand and remain
standing.
The board spends hours each month dealing with a variety of issues that face OZ. One of
our most important decisions was to hire an executive director to help us move forward
with organizational and fundraising skills necessary to bring us to the next level. It is
54
with great pleasure that I again welcome our new Executive Director Mike Kanarick and
his wife Liz Kleinberg to our family and the Burlington Community. Please Stand.
And speaking of the board, I am very privileged to work with dedicated, kind and caring
individuals who have the best interests of OZ first and foremost in their hearts. Would the
present board members Yoram Samets, Lee Lichtenstein, Gigi Weisman, Jonathan
Cohen, Leon Urbaitel, Bill Gottesman, Rick Hecht, Iris Banks, Mary Beth Bowman,
Diane Rippa, Rick Wolfish, David Pearl, and our youth member Sam Alpert and our
treasurer Bea Samuelson, please stand and remain standing. We also have two great
board of Trustees Judy Hershberg and Harvey Klein would please stand. Also, would our
past presidents, and all those who have ever served on the OZ board and our legal advisor
Michael Wool please stand and remain standing.
Last Spring, I asked some committee chairs to consider nominating their programs for
the United Synagogue’s Solomon Schechter Awards. These awards which started in
1949 are annually awarded to Conservative synagogues throughout the world. Sarah as
the Community Education Director nominated Bubbies and Babies, Rosh Hashanah by
the Lake, Torah Time and Dvar Torah. in the category of Family Education. Sarah, Ruth
Baskin and Ruth Horowitz all were leaders in these programs. This summer we learned
that Ohavi Zedek Synagogue was selected to receive the Gold Solomon Schechter Award
in the area of family education. Although I am not sure we have ever sent in a
nomination form in the past, I do know this is the first time in the 58 years of the awards
that United Synagogue remembers presenting a Gold Award to Ohavi Zedek Synagogue.
Congratulations Sarah and the membership and outreach committee lead by Dana Engel
and Jonathan Cohen. It is my hope that we can raise money to send Sarah and others to
the United Synagogue’s annual Conference in Orlando FL. If you were or are on the
membership and outreach committee, if you worked on the Family Education programs
or if you attended any of the programs sponsored by the membership and outreach
committee please stand and remain standing.
55
Two of the most important committees are the Hebrew School Committee and the Adult
Education Committee. Providing the best Hebrew education possible that does not stop
at Bar/Bat Mitzvah age, but continues throughout high school and into adulthood is very
important to the future of Judaism. Continued learning is a cornerstone to Judaism as a
whole. Would past Hebrew School Committee chair Michelle Rath, present chair Susan
Greenberg and others on this committee please stand, if you are a parent or grandparent
of a child in Hebrew school please stand, if you are a child in Hebrew school please stand
and if you ever attended Hebrew School at OZ please stand. Our Feen Scholar Weekend
chaired by Caryn Feinberg was a great success. If you are part of the Adult Education
committee, participated in the Feen Scholar Weekend or in any other adult Education
activities please stand and remain standing
There would be no Hebrew school if it were not for our fine Hebrew school teachers and
Madrichim. Rabbi Joshua Chasan, Rabbi David Steinberg, Kira Bell, Shoshannah Boray,
Ellen Gittelsohn, Amy May, Sharon Panitch, Michael Rosenthal, Tammy Schechner,
Ronen Schechner, Gabriel Shapiro, Elliot Sion, Michelle Slotnick, Susan Weiss, Neil
Willner and “Madrichim” Ari Chasan, Chloe Johnson, Wade Kirschbaum, Weston
Kirschbaum, and Lane Kisonack. If you have taught Hebrew school or are presently
teaching Hebrew School including the Madrichim please stand and remain standing.
Our Young Judea Youth group leaders were very active and many new programs are
happening this year. They will be providing our young people with social, educational
and religious experiences. Miriam Sturgis, Fran Pomerantz and Ally Gassman, please
stand. If have been a youth leader in the past please stand. If you are an officer in the
youth group or regional officer please stand, if you are in Young Judea or a parent of
someone in Young Judea please stand and remain standing.
For the first time this year we have a Youth Director, Miram Sturgis. Amy May who has
been working along side Miriam will provide us with Young Judea programs as well as
programs for youth in our community at large. A Study by Professor Steven Cohen of
Hebrew University found that Young Judaea alumni are dramatically more committed to
56
Jewish observance, like lighting Shabbat candles and being synagogue members than
other American Jews. We as a synagogue need to support our youth. Our membership
dues can go just so far. When the members call for help during their fundraising events
please consider donating.
When you went into our lobby you may have noticed the new archives displays. Trust
me it did not happen by magic. Well maybe a little magic but that magic comes from
committee chair Aaron Goldberg and his committee. Please take time this next week and
notice all that is in the lobby from our past and our new painting of the Fiddler. If you are
on the archives committee please stand and remain standing.
Shimmy Cohen, Harriet Rosenthal, Mindy Evnin, Mike Goldberg and George Solomon
year in and year out provide us their time and energy as leaders of the cemetery and
Chevra Kadisha committees. If you are involved in either one of these committees please
stand and remain standing.
We rely on Rick Wolfish, chair, and the Finance committee to construct our annual
budget and to keep the accounts in order. The finance committee along with Karen Paul
who oversees our endowment investments and David Pasackow who works with our
capital campaign investments is vital to our success. Would Rick, Karen and members of
the finance committee, please stand and remain standing.
Our House committee is led by Gary Visco. They work hard to make sure our facility is
in order and work closely with Raul. Would Gary and members of his committee please
stand and remain standing.
As you have all seen during these High Holidays, our building has undergone some
incredible improvements. Our capital campaign committee has been hard at work to
ensure that we have the necessary funds. If you are a member of the capital campaign
Leadership Committee lead by Paul Growald and Harriet Rosenthal and Elizabeth Brody
57
or the Building Task Force Committee lead by Jeff Alpert and are not already standing
please stand.
Our Interfaith and Social Action committee provided us with a series of programs
entitled “Empowering Our Elders”. This committee works with the Vermont Interfaith
Action group and provides us with opportunities to increase our awareness on issues
important to OZ and other faith communities. Would past chair, Michael Schaal, present
chair Jeff Potash and his committee members please stand and remain standing.
Lynda Siegel and now Ellen Gittelsohn have brought our library to a new level.
The changes in the library have enhanced our ability to provide members with a real
library setting. Would Ellen, Lynda and members of this committee are present please
stand and remain standing.
Big changes happened in technology this year. We now have a server, new computers
and wireless service thanks to the hard work of the technology committee led by Leon
Urbaitel. You can bring your lap top and log in to your own email or Google the best
brisket recipe. Soon you will be able to have a cup of coffee and work on your computer
while you wait for your child in Hebrew school. Would members of the technology
committee please stand and remain standing.
This year our Religious committee members will be giving weekly D’Var Torah sermons
during Shabbat services. Led by Lee Lichtenstein this committee works on many issues
related to religious matters. Would Lee and his committee members please stand and
remain standing.
We also had other events like the Hanukkah party. I would like to thank Deb
Lashman and her committee that provided us with a great event. Would Deb and her
committee please stand and remain standing.
Many thanks to Dinah and Rebecca Goldberg who refurnished the art hanging and gave
the lion a new hair due. Would you both stand and remain standing
58
Joyce Goldberg, Shirley Alpert and Jane Pearl keep up our gift shop. Other members
such as Ducky Donath, Cheryl Goldstein, Judy Hershberg, Kathy Chasen, Shirley
Rutstein, Annette Lazarus, Rose Pels, Vivian Mason, Natalie Thanassi, and Bernice
Edlestein work hard on the voice, in the kitchen or volunteering whenever we need them.
If you have volunteered with the voice, gift shop and kitchen or helped out with any
events and are not already standing please stand and remain standing
Please stand and remain standing if your family celebrated a life cycle event. Baby
naming, birth, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, wedding or if you attended a life cycle event,
attended any Bar or Bat mitzvahs, weddings, or baby naming ceremonies at OZ.
Please stand and remain standing if you attended any programs here at OZ, if you are a
guest of OZ, if you attended any services, including this one tonight.
Looking out at all of you reminds me of a story.
“One day an old man was looking down on the beach and noticed a very young boy
picking up a starfish and putting it back into the sea. There were hundreds of starfishes
lying on the beach as far as the eye could see from the previous storm. The boy would
slowly pick one up and walk down to the beach and place it back into the water. The old
man watched this process for awhile and then approached the boy and said. “Little boy
there are hundreds of starfishes lying on the beach for miles and you are just one little
boy. Why do you continue to do this when you cannot possibly make a difference? The
little boy walked back, bent down to get another starfish and placed it in the sea. He
looked up to the man and said, “I made a difference to that one.”
As you stand here look around. YOU have all made a difference to the success of Ohavi
Zedek Synagogue, by your efforts, your donations, and your participation. We have much
to be truly thankful for and much to be celebrating.
Please be seated.
59
We’ve done so much without a Genie, and yet the journey continues.
Our journey moves into Phase II of the capital campaign. What are the priorities in Phase
Two? Phase Two completion will give us:

A Fully Modernized Kosher Kitchen

An Expanded, Remodeled Main Entry on North Prospect Street

A Safe, Beautiful Event Area in Back of the Synagogue

Development of the Second Floor Teen Room/Classroom so our teens can
have a place to meet.

Energy Efficient Windows Throughout the Building

New Folding-Stackable Chairs for Major Synagogue Events

New Chandelier in the Main Lobby to replace the one that is not functioning
properly.
Making these important improvements to our building will help us serve our members
and the larger Jewish community as a hub for Jewish learning and events. Shortly the
capital campaign committee will be providing us with the opportunity to purchase chairs
for OZ. For $250.00 you can have a recognition chair with a plate on the back honoring
or in memory of a loved one. These chairs will be used at major events and next year’s
High Holiday services.
Tonight I would like to announce that the Sisterhood Fund will be donating $20,000 to
the capital campaign to help with the money needed to modernize the kitchen.
If a large contribution doesn’t work with your family budget, I ask you to consider
keeping a family Tzedakah can for OZ. Every week put in your nickels, dimes, and
quarters. Hebrew school children can give some of their weekly allowance even just a
nickel. . If you gather $2.50 a week, less than a gallon of gas, a few cups of coffee, that’s
$130 in a year for the Capital Campaign. I know each of us sitting here tonight can
contribute. Please when the capital campaign calls you make a pledge that fits your life.
If you can pledge in the thousands I deeply thank you; if you pledge $2.50 a week I just
60
as deeply thank you. We are all in this together. It would give me great pleasure to
announce next Kol Nidre that we had 100% involvement with the Phase II capital
campaign.
But there are still more ways we can take care of our needs without a Genie. Since
membership dues support less than half our budget, we rely on other avenues like the
annual appeal, donations and fundraising events to balance our budget.
On October 27th our major funding raising event of the year will be held: a concert
featuring the Starline Rhythm Boys Band. This is a night for fun and connecting with our
community. Last year, with Aaron Goldberg’s leadership, this concert raised $25,000.
We raised those funds because we had major sponsorships from many of you sitting here
tonight. We need to raise that amount again this year. It will offset expenses in a variety
of places, including Young Judea programs, scholarships, regional events, and United
Synagogue dues. Funds we raise will also be used in the Hebrew School budget which
cannot rely on tuition alone and to pay for a sofer to evaluate and fix Torahs that are in
need of repair.
We would be grateful if a few people here tonight could step up and be lead sponsors or
sponsors for this event. The lead sponsor amount is $10,000. This could be done by
one; two or 10 people giving $2,000 a piece. We need you and we need you now. When
our board calls you next week please consider being a lead sponsor, a benefactor for
$1,800 a community sponsor for $500.00 or a business sponsor for $250.00.
Some of you again may think there’s no way can I afford that. I understand, I can’t
either. But I can afford to help call people who may be able to help in this area and I can
afford to buy a few tickets at $18.00 a piece. That is a movie for two. Please, instead of
going to the movies that week come to the concert. Enjoy yourself and connect with our
community.
Here’s one final story I’d like to share with you.
One day Samuel was teaching his young son Jeremiah about the Exodus and cited “The
Children of Israel went up armed out of the land of Egypt”, and the “Children of Israel
61
lifted their eyes and noticed the Egyptians pursuing after them, and The Children of Israel
went into the midst of the Red Sea to escape the Egyptians and the Children of Israel did
many acts as Moses commended. And the Children Israel kept the covenant of G-d.”
And when Samuel finished his story he asked Jeremiah did he have any questions.
Jeremiah looked up at his father and responded “Abba, when the Children of Israel were
doing all of these things what were the adults in the community doing?”
I hope when your children or grandchildren ask what you did to help OZ you can say “I
served on this committee; I helped with this event and contributed in this way.” We need
active, dedicated individuals to get involved. One major way to get involved is to serve
on the board. We will have five open seats for this coming year. If you are interested in
serving on the board please notify our nominating committee chairs Mary Beth Bowen or
Iris Banks. Their phone number and emails are in the voice. We need members to serve
on all our committees but especially membership/outreach. If you are interested in
serving on committees please contact our Executive Director Mike Kanarick by email
(director@ohavizedek.com) or by phone 864-0218 extension 26.
Working together, we absolutely can fulfill my wish to the Genie in the Lamp for 100%
participation in the capital campaign and the continued and strengthened vibrancy of our
wonderful synagogue.
On behalf of myself and my life partner Martha we wish each of you a healthy, sweet and
Happy New Year and may we all journey with passion, respect, and care for each other.
Yom Tov
----------------------------------------------------------------------Morley Goldberg
President
Beth Tikvah Synagogue (1200)
Toronto, ON
mailto:morley.bethtikvah@rogers.com
One night the President was working late at the Synagogue trying to figure out all the
money problems the shul was having. Soon after she (he) took office a Genie appeared
and said. Madame (Mister) President as a reward for being elected president I will grant
you one wish. It can be anything. Well the President thought for a moment and took out
62
a map of the Middle East. She said, Genie do you see this land of Israel, my wish would
be that Israel would have lasting peace. No more war, no more conflicts between Israel
and the world.
The Genie took a step back and said "I don't know, the Middle East has been at war for
100's and 100's of years. Many Great Genies before me have tried to grant peace in the
Middle East and could not. To be honest, I am not that great of a Genie. You will need to
think of something else. Well the President thought for a moment and looked down at all
the files she was working on. Memberships not paid up, annual appeals not met, many
accounts not being reconciled. Bills from Hebrew School, the House Committee, Youth
Groups, More money going out than coming in. Ok Genie my wish then is to have all my
accounts in order so we can have a balanced budget.
The genie looked down at all the files, saw all the problems and pondered for a moment
then said "On second thought let me see that MIddle East Map again""
A visitor to Israel attended a recital and concert at the Moscovitz Auditorium. He was
quite impressed with the architecture and the acoustincs. He inquired of the tour guide, Is
this magnificent auditorium named after Chaim Moscovitz, the famous Talmudic
scholar? No, replied the guide. It's named after Sam Moscovitz, the writer. The visitor
says, Never heard of him. What did he write? The guide replied, A check.
A preacher stands up before his congregation on Sunday morning and says:
"My sisters and brothers, I have bad news, good news, and bad news."
The congregation sighs and says "Preacher, give us the bad news."
Preacher says: " The bad news is that the church needs a new roof"
The congregation sighs more deeply and says, "Give us the good news."
Preacher: "The good news, sisters and brothers, is that we have the
money for the roof."
Much cheering and clapping. Then the congregation roars, "Give us the
bad news."
"The bad news is that the money for the repairs is still in your
pockets"
63
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Naomi Richman
President, Congregation B¹nai Israel (105)
Sulam 28
Petaluma, CA
!
B¹ruchim haba¹im, Welcome,
My grandfather, (olov¹ hasholom) some of you may know, was a rabbi. He had
an interesting way of doing the high holiday appeal (rabbis did everything
in those days). He¹d say something like, ³Mr. Feinstein, you, in the front
row. In your nice suit. How come you didn¹t give any money to the shul last
year?²
Not surprisingly, my mother went to 14 different schools before she
graduated from high school. This technique, apparently, did not endear him
to the congregants. This is my last year as president, so I suppose I could
mention names...but I would mention the generous ones. And that would be
almost everyone here. Everyone seems to contribute to our center in some way
or another.
Last year, some of you may remember, I asked you to stand up based on what
groups in the center you were involved with. This year, I would like to see
something about our history and our connection to the Center in a different
way.
Would you please stand up, and stay standing, if you can, if you first
stepped foot in this building over 70 years ago, before 1935? How about
1940? 1945? 1950? 1955, 1960, 1965, 1970, 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995,
2000, 2005? 2006? This year? If this is the first time you are here, please
stand up as well. (There will be opportunities for you in the future!).
Thank you. You may sit down.
This is our heritage, our past, present and future. Something that
distinguishes us from many other Jewish communities, I believe is our
awareness of our past. Some of our founding families still have descendents
here. The people whose parents raised the money and built this building will
be giving money to restore it.
We as Jews value continuity, maybe more than some other peoples, because we
cannot take it for granted. We have frequently been strangers in a strange
land. We remember the exodus from Egypt, the wandering in the desert, the
waves of exile and immigration. We have learned to create homes wherever we
are, held together by our histories.
64
On Rosh HaShanah, Irv Piotrkowski spoke of this Center as our home. He spoke
about the need to restore the building, to replace antiquated infrastructure
and shore up whatever foundation we have, making it sturdy and safe and
accessible and earthquake resistant.
Now I know that some of you have remodeled your own homes. Beside dealing
with how long all the building takes, the delays, the extra, unanticipated
costs, you still had to pay your regular bills, the mortgage, PG&E, water
all the usual things that we have to pay for to maintain daily life. The
Center is no exception to this.
An important part of our budget is covered by donations, particularly coming
from the two appeals our High Holiday appeal now, and our annual campaign
in the spring. I know many of you have already committed, or are planning to
commit, generous amounts for the restoration of the building. Kol ha¹kovod,
we honor you for it. We still, however, have to keep the lights on, the
heat, such as it is, flowing, and pay for our rabbi. Don¹t forget us now.
Please consider at least matching your usual contribution (if you can¹t
raise it 5% to cover rising costs).
I was listening to the KQED radio appeal this week, and I learned something.
They say, pledge just a dollar a day. Pay by credit card. They say, we need
your support. They give premiums, prizes, for donors. So, I say, pledge just
a dollar a day. Pay by credit card. I say, we need your support. Anyone
contributing over $500 will receive a 4 course Shabbat dinner, at their
house or mine. Over $750 and I¹ll invite Fredi. Over $1000 and I¹ll invite
Fredi and Rabbi Feldman. Over $1500, you get to invite whom you want and
I¹ll throw in a bottle of Hagafen wine.
Of course, I could threaten to extend services until we reach our goal, the
way the radio station does, but I¹m not sure even I can hold out that long.
When you came in, you should have received an envelope with a pledge card.
Take a moment now to bend back a tab please, the next tab, a little higher
you won¹t even notice it among your other bills. Pass the envelopes down
the aisle to where Phyllis and others are collecting them.
Thank you. May you have a wonderful year. G¹mar chatima tovah.
65
Mark S. Kaufman
President, Shaare Tefila Congregation (300)
Silver Spring/Olney, Maryland
www.shaaretefila.org
First of two speeches
Kol Nidre 2006
KN06
Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.
It seemed so straight forward. We had received some unsolicited
offers for our building in the four million dollar range. Our hope was
that the buyer would either share the building with us or lease it back
to us until the new shul was ready. But then, the wind began to
switch, the shul to pitch and suddenly the hinges started to unhitch.
Things began to move very quickly. A viable buyer come forward that
was willing to pay more than others but wanted possession of the
building immediately. It was like we were in a cyclone, not sure where
we would land. Some people said “go this way” while others said
“this way is nice”. One thing was clear. We were now on the Yellow
Brick Road to Olney.
Last week Wendy spoke about some of our adventures on the Yellow
Brick Road so I won’t go into that. But what was it that Dorothy’s
friends received when they completed their journey, to Oz, and finally
saw the wizard? They did not receive a brain, a heart or courage.
What they received were physical mementos to remind them of
blessings they already had.
66
Rabbi Eliana Yolkut of Portland discussed the Mitzvah of hearing 100
shofar blasts on Rosh Hashanna and challenged the congregation to
translate that into saying 100 blessings in a day. A member of the
congregation, Lois Sussman-Shenker, accepted the challenge. In
doing so, the first thing she had to do was to figure out “What is a
blessing?” We all know about blessings associated with various food
items. Those who participate in the morning service know that in that
service one says many blessings. However, the count does not get
you to 100.
Rabbi Allan Berkowitz while conducting a children’s service asked
who recently had a birthday. A young girl raised her hand and said
that her birthday was the previous week. She said that her favorite
present was a paint set. Rabbi Berkowitz asked her “Besides saying
thank you, what did you say when you opened it?” She replied that
she had said “I like it.” The rabbi then said “If you add the words
Baruch atta Hashem at the beginning and God at the end you have a
blessing. “Baruch atta Hashem I like it God”. Now any time you want
to say a blessing just begin Baruch atta Hashem and add your own
ending.
Using this as a guideline when Ms. Sussman-Shenker went to say
her 100 blessings she began to see things in a new light. She said a
blessing for the leaves that changed color and then realized that if not
for the blessing of sight she would not be able to see the leaves. She
started thinking of her family and her friends. They were blessings in
67
her life. By the end of the day, she exceeded 100 blessings and
realized how truly blessed she was.
Shaare Tefila is blessed and the biggest blessing that the
Congregation has is you, its membership. I can say that because
after four and a half years as the Congregation’s President I have an
idea of what it takes in people power and dollars to run this
organization. Let me give you an idea.
Will Wendy Abraham and Max Kantzer please stand as well as
everyone else involved in the Relocation and Design Committees;
Lanny Plotkin and those who worked on the groundbreaking; Hy
Grosberg and those who helped with the move or who are storing
some of the Congregation’s belongings in their homes.
Baruch atta Hashem who has provided Shaare Tefila with so many
volunteers working towards its long term success.
Will David Ronis stand along with the Capital Campaign Cabinet, the
solicitors, other people supporting the campaign and those who have
made a pledge to the campaign.
Baruch atta Hashem who has provided us with people working to
make sure that we have the finances to build a new facility dedicated
to the study of Your Torah and the performance of Mitzvot.
68
Now please stand, our School Committee, our Youth Committee, our
Religious Committee, Legal Committee, Finance Committee, Chesed
Committee, Membership Committee, Ways and Means Committee,
The Tower, the Israel Affairs Committee, the Security Committee, the
Publicity Committee, the listserve, the Web Site, our high holiday
ushers, the choir, people who volunteer in the office and the Scrip
Distribution folks.
Baruch atta Hashem who has provided this Congregation with people
of such diverse talents and interests and who are willing to use those
talents to help the Congregation thrive.
I’m not very good at making lists; so how about those who are on a
committee that I did not mention or who perform volunteer work
outside of our committee structure. Also, those who are members of
an auxiliary please stand, Hazak, Men’s Club, Sisterhood and USY.
Baruch atta Hashem who has provided Shaare Tefila with members
who are willing to do whatever it takes to run the synagogue.
Our professional staff has been fantastic. Rabbi Layman, along with
our Executive Director, Jill Goldwater dodged whatever was thrown in
our path to make sure that things have gone as smoothly as possible.
Cantor Portman was the link that on our first Shabbat on the road
made the service feel like it was home. Our new Education and
Youth Director, Rabbi Schmelzer-Covel, jumped in and immediately
69
started upgrading our school and youth programs. And, of course,
Lisa Arber is always thinking about the next great event.
Baruch atta Hashem who has provided this Congregation with a
professional staff that so closely mimics our values and are
committed to leading us in our search for spirituality and Torah.
There are two things that concern me on this holiest of nights and
both have to do with maintaining our community for the coming year.
In some ways the lack of a building has led to good things. It has
forced our staff to be innovative and come up with programs that we
have not tried before. Just this morning we had a Tashlich breakfast
out at Lake Needwood.
Yes, there is no place like home but even
without a building I’ll match our spirit and programming against any
congregation. Even without a building I’ll repeat the claim that
Shaare Tefila is the best synagogue membership value in the
Washington area. So don’t while away the hours conferring with the
flowers, consulting with the rain. Get up and go to a Shaare Tefila
event. Check your mailbox or the Web site, www.shaaretefila.org, or
call the office.
However, a key question is “What else can Shaare Tefila do for you?”
If the programming is not what you’d like to see, let the staff or the
leadership team know. Our staff is a lot better at responding to
requests than they are at reading minds. The last thing that anyone
wants to do is spend time on something that does not meet your
needs. This is your congregation. You are its blessing and the
70
congregation needs to return the favor and be your blessing. The old
adage “If you don’t see what you want, ask for it” truly applies.
Currently we are managing two budgets; one is for Olney – but it is
the budget for our general operating expenses that concerns me
tonight. The Congregation is indebted to the Bressler family who are
letting us use their home for office space, meeting space and daily
minyans.
The Bresslers like so many of the volunteers that just stood are not
only doing so much for the Congregation – they have also made a
pledge to the Capital Campaign. So many people have done so
much over the last year that I am embarrassed to be the one who
stands here making the Kol Nidre Appeal. But, by now you know how
the operating budget works. On the income side of the ledger there is
a line item that shows the Kol Nidre Appeal raising $60,000 and I am
the one whose job description includes standing here and asking for
it. When we reach the end of the Yellow Brick Road and arrive at that
place over the rainbow we are not totally sure what we will find.
However, I can pretty much guarantee that we will not find either a
wizard to give us gifts or a leprechaun with a pot of gold.
Last year of the $60,000 in the budget for the Kol Nidre Campaign
$46,000 was raised, down about 15 percent from the year before and
the lowest level in six years. This year, the amount of money pledged
with ticket applications is less than $30,000. Tonight we need to
raise, at least, the other $16,000 to match last year. People ask me
71
for a recommended amount of what they should give. I’m going to
say the same thing as I said last year. While it would be great if
everyone could give $180, it would be greater if everyone could just
give something, that we had no one with a zero amount next to their
name. I’m not going to hard sell this. Please don’t tell me, as the
wizard told Dorothy, to go away and come back tomorrow or to go get
the witch’s broomstick. You have proved that as Shaare Tefila
members you know what has to be done and you do it.
Hopefully, we are all able to sit back and think how on the grand
scale of things how truly blessed we are. This includes our
relationship with the synagogue. Yes some of us have had to drive a
little further, OK a lot further to be at Shaare Tefila this year. Yes,
sometimes we show up at the wrong place for a meeting or an event
and yes, keeping us together is tougher than it was last year. But, we
have the blessing of each other, of all being together for Yom Tov
and of looking forward to an exciting spiritual year ahead. And, yes
the sale of our building was a blessing because it will give us the
financial resources to offset potential increases in construction costs.
Hopefully, as you contemplate things this evening you consider your
Shaare Tefila membership as one of the blessings in your life; that
you are able to say Baruch atta Hashem I like it God.
While individually we may feel small and meek we know that when
we come together we become the great and powerful. On this Yom
Kippur we pray that the coming year will be one in which our building
72
plans are quickly approved by the county bureaucracy and that we
begin to see our new building go up on Georgia Avenue. We pray for
G-d’s help and guidance in providing the atmosphere and energy to
keep Shaare Tefila vibrant while we are without a permanent facility.
While we ask for G-d’s help, each of us knows that it also takes our
own individual commitment, our own brain, our own heart and our
own courage. May each of us find that commitment within us and
may we all merit a G’mar Chatima Tova.
Thank you.
Speech # 2
Shalom alechem, alechem shalom – wandering people welcome
home.
We all know that this is not the venue in which I would have preferred
to open with these words. However, as I have come to appreciate
over the last 14 months this congregation has proven to be adaptable
and innovative in turning whatever space we happen to occupy into
home.
This year has been particularly frustrating for me as I know it has
been for you. It seemed that every time it looked like we were getting
close to being able to build something popped up and said “gotcha”.
We had negotiated a contract with our builder, we had authorized
73
early procurement of long lead items, and we had our financing in
place. What we couldn’t get was a permit that would have allowed us
to actually get started. I asked the same questions that many of you
were asking: Are we being treated fairly? What else could we be
doing to get this moving? Whenever my frustration got the better of
me I was told that these things take time and if we “kvetched” too
much that we would wind up on the bottom of the pile. I have to tell
you that there were days that I could not imagine that there was
anyone further down the pile than we were. I felt that I was doing my
best but deep down I knew that was not good enough, that there
must be something else that I could be doing. This being Yom
Kippur, on a personal basis I can not stand here without asking each
of you for forgiveness for the things that I have been unable to
accomplish, as the Congregation’s President, this past year.
Many of you know that I have mixed feelings about the appropriate
message for tonight. I also have mixed emotions realizing that this is
the sixth, and my guess the final, time that I have the privlege of
speaking on Kol Nidre. You would think that by now it would be easy.
On one hand, it is a great honor to stand here on this holy and
solemn night. In the silence that follows Kol Nidre, I have your ear.
On the other hand, it has been our tradition, as well as the tradition in
many synagogues that on Kol Nidre an annual appeal is conducted.
To me, this has always seemed mismatched to the moment, even
more so, this year, because it is also Shabbat. You have come here
for Kol Nidre, in which we ask to be released from the oaths and
commitments we have made before G-d and here I am, immediately
74
following that prayer supposed to ask you to make a pledge and a
commitment.
So my challenge tonight is to not dilute the holiness of the moment.
To help do this I have conducted the appeal in advance and a great
many of you have responded and on behalf of the Congregation I
thank you for that response. Tonight, while I will give the people
whose tradition it is to give tzadaka to the shul on Yom Kippur a
chance to do so I would like to talk more about where we are as a
congregation and your place in this holy community.
One Shabbat morning after WSSC unexpectedly added to our burden
I was more frustrated than usual and thought about not driving to
Olney to stand in front of the Congregation and talk about the latest
delay. I did go, gave the update but never really got into the
davening. On the way home I heard a song, on Taubman’s The Best
of the Rest CD that was written about the State of Israel but seemed
to apply to us. The lyrics include the words “All eyes are waiting,
Every heart skips a beat, Can an old dream be coming true? Shalom
Alechem, Alechem Shalom, wandering people welcome home”. I
immediately envisioned those words on a banner hanging on our new
building as people walked in for its dedication. I thought of our youth
choir singing the song and the opening speaker enthusiastically
beginning their remarks with those words and being met by the
thunderous cheer of those present.
75
My mood got more positive and I remembered that as frustrating as
the past year has been, it has been successful in many ways. The
last 14 months have proven what we always thought – that Shaare
Tefila is more than a building, it is the people. Week after week you
have turned out for all kinds of things and week after week visitors
come to me and remark what a fantastic congregation we have.
During the past year our membership has held constant. We have
welcomed 11 new members since the beginning of the summer. The
lack of a building has caused us to think outside of the proverbial box.
Our programs were new, different and consistently well attended.
Our Purim celebration attracted over 300 people. Over 150 people
crowded into Bill Goldstein’s home for an art auction. A wedding
reception for Cantor and Gigi Fried drew a similar number of people
to the home of Michelle and Roy Peck. Some congregations are
thankful when they get a minyan for a mid week yontiff. We had over
100 people at Olney Theatre for the 2nd day of Shavuot.
Congratulations, and thank you, to each of you who found these
events as well as Shaare Tefila services as they made their way
around the county, sometimes changing location at the last minute.
This year could not have been so successful without your dedication,
hard work and participation.
A lot of credit goes to our staff. I don’t know if our recruiting process
is that good or if G-d is watching out for us but we have been
fortunate in attracting staff members who fit so well into our
community and our personality. Rabbi Layman, Cantor Fried, Jill
Goldwater, Rabbi Schmelzer-Covell, Elise Meshel, Lisa Arber and
76
Mary Beth Mason all did a phenomenal job in working around the lack
of a facility to make sure that we remained a full service synagogue
and had the great programming that continues to make Shaare Tefila
the best synagogue membership value around - period. Take a look
through the blue book at everything that will be happening in the
coming year.
However, we are more than the sum of our services and programs.
Shaare Tefila is you. A special group of people who have found a
way to transcend physical location to become what Dr. Martin Luther
King called a “Beloved Community”. Being a beloved community
represents the joining of faith to action. We are beloved when we
care for all because each of us is worth caring for. We are beloved
when we work to better the world around us because those are the
ideals that God stands for, what the Torah teaches us to do.
Our Beloved Community is filled with those who go the extra mile,
give the extra ounce and who personify the grace and kindness we
attribute to God. We ask about each of you personally. Where are
you spiritually? How are you physically? What is going on with your
search for God, your Torah learning and your tikun olam work? What
do you need and what do you have to offer of your blessings of hand,
heart and mind?
Being a great shul is even more than being a beloved community.
The rabbis point this out in examining how the patriarchs referred to
the places where they communicated with God. Abraham calls the
77
spot where he communicates with God a “har” – a mountain. Isaac
refers to where he communicates with God as a “sadeh” – a field and
Jacob gives the title of the place where he communicates with God
as a “bayit” – a home.
I think that the rabbis are teaching an important message about what
a synagogue is supposed to be. To some, a synagogue should be
like a mountain, high above us, challenging us with the need for self
improvement. The synagogue should be the peak, the highest of
standards. To others the synagogue is like a field, a calm nurturing
environment where we can find relief from the pressures and tensions
of daily life. Shaare Tefila is closer to what the sages saw as the true
meaning of the synagogue. A home, a setting, where we are both
challenged and comforted. It is made up of many family members
who have diverse needs, interests and commitments. A synagogue
is not just a place where people go to pray. It is where people go in
times of both simcha and sorrow. It is a place that teaches us how to
live with “tzores” so it does not destroy us and how to live with
success and not be consumed by it. It is meant to inspire and uplift us
both individually and as a community.
We are an incredibly diverse group of individuals. We are in every
age bracket and every possible family situation. Some of us have a
great wealth of Jewish knowledge while to others this all seems
foreign. Many of us don’t speak or understand Hebrew. Some of us
struggle to read it. Some daven at Shaare Tefila three times a day,
others, three times a year. We are also everything in between.
78
Our staff and our volunteers work hard to deliver programs that
appeal to such a broad range of people and experiences. At Shaare
Tefila we want to have a tent big enough for everyone. Ours is a
community that focuses on what we share – our common covenant
and a commitment to improving the future.
Each of you must know
that you are important and that you are a welcomed and valuable
member of the Shaare Tefila family.
But, if you feel you are on the outside looking in, we need to find
more and better ways to inspire you on your Jewish journey. This is
a daunting task and I am thankful that it is not mine alone, that I have
so much help from so many people. There is much to learn and
much to do. Each of us has a different Jewish journey and yet we are
all linked together through this congregation. I say this every year. If
Shaare Tefila is not offering what you need, let me or Rabbi Layman
know so that we can make it happen for you
Also on that Shabbat I spoke about earlier I heard the following ditty
on Moshe Yess’ Shabbos on My Mind CD.
Rabbi Yitchak Levi Fifer has a son. After all these years Hashem
gave him one. And the scholars of Vilna never saw such joy as on
the day that the rabbi made a bris for his boy. Rabbi Yitchak Levi
Fifer was so proud. My son will be a Torah scholar he would shout
out loud. On the first day he sent his boy to school, he was wrapped
up in a Tallis and held just like a jewel. And the rabbi prayed unto
79
Hashem, my son will teach your Torah to all men. Mrs. Fifer from time
to time would say “May God protect our son and lead him safely on
his way”. In the next few years a problem came to light. The son
could not learn Aleph Bait quite right. And the rabbi who dreamed his
boy was first, cried softly when his son would read a verse. The boy
grew up with shame and moved away. He took up selling rags for
humble pay. He felt the tears behind his father’s eyes. And the pain
and embarrassment because he was unwise. The rabbi cried and
wept unto Hashem; my son’s among the lowest of all men. But, Mrs.
Fifer would comfort him and say “May God protect and lead our son
safely on his way”. The son from rags to riches slowly grew, until he
was the richest of all Jews. He traveled everywhere from town to
town and quietly gave charity when no one was around. And when
the rabbi heard the stories of his boy; his heart filled up with
happiness and joy. He told him “You have taught me much my son.
We are given each our special ways to serve the Holy One.”
While I hear the guy over there saying “Ah cha, I told you he would
get around to talking about donations” that is not necessarily what I
want you to take away from this. It is that each of us has been
blessed with different attributes and challenged with different
weaknesses. While our first year on the road was “different”, some
might even say exciting, this year is likely to be more challenging.
Every one of us is critical to overcoming these challenges. Together
we have so many talents. We are such a successful community
because we know and understand that we each have our own special
way of contributing to its success.
80
In this coming year may we remember that that anywhere this
congregation meets is home and that the words “Shalom alechem,
alechem shalom – wandering people welcome home” are
appropriate. We pray that in this year we will see a permanent home
for Shaare Tefila rise in Olney and that my successor will be able to
welcome you there with those words. May we all be worthy of a
G’mar Chatima Tova and may God protect us all, individually and as
a congregation and lead us safely on our way.
Shabbat Shalom and G’mar Tov.
81
--------------------------------------------------------------------------Here were my comments to the congregation for Kol Nidre. I wanted to pass
this along because I felt that it finally crystallized my thoughts about
community and the essence of a congregation. I also sought to avoid a direct
appeal for money - choosing to talk just about the importance of a synagogue
in our lives. I spent this summer reading the book Re-Thinking the Synagogue
- A New Vocabulary for the Synagogue - part of the Synagogue 3000 efforts
(though their website is synagogue200.org). Anyway they underscore that our
problem is that the "shul" is too often just a fee for service institution the book argues that the essence is that we are a community, a sacred
community and it is the personal interrelationships that matter - to
personalize your congregation is the goal, if we can do so, then people are
connected (and the concern for contributions will equally be answered).
Programming should be an outgrowth of the community - an outgrowth of the
jewish journey groups created within that community - instead of the
programming merely be the purpose of the synagogue - in other words (if I am
expressing myself correctly) - we are not the Y - we are a synagogue - and
even without some of our programs, people still need to be connected and
need a synagogue - Somehow we need to capture that connection with our
membership - somehow we need to get beyond, what did the synagogue do for me
lately - a synagogue exists and people need to connect because they are
Jews, they have to be part of a jewish community of faith and the synagogue
creates and sustains that community.
Please let me know your own thoughts about what you believe to be the
essence of your congregation.
Arthur Liederman
Hollis HIlls Jewish Center
www.hollishillsjc.org
Queens NY (250)
-----------------------------
82
As we begin a new year and you consider what investments you will make both
financially and by your participation in your synagogue, you will need ask
yourself what this may mean to your lives
What it means to each of you is up to you to decide. There is nothing I can
say on its own to make this place significant in your lives.
But I do want to take a moment to share some of my own reflections about the
synagogue and the meaning it has for me and perhaps for many of your
neighbors - those sitting in front of you - or to your left or to your right
or those behind you - and perhaps for you.
The answer lies in what it means to be a community.
This exercise at this moment is fitting because these days of awe are times
for reflection, rededication and reaffirmation of who you are, who you want
to be and who you should be -
a time for evaluating what gives meaning to your life and how to make your
life meaningful
And a central part of what we are is our Jewishness - our Jewish identity.
A fact which cannot be denied by virtually anyone in this sanctuary is that
by being here tonight in this one place, at this one time, we are expressing
our sense of Jewish identity.
It means something to everyone in this room - to me -pick out people -
By our very presence, we accept and recognize that Jewish identity as part
83
of who we are -
It is the source and instrument of our spirituality and the wellspring for
answering the endless questions we have and will continually ask about our
existence.
After I accepted another term as president I did two things - one was
consider obtaining the psych consult that my friends and family were
recommending (should have found a replacement) - but I put that idea aside
and took time this summer to reflect on really what it is about a synagogue
that is so important - Why have one.
After all here I was now devoting another two years to its maintenance and
acting with other officers and board members as a custodian of this center
for my neighbors and friends.
How does the synagogue relate to my sense of Jewishness or my Jewish
identity? There have been synagogues throughout the centuries - even without
gyms and pools - why the need - what connects people to them to devote their
time, energy their financial resources to sustain them.
While reflecting on this question I experienced the personal loss of my
mother in July - it was the end of a difficult 3 months of unexpected
physical deterioration. In the midst of grief I was comforted by family,
friends and by our community.
I did not need the synagogue as a building - I needed it and found comfort
from it as the center of that Jewish community.
We have all experienced that when we grieve, or when we suffer and or when
we hurt - we are healed by our family and our friends and equally by our
84
community -
by those who connect with us on many levels - but importantly those who
connect with our Jewishness in dealing with life's challenges -
I know that almost everyone in this room has either been the recipient of
that healing support or has given it to others - in this room - as part of
this synagogue - a Jewish community
At the end of this summer when we had our first Bar and Bat Mitzvah to start
the new year - Rachel and Jeremy Landau - children and grandchildren of
active and supportive members of this community. There was a congregational
Kiddush and together we celebrated this simcha as a community.
It says something about our values about who we are when we act as a
community and support each other.
When we engage together in prayer and study and good deeds.
When we act as a community on our Mitzvah days - and reach out to others in
need or give blood.
It is this essence of community that runs through even our time for prayer
- our services not being merely a personal moment for prayer but a communal
experience - It says so much about our sense of community and our values as
we together during our service and our Torah reading say a mishaberach for
family and neighbors and friends - or when we join in welcoming home those
who went on trips or vacations - or returned from illness or recognize
anniversaries and birthdays with a special aliyah - or even as we create the
minyan for someone to stand amongst us and say kaddish.
85
It is all part of that connectiveness with others and the human need for a
shared sense of identity and shared value that makes each of our lives
whole. We as Jews are social beings and our Judaism teaches us and demands
of us that we be socially engaged. It is part of our Jewish Identity. We are
more than ourselves - we are our family - but we need to and should be more
than merely our family.
Do some of you remember the Gene Wilder film - the Frisco Kid - it takes
place in the late 19th century = a Rabbi from Poland is sent for by a San
Francisco synagogue - The Rabbi is just starting his travels across the
United States and is alone and lost having been abandoned by some
unscrupulous thieves in Pennsylvania - just then he looks across the fields
and sees some Amish men and runs to them yelling lanceman lanceman and
rapidly speaking Yiddish to them -
Jewish Identity and Jewish Community.
We need it, we search it out and we respond to its presence.
While we may all enter the synagogue through different doors -connect in
different ways, on different terms - at different times - everyday of the
year - or just four times a year - recognize as I do that the synagogue is
nevertheless in your life and a part of your life as we seek and need an
outlet for our Jewish identity based on shared core values informed by our
Judaism - our shared heritage.
A synagogue connects me to a sacred community that is seeking and giving
voice to our quest for spirituality-
The synagogue sustains the community and without the connection in our lives
- as dramatic as it may sound - we all lose in some way our Jewish Identity.
86
Jewish culture cannot be divorced from religion - but religion means a
Synagogue community without which neither jewish culture nor religion will
survive.
There is no better institution likely to satisfy the spiritual search - Fact
: Jews who belong to synagogues are equally more Jewishly engaged elsewhere
- communally, ritually, philanthropically and culturally.
The one institution in our Jewish lives that creates the strongest sense of
spiritual community is our synagogue. From it lies the core of our values
and from it springs our work in other Jewish organizations.
When I speak about the synagogue - it is no longer a building - and it is
not about "them" or the office or please not about the President or any
officer - the synagogue is not the Rabbi or a the Cantor - it is us - it is
you ---- Stanley Dauber - and you ----- and you -----
Take a moment and think about who you have gotten to know in this
congregation and perhaps get to know those who you have never spoken to but
see every year or every Shabbat. You will hear experiences that parallel
your own - because on a macro level we are all on the same Jewish Journey
with the same shared values. It is the essence of what creates community.
Whether it is the experience of the Kaplans, Jim is our Vp of Membership,
motivated now to volunteer his time as others have done - by that first
experience on their Jewish Journey with young children seeking a nursery
school and finding others on that same Journey and bonding as a part of our
greater synagogue community.
Or Malka Lesnik who called me and wrote to me about how her Jewish journey
has been inspired and informed by her Jewish community at Hollis Hills.
87
As you go through the brochure,
as you reflect on the multitude of activities, on the operation of a nursery
school or Hebrew school, or on bar or bat mitzvah lessons going on in the
building - or on those engaged in the study of Jewish text and thought - or
youth groups -
Reflect on how this is your synagogue and your community helping to bind
people within a community helping each member on their Jewish Journey - As
well as on your own.
We support each other because we are related. And the vehicle for that
support and for enriching all of our respective Journeys is our synagogue.
As human beings we innately seek the sacred - Just by virtue of our humanity
we are drawn to curiosity about God and connection with the sacred - a
connection with a sense of life's purpose and to a place to build a life
narrative alongside others who are doing the same thing.
And that is my message. When it comes right down to it, a sense of Jewish
identity longs for connection to a Jewish Community. The sense of purpose
and that place to build a life narrative alongside other doing the same
thing.
Without that connection with and through a synagogue there is nothing - one
may be Jewish but the source and support of that identity will be lost.
As Rabbi Lawrence Hoffman in his book on Re-thinking the Synagogue said the
synagogue is
88
"a place where Judaism's eternal values are represented through the sacred
drama we call prayer - if we let it, our synagogue can in a small way help
us to understand that we are all connected to each other - to the cosmos to eternity - to God"
We must all seek to enrich and support this sacred community - in a sacred
contract of prayer, study, good deeds, social action and healing.
As we begin this New Year together let us be committed to being a welcoming
and supportive community - a place where we know about each other, a place
where we continue to care and support each other. No simcha, no loss, no
life challenge should be experienced alone - it is not the Jewish thing to
do and I assure you that Rabbi Wise, Cantor Zim, Rabbi Simckes, your
officers, will not let it happen - nor will your community let that happen.
That is what it means to be in a community and that will be our recurrent
shared theme and purpose together. This is the return on each of our
investments that we annually are asked to make. That is the meaning and
purpose of the synagogue.
So I have concluded that a synagogue is really a set of sacred relationships
that constitute a community and the sacred acts that flow from it.
Relationships and acts by which we emulate god. It is a place where we know
the presence of god among us and honor each other as made in god's image. It
is where we celebrate each other's sacred stories - and in some small way
share in each other's life narrative.
In some small measure I ask you to reflect on your membership in this
community and the social contract that it creates as being part of that
caring supportive community. And when your community comes and calls on
your
support and continued investment in this communal venture - whether by
89
participation, volunteer needs or with the annual financial investment that
will sustain it - that you will join hands with each other and do what you
can, when you can. These doors should never shut - because we do care about
each other and we care about our connection with each other as a community
and our connection with our Jewish Identity.
We all know that there is a cost and that the synagogue will not exist
unless the proverbial freight is paid. I accept it as part of my sense of a
shared burden. I do not question it because there is nothing to question
about it - it is a priority as a Jew. I must belong - I need to belong - I
must keep it alive. As the letter I sent recently pointed out there are
many ways we can address the financial obligations of being part of this
community - the first is reflected in your congregation's Kol Nidre drive.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Arthur’s 2006 KN Speech
Thank you Rabbi
I want to take this opportunity to note that this Yom Kippur I have
asked each of the past Presidents who are present with us to sit with me
on the Bima. This is a time of new beginnings but it is also a time for
continuity with those who helped sustain and create the foundation of
what we will build upon. So thank you to Herb Storch, to Mike Borman,
Mike Wolkofsky, Mike Trager, Morty Pearlman and Rebecca Reich.
Mah Nishtanah HaLailah HaZeh, MiCol Ha Laylot?"
No I am not going through delirium - Of course this question is not
associated with Yom Kippur.
And yet, as I thought about my comments tonight, I couldn't escape
coming back to that question.
"Why is this night different from all other nights?"
Just what is it about Kol Nidre?
90
-What causes the air of excitement,
the awe,
the anticipation as we eat our final meal before the fast, as we race the
clock, as the hour of Kol Nidre approaches?
-And
what is it that propels Jews all over the world to a attend a synagogue
on this night, so many attending on this one night of the year?
What is it about Kol Nidre ?
in looking for an answer I decided to turn to that ancient and
comprehensive repository of Jewish commentary - the Internet!
And I found an essay entitled, "The Impact of Judaism on My Life" by
a former President of a Reform congregation in San Antonio Texas.
The author discussed the impact of Judaism on her life. She wrote,
"I tried to pinpoint my very earliest Jewish memory. The oldest one I
can remember was as a small child of three or four years old. My
grandfather had served as Cantor. I recall getting restless during the
long service... I woujld wander up to the bimah and started crawling
around under my grandfather's feet. He was singing "Kol Nidre" at the
time.
I remember sitting on the floor playing with the fringe of his tallis,
mesmerized by his beautiful voice. I do not know how long I was there.
To this day I am extremely moved by the singing of "Kol Nidre" and I
have no doubt that my love for the melody and music in general has its
roots in that day. I have kept (my grandfather's) tallis for the memories
it holds and the scent of him which still clings to it."
Perhaps, this essay touches upon the meaning Kol Nidre can hold for
each of us.
Kol Nidre is special because it evokes in us the memories of places and
times past.
91
It brings back recollections of loved ones, both near and departed. It
transports us to our roots and where we come from.
No matter where we are from, Kol Nidre takes us home.
And home for all of us is the Hollis Hills Jewish Center.
Make no mistake, HHJC is truly a home.
There is a story of a gentlemen who, when greeted at a community
program was asked if he wanted some information about the synagogue.
He didn't really need any information. He knew everything he needed to
know from driving past the building every morning.
None of us just drove by or walked by; rather we actually made the
decision to stop and we came inside.
Why did we make that choice? Why are we all here tonight even if the
last time may have been months ago or even a year ago?
You know = there is no such thing as a Three-day-a-year Jew. We are
Jewish all day everyday regardless of when you show up here.
But why come to the synagogue = In part we come because of those
memories.
We enter the doors of a synagogue, and we remember the pride in our
parents' eyes when we were Bar or Bat Mitzvahed.
We remember the sweetness of our aufrufs and weddings.
We remember the faces of our children at their baby-namings.
And we also remember the tears that we cried as we said kaddish for
those who are gone.
But equally I am sure that many of you are thinking:
''I'm a member of the Hollis Hills Jewish Center, but I hardly come at
all. I either don't have kids in the schools, or if do, I just drop them off
and go on my way. I didn't even have to join, but I did because I want to
support the shul. I come on the High Holidays, and maybe also once or
92
twice a year to say Kaddish. Look, I pay my dues, what more do you
expect of me?"
First, thank you, because you didn't just walk or drive by, you chose to
become and remain a member, and we could not function without you.
Second, consider all that we have to offer you, and what you can offer to
us.
Read the Dateline, look at our Adult Education flyer, and see what
interests you. Volunteer - even if you only have a little time available.
Increasing your involvement with HHJC will be an enriching
experience for you.
Third, think again about why you are here; what personal memory
makes you come look for a synagogue at this time of the year, what
makes you come to the Hollis Hills Jewish Center and what can this
institution do to satisfy that need.
We all know that without your financial support, we cannot survive.
But before I ask you for that support, I want to reflect further on why
we are here tonight - together as a community.
What is the import of the synagogue in making us whole as Jews?
But what makes a Jew feel Jewish?
A synagogue is the place where we teach our children what it means to
be Jewish and remember.
A synagogue is where we mark the most joyful and the most painful
moments in our lives.
Perhaps you are seeking to associate yourself with something special, to
instill some holiness in your life through association with a synagogue something that you cannot get in other ways.
Perhaps it is community.
The famous author HARRY GOLDEN' in his AUTOBIOGRAPHY,
related how he questioned HIS FATHER ABOUT WHY HE
ATTENDED SYNAGOGUE REGULARY.
93
HARRY'S FATHER REPLIED,
"A JEW IS A JEW LIKE A FRENCHMAN IS A FRENCHMAN.
NO RACE OF PEOPLE CAN SURVIVE LONG WITHOUT A
RITUAL AND SOME DEGREE OF DISCIPLINE.
THESE PEOPLE ARE MY PEOPLE,
PEOPLE I LIVE WITH,
THE PEOPLE WITH WHOM I CAME TO AMERICA WITH.
MY BELOVED FRIEND, DUDYA SILVERBERG GOES TO SHUL
TO TALK TO GOD, AND I GO TO SHUL TO TALK TO DUDYA'.!!
The Torah is a constant reminder that our religion is not just a private,
internal devotion, it has important outward, social manifestations and
many rituals.
It teaches us that Judaism is to be practiced as a public event. The
institution that supports and provides the vehicle for that need is our
synagogue.
It has been pointed out that it takes 4 generations of non-affiliated, nonritualistic families to lose Jewish identity altogether. The bottom line, if
you don't participate in some public ritual, your grandchildren, or your
great-grandchildren, will not be Jews. At some point in our life we must
pray to G-d in public.
The synagogue is the focal point for exercising that mandate of public
ritual. It is the central institution for maintaining Jewish life outside of
Israel. It is the sustaining and historic institution of the Jewish
community.
Unless one makes Aliyah to Israel or lives in an Orthodox community,
the synagogue remains the major institution to continue our heritage
and legacy to the next generation.
Look back to 19th century-life in the Shtetl, a world that exists only in
memory. Being Jewish at that time and place was very different from
being Jewish today - but some things have not changed - and one
94
constant was the centrality of the synagogue. The synagogue is the place
where we reaffirm our identity as Jews.
And it does that by being a multi tasking institution
The synagogue is a Bet Ha-Tefilot - a house of Prayer – a place for
communal prayer where those seeking solice for a loss and those seeking
companionship and friendships can pray in the sanctity and the
solemnity of the sanctuary.
The synagogue is a Bet ha Midrash- A house of Study... a place that puts
a premium on learning and studying.
The synagogue is a Bet ha Knesset - a House of Gathering and Assembly
serving as a focal point of a caring Jewish community.
All these roles begin with the same word- Beit- a house, a home.
And home for all of us is the Hollis Hills Jewish Center.
Our Synagogue is all of that.
The Hollis Hills Jewish Center is THE place we turn to in happy times
and sad times,
the place to be with others because LIFE REALLY IS WITH PEOPLE.
It is the safe place where we go to be with others,
to mark momentous occasions in our livesThere is no distinction between those of us who come once a year to say
kaddish, or three times a year for these High Holidays or every Shabbat
or every day.
ALL are welcome! All are part of the same community and all must
realize that we truly rely on each other.
Certainly this THIS SYNAGOGUE can and does FUNCTION AS AN
AGENT OF CHANGE AND IT DOES STRIVE TO TRANSFORM AND CAN TRANSFORM - OUR VALUES AND RAISE OUR
STANDARDS .
95
At the Hollis Hills Jewish Center we can take pride in having honorably
passed our pulpit to direct our ritual life from a great educator and
consoler in Rabbi Simckes to a deeply committed Rabbi Wise, a Rabbi
who chose us as much as we chose him – A Rabbi who saw the promise
in our community and its capacity to provide for each of us a home of
learning and prayer.
At the Hollis Hills Jewish Center with a dynamic Religious School and
Nursery School, to the sponsoring of Tot Shabbats to the development
of Post Bnai Mitzvot programs - we are a place where our children
count. We reach out to them, involve them, include them, and as a result
they actively participate in our services, in our youth groups, and in the
life of our congregation.
At the Hollis Hills Jewish Center we can be proud that as a beit tefillah
we have sustained a daily minyan - sustained by a dedicated group of
knowledgeable men and women that attend these daily services
regularly. Whether it's because they believe that a Conservative
synagogue must conduct these services or consider it a personal
obligation to attend simply help those wishing to say Kaddish by
providing a minyan – it doesn't matter. The bottom line is that these
congregants have been offering a comfortable, welcoming davening
environment - often at times when we need it most - for decades.
We invites members of our congregation to come as far as they can and
the Hollis Hills Jewish Center will come the rest of the way.
As we start a new year – as we start enter a new phase in our
congregation’s history - What further goals do we have -what do we
hope to accomplish during the next two years-with the support of the
Board and with your support.
We want to act now to secure the financial future of our congregation;
we want to build membership and encourage membership
participation; we want to reach out to those who feel that they have lost
their connection to the synagogue and help them find a way to
reconnect.
We need to be a place where you can look to add a spiritual, an
educational or social dimension to your family's lives.
96
We need to give an outlet for your fulfillment of what Emil Fackenheim,
the great teacher, philosopher and theologian said was every jews
obligation after the holocaust,- That every Jew now would to fulfill NOT
613 commandments, but 614. The last commandment to be actively
Jewish!
Finally, we want to do whatever we can to support Rabbi Wise in
seeking ways to bring the meaning of being Jewish through ritual and
study to every member of the congregation.
Professor Abraham Joshua Heschel was quoted as saying
"Do as much as you can and then just a little more than you can. This is
vital -a little more than you can".
So in 2006 or 5766, we have truly reached a time of transition and we
need you all to do a little more than you can.
In formulating a campaign for your financial support and for your
increased participation in our synagogue life - I have elected to turn to
the Ethics of our Fathers – Perkei Avot and Hillel who said:
If I am not for me, who will be?
If I am for myself alone, what am I?
If not now, when?
Hillel sought to balance self-interest with the need and goal to be a part
of something bigger and participate in something greater than merely
ourselves. The time is not late but we equally do not want to let the
opportunity pass to insure that our lives are more than merely images in
the sand of time.
It has been said that we leave our fingerprints on everything we touch
and are remembered by the ways in which we leave those marks.
We can leave marks that endear us to future generations.
If not now, when?
Raising money for the synagogue is not new. Leviticus ends the way it
began, by reminding the Children of Israel that the Tabernacle needs to
97
be maintained annually. There has never been a time when a synagogue
was self-sustaining. Fortunately most Jews have seen it as part of their
obligation to the synagogue, a predicted and predictable necessity.
We are all stretched to the limit with commitments to family, businesses
and ever shrinking free time. But as a Jew there is a place for the
synagogue.
We must reach out beyond the boundaries of our island and connect
with community – We each need to strive to find ways to leave that
mark - and amongst the various competing charities and good causes –
it goes without saying that you do have an obligation to your faith – to a
synagogue – to your synagogue.
Why remain connected to your synagogue?
There is a story a leaf on a tree, which looks out with envy at the world
about. jealous of the birds, who fly around him enjoying unrestricted
freedom.
"Oh, if I could be like the birds" dreamed the leaf. "If only I could fly
high and be as free as they."
Suddenly, a stiff wind blew and the wind and the leaf were free!
The leaf was lifted above the tree branch. The wind carried it high and
higher. When the wind died down, the leaf found itself in a free fall to
the pavement It came to rest on the sidewalk and soon was stepped
upon by passersby. Quickly, the leaf withered, crumbled and
disappeared. The leaf did not understand a simple message: "Not good
when detached."
A rabbi once said: “A Jewish person in his or her relationship to the
synagogue may be likened to a branch growing on a tree. As long as the
branch is attached to the tree there is hope for growth. But, once the
branch falls away, it is NOT nourished and all is lost.”
We have to be connected and attached to succeed. If we all are
connected and helping our synagogue with personal commitments, we
will have a better chance to succeed.
98
Now budgetary and financial concerns are of critical importance, but
they are not the end or the purpose of our synagogue. The budget is
driven by the services and programs, and that, in turn, is driven by our
mission and goals
In making this appeal, my predecessors - going back over 50 years –
have repeatedly recounted our expenses: utilities, maintenance, salaries,
supplies, postage, and all the other costs. Tonight, I won't .You already
know we have costs and we do our best to contain and control them.
So my theme is income - making sure we have enough income to cover
our day-to-day costs - income we need for our operating budget.
Tonight's appeal is critical.
So how do we try to pay for everything? If we relied simply on our dues
and fees to operate the shul, we would have to drastically reduce the
activities, programs, services and quality of our professional staff.
Our dues and fees account for approximately 70% of what is needed to
run our synagogue – dues reflecting only 30% of that share. Obviously
dues alone do not support all the endeavors of our synagogue.
Our dues structure is not based on a percentage of ones income. We
welcome members even when they cannot afford dues. Nor do we ask
as other congregations do to pay their fare share of dues.
Therefore, the balance of our budget relies on voluntary contributions
beyond the regular dues structure.
We do have planned several major fundraising events so that we can
reach our budgeted fundraising goal of $230,000. Fundraising is
essential, and we definitely need your help with it. But fundraising
doesn't take the place of or negate the importance of this Kol Nidre
appeal.
The Kol Nidre Appeal, as distinct from fixed dues, is the opportunity for
each of us to contribute to our synagogue community in a flexible
manner, in line with our individual ability to give. Yet we need to
receive as much as $70,000 from this appeal compared with past years.
99
Grocery Gelt to increase from its almost cruise control de minimus
number of $22,000 to $35,000.
Perhaps we should look at our dues and fees as covering 255 days of the
year with fundraising covering the remaining and the revenue from
this campaign covering of that 29 days.
Or you could say that 2 hours of every day will be funded through your
generosity tonight.
Can you say which hours or days we're not going to need?
We have sought a balanced budget and we have sought a plus side
budget but we have we have had deficits.
Whether we have a deficit this fiscal year will be decided in this room –
by what you each elect to do tonight and then what each of you decide to
do in the months ahead during our fundraising events.
Whether we meet our expenses depends equally on when you fulfill your
pledges, your promises and your obligations. We cannot pay vendors,
meet payroll and expend on programs with promises and pledges or
even obligations until it is transformed into a payment and is available.
That is why we emphasize the need for all of us to be cognizant of
helping with your synagogue’s cash flow. Whether we all can meet our
expenses depends on how high up in your list of monthly payments you
place the Hollis Hills Jewish Center.
These are the questions we all face as we meet the needs of a diverse
synagogue population, a Hebrew School and an aging building.
Long ago, our sages said, "Do not rely on miracles." More recently,
Chaim Weizmann, Israel's first president said, "Miracles sometimes
occur but one has to work terribly hard for them."
An American Tourist in Tel Aviv was about to enter the impressive
Mann auditorium to take in a concert by the Israeli Philharmonic. He
was admiring the unique architecture, the sweeping lines of the atrium,
and the modem decor throughout the building. He turned to his escort
and said, "This is a beautiful building. Was it named for Thomas Mann
the world famous author?" No, said his friend, it is named for Isaac
100
Mann, from NY. Really, I never heard ofhirn. What did he write? His
friend boldly answered, "THE CHECK!"
We invite all of you to participate again to the extent you are able – we
need your check.
Or to reprise Heschel - Do as much as you can and then just a little
more than you can."
This is vital-a little more than you can.
No matter how difficult, we have no choice but to each make an
individual commitment to do better than last year's pledge.
Think of the person to the right and to the left of you - it is not their
responsibility. It is my responsibility, it is your responsibility, it is our
responsibility.
It is our responsibility to insure that we continue to have a beautiful
building in which to meet and to pray, to have exceptional programs
and a superb and talented professional staff.
It is our responsibility to provide the resources for Rabbi Wise to
address his many goals and programming efforts and to keep the
promises that our congregation made to him – the promise that we are
the type of synagogue and congregation that he saw we have been and
can be.
I am not asking you to be generous with your High Holiday pledge. I am
asking YOU to be more than generous.
And keep in mind that Your generosity enables our youth through our
Hebrew School, not only to prepare for their B'nai Mitzvot, but also to
provide a deeper understanding of the Jewish people, of our history and
of our proud heritage.
Your generosity enables our teens, who are going through transitions
and changes in their own lives, to balance secular demands with their
evolving and maturing Jewish identity.
Your generosity enables our adult programming to broaden our
knowledge of Judaism as it impacts upon the changing aspects of our
lives.
101
Your generosity enables the religious and not-so-religious to experience
Judaism in a manner best suited to their own personal spiritual needs.
Your generosity enables those interested in or concerned about political
issues to learn how these issues effect Jews.
Your generosity enables our entire synagogue family to know that in
both good and bad times, not one of us is alone.
Look at your card - see what the next level over last year's pledge is.
Can you move to that level this year! Can you increase by two levels? If
you want to pledge halfway between two levels, turn them both down or
put just call the office.
Most importantly your generosity does matter – whatever you can do
and whatever increase you make – each of you does make a difference a
big difference – If not now, when?
And to those who ask whether there one contribution matters In a great winemaking town in medieval Europe came word that the
grand rebbe was coming the following year. They decided to collect the
best of each vintner's production every week before the Sabbath. They
fashioned a great vat and a sturdy set of steps leading to the top of the
vat. Each week every vintner would pour a goatskin flask-full of his
wine into the vat.
One guy, whose name is not important and whose wine wasn't the best
nor the worst, decided that he could fill his skin with water-and no one
would know. So each week he would take his bow, and at the end of a
year, the grand rebbe came.
He ascended the steps and with a crystal goblet created for this
occasion, he scooped the goblet into the vat and held the glass high over
his head for all to see. And there gleaming in the sun was a crystal clear
glass of water.
Your decision tonight and throughout the year – to participate in our
fundraisers or attend a program does matter and cannot go unnoticed.
If not you – then who can we rely upon – who needs us – who will
support this institution. Each contribution does matter:
102
"For the Jew, sharing ones personal wealth is not merely a
praiseworthy act- it is an obligation. Tzedakah is a Mitzvah, a
commandment given by God."
I hope by my role as president I have shown my children by example
one way to give back to my community, and that is truly my reward.
I am sure that most of you do not want to be a synagogue president.
I know that all of you feel, like I do, that giving back is a basic attribute
of being Jewish, and I am sure you all give back in your own way, with
your own types of involvement. Tonight is the time to commit to both a
financial and temporal involvement with this institution.
When Moses had to build the Mishkan, the Holy Tabernacle, in the
desert, he made a direct appeal to the Children of Israel to contribute
their jewelry and precious metal and riches to build it. His appeal was
so successful, and the people responded with so many goods and
services, that Moses had to eventually say, in Exodus, Chapter 36 verse
6:
Hey people, Stop- don't give any more, we have enough.
My friends- the Executive Committee has standing instructions to
invoke the Insanity Clause of our Constitution and remove me from
office if they ever hear me utter the phrase "Stop- don't give any more,
we have enough. "
I wish there was enough, but unfortunately there isn't - not enough
time, not enough manpower, not enough money, if we are to continue to
grow and expand and do.
We have a goal that we need to reach today.
If not now when...
I ask you to search your heart in giving as much as you can so that we
can get through the year on a sound financial basis.
I ask each of you to make a gift that is significant to your individual
ability.
103
In return for your more than generous pledge, you have my pledge that
your Board of Directors will do everything in its power to make sure the
Hollis Hills Jewish Center remains a full-service synagogue, providing
and expanding upon its programming, meeting the needs of its
members.
As the ushers come through the aisles collecting the cards, I want to
extend On behalf of the Officers and Board of Trustees of HHJC, a
Shanah Tovah - may you enjoy a healthy, fulfilling, and productive year
and may all of us be inscribed and sealed in the book of life. Amen.
G'mar hatima tova
----------------------------------------------------------------Heidi Kolden
President
Temple Beth Sholom, (155)
San Leandro CA
Priorities. We all set them, in one way or another, deliberately or not. We get up, and
whether consciously or not, we decide what we will do for that morning, that day, that
evening, that week. We move in familiar ways, interacting with each other as we rush
about our busy lives.
We all have duties we must do to maintain our homes, ourselves, or our families. We do
them, both to be able to have the luxuries that life here can afford us, big or small, and to
support our selves or our families. They are our obligations.
We go about life in ways that are predictable, and yes, sometimes there is chaos, and
sometimes there is peace. When we come to a time in our lives, where we are wanting to
expand our hearts, grow spiritually, religiously, or reach out for support in times of need,
we turn to our beloved synagogue, and our wonderful Rabbi and Cantor. Here also are
others who care about us, love us, need us, and want us to be around so we can share and
enjoy life’s manifold blessings, and help ease our burdens when they are too heavy to
bear alone.
This synagogue is now 120 years old, and has stood the test of time. In today’s disposable
world, that is quite an accomplishment.
To give a reference as to what time was like when our synagogue was founded, some
examples of what was occurring in the world were that Coca Cola, modern field hockey,
and the 8 hour workday were invented, Geronimo surrendered, President Grover
Cleveland dedicated the Statue of Liberty, and shortly thereafter, Stanford had its first
cornerstone laid. We have come a long way.
104
Our synagogue and this congregation have survived through the great Earthquake of
1906, the Great Depression, World Wars I and II, the Holocaust, the Korean War, the
Viet Nam War, and 9/11. It has stood during the time of Israel’s birth as a country, when
we first walked on the moon, to the turbulent time of desegregation and equal rights. It
has stood here, for our us, for our families, when we have had happy occasions, where we
came together to celebrate and share, and it has stood here for us when there were
difficult times, when we pulled tightly to one another, and gave comfort and support. It
is our way to come together to share the good times and the bad. Side by side, shoulder
to shoulder, together, here, in this synagogue.
Yet, this synagogue doesn’t just happen like manna, falling from the heavens. It takes
efforts from you and me. It takes a community to support what we have. It takes your
help to keep it reaching for the future so that when it does come time for your children, or
your children’s children, or your friends, to celebrate some special time in their lives, it is
here for them. Or, when tragedy strikes, it too, is here to uphold us, support us, and give
us comfort.
We have such a vision for the future, and I feel we are on a huge upswing of monumental
positive change. There is a lot of work to be done to prepare for the renovations, and our
board and I are up to it and willing to give it our best. Because it is commanded, and
because it is a labor of love for each of us. But, we need you, and your financial support.
I ask you, what part will you have in shaping the future?
What part will you have in making this vision happen and become a reality?
I am proud to be a part of this community. To me, this is my spiritual home, and you
are my family. You are my brothers, sisters, moms and dads, uncles and aunts. I have
grown so much since I first walked through those doors. And, I owe it all to you, the
Rabbi, and Cantor. This is your spiritual home as well.
I can feel it. Can you?
It needs you and your help. We must pull together to make things happen. We have so
much to offer, and it is all here, at your fingertips.
All great people throughout history were people just like you and me, but what set them
apart was what they gave back to their community. What will you do? To change a bit
of the famous quote of President Kennedy, Ask not what your Temple can do for you, but
what you can do for your Temple, because by giving to it, you give to the future.
Once upon a time, an old Rabbi spoke to his congregation and said,
“Oy! I have bad news, good news, and bad news about our synagogue.”
His congregation all clamored to hear what the news was.
He quieted them, and began.
“The bad news is, the synagogue is in desperate need of repair.”
The congregation looked about them and heartily agreed.
The Rabbi continued, “The good news is, we have the money!”
Oh, how the congregation rejoiced!
105
Then they said,
“But you said bad news, good news, and bad news.
What is the other bad news?”
“Ah!” said the Rabbi, “The money is still in your pockets!”
Supporting Temple Beth Sholom financially should be a commitment in your life, as it is
in mine.
Make financially supporting your temple a priority in your life, and ensure the future
growth of your synagogue.
Renovations that are sorely needed can only happen if you make the monetary
contribution to your Temple a priority.
I challenge you, for this donation is one of the highest forms of Tzedakah, as it is not just
for the present, but for the future, and future generations to learn and grow and expand
their horizons.
Because your family, your friends, your community, you yourself, and generations to
come will all benefit from your dollars.
I challenge you to make your donation a commitment and rise above.
Make it count, because it is commanded, and because for you too, it is a labor of love.
Please take your High Holy Days ticket and bend back the tab with the most generous
amount you can. Our ushers will come down each aisle and pick up the tickets. Begin
the New Year of 5768 with a gift of Tzedakah that launches Temple Beth Sholom into its
next 120 years!
And, as we embark upon our next 120 year journey, I leave you with this:
May God bless you and guard you.
May God show you favor and be gracious to you.
May God show you kindness and grant you peace.
Thank you,
106
Ken Goodman
President
Congregation of Moses (140)
Kalamazoo, MI http://www.congregationofmoses.org
SULAM 31YK speech 2007
The Congregation of Moses is many things to many people.
A place to gather and pray together…
A place to learn, whether in our Religious School, one of the Rabbi’s classes, or in a quiet
corner of our library…
A place to meet and socialize with our friends…
A place to celebrate life-cycle events… just to name a few of the things we do here in our
shul.
When I spoke last week, and also last June at the Installation Shabbat, I mentioned some
of the many congregants who give of themselves in so many different ways to help our
synagogue function and continue to improve in a variety of areas. I can’t say “Thank
You” enough to all who have given of themselves and their resources in the past year,
and again I encourage more of you to volunteer and experience the satisfaction that
comes with being a part of a successful and productive group working to improve
different aspects of our synagogue life.
Today I want to talk about something else that is necessary to maintain the structure,
function and programming of the Congregation of Moses.
We work to keep our building safe and secure, we keep a Kosher kitchen, we make
available the full time services of a wonderful Rabbi, we operate a Religious School to
teach our traditions and values to the next generations --L’dor V’dor. We keep the
Eternal Flame burning,
These are just a few of the things that require adequate funds that are budgeted carefully
and appropriately.
Each year our Board of Directors and Officers put a lot of effort into coming up with a
budget which is realistic, prudent, and yet meets the needs of our Congregation.
Many of you may not be aware that, compared to other Conservative synagogues in other
areas, our dues are a bargain. There are many synagogues with basic dues that are twice
the amount of our “Fair Share” dues. We traditionally rely on donations and various
fundraisers to make up what has annually become a sizeable gap between our dues, fee
and tuition revenues, and the actual costs of our basic operations. In other words, we
have a deficit, and we need your help.
There are several ways you can help:
1. Be generous when you fold the tabs on the pledge cards you were given today.
These donations to the General Fund are vital, and enable us to maintain our
operations and to serve our membership and their needs. Someone will be
collecting the pledge cards shortly.
2. Join the Chai Club. Chai Club members voluntarily pay dues at a higher rate as a
mitzvah. This helps to subsidize members who cannot afford to pay “Fair Share”
107
dues, as well as decreasing the deficit. I want to thank all the members of the
Chai Club, and remind everyone else that there is room for more names to be
added to the plaque in the lobby which lists the members of the Chai Club. Please
talk with our synagogue Treasurer Evan Litvak, or with our office manager
Shirley Mengel if you would like to step up and be counted as a member of Chai
Club, which I hope more of you will do in the coming year.
3. Participate in the Etz Chaim Endowment program. Interest income from our
endowment funds helps keep our deficit down, and provide program-specific
funds, but we really need to grow this source of long-term financial support.
Werner Sichel, Richard Kirschner or any of the Stewards listed on the sheets in
the seat backs in front of you, can answer any questions you might have about
getting involved. And thanks to those who have already expressed their
generosity and commitment to the long-term survival of the Congregation by
participating in this terrific program.
4. Buy ScripCents gift cards, so that a portion of what you normally spend on
everyday purchases gets donated by participating merchants to the Congregation.
It’s simple, It’s quick, and it costs you nothing but a little bit of effort to order the
cards from an extensive list of participating businesses. We even keep some of
the more popular cards for gas, D and W, and certain restaurants in stock for
“immediate acquisition”. Please talk with Gail Brot or Ed Goldenthal for details,
or see Shirley Mengel during regular synagogue office hours. We also need
volunteers to help take orders and distribute the cards in the lobby on Sunday
mornings.
5. Support the many different funds throughout the year with honor and memorial
donations. Also please support the various other fundraisers like the Yitzkor
memorial book in front of you. Thanks to all who participated and worked on this
and all the other fundraisers throughout the year.
All of us who have had the privilege of owning a home know the joy and pain of home
maintenance and home improvements that are needed to maintain the structure and
function of any building and facility over time. And so it goes with our synagogue home,
as it approaches 50 years of age.
Most of you are aware that we completely replaced the heating and air conditioning
system in the sanctuary and social hall last year. We also added a handicap access ramp
leading to the bimah, and, in just the last few weeks, we added railings on the steps
leading from the bimah to the ark, completely cleaned and kashered the kitchen from top
to bottom. We also recently replaced the poorly functioning air conditioners in the
synagogue office and Rabbi’s private office. Sisterhood, Men’s Club and Janet Heller
donated the funds for this project. Bruce Stein and the House Committee just finished
repairing and crack-filling the asphalt on the parking lot, and Men’s Club donated the
funds for the re-striping of the parking spaces.
These are just some examples of what’s been accomplished recently. Thanks to all who
donated their time, money, or both for these important improvements. While donations
have paid for the majority of the cost of these and other projects, monies were also taken
from the Building Fund, which has been depleted to a very low level.
There is much more that needs to be done.
108
The House, Building and Futures Committees have been working together to prepare a
list of projects necessary to maintain and improve our facilities over the next few years.
This list includes immediate, short term and long term needs. New contractor bidding
guidelines have also been put in place to ensure fairness and efficiency in the bidding
process.
Some of the immediate needs include:
1. Replacing and ramping the concrete leading to the front entry for improved
drainage, including new railings for added safety.
2. Sealing and filling in the old Air Conditioning wells outside the synagogue
offices.
3. Repair and reposition the drainpipe outside the business office and repair the roof
drain it attaches to.
These are necessary to prevent the leaking and flooding which has occurred in the
business office in the recent past.
The other immediate need is for the wood trim (fascia and soffits) around the build to
be cleaned and painted. Many areas have bare wood exposed, and several exterior
light fixtures need to be replaced, as well.
Some of the short term projects under consideration for completion in the next year
include:
1. Replacing the skylights to decrease heat loss; they have become brittle over time, and
several are cracked and soon to be leaking.
2. Replace or repair leaking sinks, faucets and countertops in some of the classrooms.
When we lost power for a few minutes during the Rabbi’s sermon last night, there was no
panic, which I really appreciated. Later, several people jokingly asked if we had paid our
electric bill last month. You know, our electric and gas bill is no joke, it averages over
$2000 a month, and constitutes by far the largest single operating expense we have after
employee compensation.
The long term list of projects to be considered over the next few years includes several
projects designed to reduce our energy costs.
1. Comprehensive Energy Audit
2. Replacement of selected light fixtures with more energy efficient and effective
lighting in critical areas.
3. Replacement of our old single pane windows, which is where we lose a lot of our
heat in the winter, along with the skylights.
We also will need to rebuild and regrade portions of our parking lot to correct poor
drainage and accumulation of standing water and ice near the building.
We really need to update our restrooms from the original 1960 décor and their highly
inefficient and just plain worn out plumbing fixtures.
We also need to improve our landscaping. Many landscape plans have been discussed
and proposed in the past, but never acted on.
To top it all off, we will need to replace our roof in the next few years.
Which reminds me…
109
A synagogue president gets up in front of the congregation and says: “I have bad news,
good news and bad news”. The congregation sighs and says: “Give us the bad news.” So
the president says: “The synagogue needs a new roof.” The congregation sighs more
deeply, and says: “Give us the good news!” "The good news is that we have the
money for the roof!" Much cheering and clapping. Then the congregation roars, "Give us
the bad news." "The bad news is that the money for the repairs is still in your
pockets".
…And so, we will be starting a Building Fund Drive shortly to raise the money needed
for the critical projects I just mentioned, and to replenish the Building Fund reserves
which have gradually been depleted. We will soon announce a goal, along with more
details of the projects including estimated costs for each project.
Some good news is that several significant, leading donations have already been made or
pledged, but obviously, we will need broad and deep participation from our entire
membership.
Start thinking about what you might be able to give. Consider sponsoring all or part of a
specific project.
This will take a lot of time, effort and money, but the results will be worth it.
We owe it to ourselves and the next generation to keep our house in good condition, and
to minimize future maintenance and operating costs wherever feasible.
We can do this, and we will do this.
I look forward to working with you to make it happen.
L’Shana Tovah
----------------------------------------------------------------------------Janice Brown - Sulam 31
Temple Hillel (480)
Valley Stream, NY http://www.templehillel.org
This is it, the final rewrite. The chicken no longer needs marinating and the
honey cake is gone. I’ve spent hours at the computer trying to get this right.
I’ve hopped on and offline looking for inspiration for my speech and all I
found were ideas in home decorating, new looks for fall outfits, the latest
products to help me sleep, and ways to fight terrorism.
Finally, I found a story about a newly installed synagogue president – she
was asked how she was sleeping with all the pressures and obligations of her
new role. She responded, “Ever since I became president, I am sleeping like
a baby. I wake up every two hours and cry.” Actually, I have been waking
up every two hours, mostly to think about this speech, but I’m still smiling
110
and having fun. This is due to the outpouring of support and encouragement
that you have shown me, which gives me the courage to stand before you
tonight. I am blessed with a family who supports me, because no matter
what they say, you can’t do this job without taking time away from your
family.
Having been in the trenches of volunteering for so many years, I was
actually surprised at what it takes to be THE president. All of a sudden
everyone knows your name and your number, and everyone wants to be your
friend. It’s quite flattering, and sometimes overwhelming. I am occasionally
surprised at what comes my way, often challenged, but always mindful of
the faith this community has placed in me. I must be attentive to the history
of Temple Hillel. I am awed by our beautiful building, and sensitive to the
issues of its diverse membership. I am privileged to share the insight of past
presidents who had a vision for temple Hillel, and blessed with dedicated
volunteers, board members, and professionals to help us grow. I pray that I
and others, that lead with me be granted the insight, skill and wisdom to
guide us through the years to come.
I have been asked about my vision for my term as president. In what new
directions will I take the congregation? My vision is simple; I want to build
on our strengths and assets, by building community. I hope we will build
new leadership and as well as our bank book. My vision is to continue to
enhance the opportunities for our spiritual and educational growth, to
include more community outreach, and to solidify and strengthen the core of
what makes our community so special. We need to develop a strategic plan
so we are prepared for the future. My hope is that more of you will get
involved in the variety of programs and opportunities we have, so our
community can grow closer and stronger. By building community, we grow
commitment… and that requires YOU to make it happen. There are many
ways you can get involved, you only have to pick ONE to make a
difference.
How do we build community? By continuing to offer the wonderful
programming we have for our young families, like Pizza in the Hut, our
dynamic religious school, our interesting family education programs, as well
as and those sponsored by our Parents Association. Tomorrow you will see
and hear the shofars some of the students made last week. We build
community by answering a request for a revival of Tot Shabbat, because if
we have the interested parents and tots, we’ll have this special Shabbat time.
111
We have a growing and thriving youth group, lead by Evie along a group of
young adults who all grew up in Temple Hillel. I am so proud to sign their
paychecks. What great role models they have become.
We’re creating opportunities for our high school students to get the
community service credit they need, by working within their own synagogue
environment, and doing mitzvoth.
Building community is a strong core value that needs to be experienced by
our youth, too.
Our Sisterhood and Men’s club offer a wide array of social, educational and
fundraising programs, but are you aware of how they reach out into the
community? Sisterhood has a year-round food bank collection, that helps to
feed the hungry on Long Island. You bring the non-perishable foods, and
they will see to its distribution.
The instructions to knit caps for preemies are in the bulletin monthly. Men’s
Club sponsors a yearly Chanukah party and Passover Seder for
developmentally disabled adults, as well as a barb-q at the Lawrence House.
This year we will participate in Jewish Disability month, in February, by
hosting an Inclusion Shabbat to help bring awareness to the various
challenges that those with disabilities face, and help them feel part of our
community.
We offer programs to our adult population. Hazak had a successful 1st
meeting with over 70 people attending, and there are more events to follow.
We also host a Shalom Club with the JCC, for the more senior crowd on
Mondays’ with some exercise, a nosh, stimulating conversation and
occasional speaker.
We build community by caring for those who may be unable to get outdoors,
home alone or elderly, by starting a “friendly calling club”. We want to
reach out and keep people connected to their community. The first step is to
know who we can reach out to, and the second is to ensure they get the
phone calls. Maybe they need a ride to temple or to the doctor and just need
a friend. On September 25, that’s this Tuesday, we will host a workshop lead
by a social worker and dear friend of Temple Hillel, Lori Hardoon, along
with Rabbi Graber, to learn how to lend that helping hand and get the
support needed to be there for others. Tell us if you know someone who can
use a call or if you would like to volunteer to reach out to someone.
Together we can bring our community closer and show others we care. If
you know someone who needs a helping hand, take a few minutes from you
day to say hello. I called a congregant the other day to see how she was
feeling after a fall and some surgery. She told me how touched she was by
112
the outpouring of phone calls she had received from her temple friends. We
are so proud of our Bikkur Cholim group, which calls and visit those in the
hospital or recovering from an illness at home. We need to reach out.
Temple Hillel has been known as the synagogue with the heart, so let’s keep
that reputation strong.
In conjunction with FEGS, we will participate in Jewish Social Action
Month which happens to be next month, with their “Light up Shabbat”
Program. They will provide us with energy efficient light bulbs and chicken
soup, and our job is to deliver them to the sick and elderly. Join us in this
effort.
Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of committed
citizens can change the world, Indeed it is the only thing that ever has.”
That’s how we build community; by reaching out…. we reach into our
hearts.
We build community by providing an informative evening on dealing with
the safety issue of home invasion. You can enjoy each others company at
our film festival; join our Ruach Readers book club. Our get your exercise
and have fun while learning Israeli Dancing.
Our Ritual committee is in the process of developing a plan to increase
participation in our minonyairres club. These people help to ensure the
continuation of our daily minyan, by attending so they and others can pray,
say kaddish, or add a spiritual uplift to their day. Minyan is the essence of a
Jewish community, and ours is one we are most proud of. If each of you
makes a promise to attend once a month, on the date of your birth, we would
never have to make a call for help again. We have minyan twice daily, 365
days a year. You need the commitment of more than 10 men to fill all this
need, women are warmly welcomed, and it qualifies as a mitzvah.
In addition, we support each other through good times and bad. This past
summer we were blessed to celebrate the urf-ruf of a couple who both grew
up in temple Hillel, and we celebrate B’nai mitzvoth where one of the
parents may have also become a B’nai Mitzah at Temple Hillel. We fulfill
the obligation of providing shiva minyans when needed. We build
community with the warm embrace of Jewish rituals.
We have increased our Family Friday night services to a monthly service,
due the positive response, and the busy lifestyle of today’s family. It’s a
short service, and counts towards Jr. Congregation attendance. We are also
going to experiment with a SYNAPLEX model of offering alternatives types
of religious services on Shabbat, to meet various ritual needs. Sisterhood
113
will be hosting a Rosh Chodesh service, or you can take a Torah troupe
class. Join us.
We need to become more aware of our environment, so we encourage you to
recycle bottles and bring those nickels to Temple Hillel, so we can make a
contribution to the JNF water fund in Israel. We want you to change your
light bulbs to energy efficient ones to help our planet. Or contribute to our
“plant a tree campaign” in January. We collect batteries for proper disposal,
and old cell phones to distribute to battered women. We are the keepers of
this earth.
Join us Sunday morning, October 14 to hear Dr. Howard Spero, a dear
friend of Rick and I, who grew up in Laurelton. He is a Professor from UC
Davis, and is presently leading the National Science Foundation’s Global
Warming Project. He will talk to us about, “The science of climate change:
the past, the present and the nervous future”. His brilliant power point
presentation will make you think. It is suitable for all ages, and we are
building awareness of our global community.
We can show a strong commitment towards our Israel community, by
attending the many events surrounding the amazing celebration of Israel’s
60th birthday, which Rabbi Graber spoke about on Rosh Hashanah. We’ve
got education classes, picnics, parades, scouts singing and much more. We
should encourage our 19-26 year olds to take the opportunity and enjoy a
“FREE” trip to Israel with Talgit Birthright, and show our support for Israel
by investing in Israel Bonds, when we have our annual drive tomorrow.
We support other Jewish organizations, the impact they have on our
community and the Jewish World, as well as the people make important
contributions to them. I’d like to recognize and congratulate our members,
Lorraine Abramson who was honored by UJA this past week, and Adrienne
Singer who will be honored by NCJW in 2 weeks, here at Temple Hillel.
Kol HaKavod
By keeping you up to date and informed of temple life with regular emails,
you are becoming more aware of the temple community and its happenings,
by getting a glimpse of our weekly Shabbat Shalom from home. If you have
not been receiving our emails, then it is because we do not have your email
address. Send it to us, so we can add you to our list. Using internet
technology saves us time and money and saves the planet of unnecessary
paper usage.
Arnold Eisen, the new chancellor of the Jewish Theological Seminary is
encouraging and empowering conservative congregations to determine their
114
identity, by furthering their discussion to include more mitzvoth. When I
think about, I can’t believe how much we do, and lucky we are to be part of
an active and caring community. Of course, we could always use more
involvement to keep our collective hearts beating. I hope that each of you
has found one or two new activities that you can make a commitment to get
involved in this year. There are so many things to choose from. And, I’m
open to hear your suggestions, as long as you are willing to make it happen.
We need leaders and we need participants, we need to grow and change as
the world around does.
So how do we build community when our membership has been on a
decline? We have more snowbirds than those that remain up here to shovel
the snow. There are fewer members to contribute to the financial stability of
our shul. Yes, we are blessed with a committed group of 83 people who have
joined our patrons’ society by making a pledge of $1000 or more, in addition
to their dues. I thank each of you for that commitment. But that’s not
enough. We need more people to join in this category. We need more people
to make the $500 mark. This is Tzedekah, charity. Each Jew is commanded
to give 10% of his or her tithe to charity. So far, only 52% of our
membership have contributed to the Kol Nidre campaign, and 28% have
contributed to the Yiskor Campaign. I’m disappointed. There should be
100% participation. Whether its $18 or $180 or $1800.
As president, I am humbled by the number of people who came to me
asking for help. They want to be part of the synagogue, but cannot afford it
due to illness, limited income, loss of a job, or loss of spouse. We cannot
turn people away, especially at time when they need us most, when they
need their community to support them. We are a synagogue, even though we
have to run it like a business. This year, they might need our help. And I
hope next year they will be blessed with good fortune to help someone else.
Perhaps this year you can help someone by being more generous.
I know that you are aware, that our dues structure addresses only a small
portion of our budget. This year we reduced a secretarial position, reduced a
teaching position, combined some issues of the bulletin, as well as other cost
cutting measures, and the next thing you know we have to replace a major
air conditioner, the fire escape needs to be repaired, concrete and brick need
fixing or the yarzheit lights in the minyan chapel are not working and after
much research we find out that the system is so outdated that we cannot get
replacements, so we have to replace the whole board. Just last week, we
installed extra lighting to help those of in the middle section will see more
clearly. It’s a never ending cycle. Our main entrance is finished and looks
115
welcoming; we fixed up the kitchen, and cleaned the outside of the building.
But we still have plenty of repairs to make on our houses. The list is very
long.
How else can you help? You can help by participating in our scrip
campaign, which raises money for the synagogue. There’s really no excuse
not to do it. All you have to do is purchase the scrip from the synagogue
office for any of your favorite supermarkets, and we receive a percentage of
the money you spend. It’s like a gift card and easy to use. It’s painless and
cost nothing more than a stop by the temple. I give them to my daughter who
is in college, to use for her food shopping, and Rick and I use them all the
time.
You can help the next time you go to Foodtown and you scan your green
points card, tell them to donate some points to Temple Hillel. When you
purchase wine or liquor go to Plaza or Peninsula Wine and Liquor and make
your check out to Temple Hillel. They, too give us money back. We support
them, they support us. Send merchandise for our Bazaar, get involved in our
Monte Carlo night, attend our Antique Road show, support our golf outing.
Help us where you can, this is your synagogue and our success is dependant
on you.
It’s so easy and it all adds up. But it doesn’t replace you giving to the High
Holiday campaign. Tomorrow, you will see those familiar fold down cards
for you to make your donation. No announcing pledges, like I promised, but
keep your promise to me and give as generously as you are able.
There is a story about a young man named Louis D. Brandeis. He attended
Harvard Law School where life was not easy, although it wasn’t the
curriculum that made his journey difficult. For three years, he sat alone at
lunch, uninvited to join the others. They said things like, “Brandies, you’re
brilliant. You could end up in the Supreme Court one day if only you
weren’t Jewish. Why don’t you convert? Then all your problems would be
solved.” Brandeis listened, but never responded.
By his final year of law school, his preeminence could no longer be denied.
Jewish or not, he was invited to join the honor society. It was an electric
moment - the first time this exclusive society accepted a Jew. On the
evening of the official induction, the room was hushed as all eyes were on
Brandeis as he ascended to the lectern. Slowly, he looked around the room.
“I m sorry,” he said, “that I was born a Jew.”
With that the room erupted in an explosion of applause and cheers.
“We’ve convinced him” the members of the audience thought. “He’s seen
our point.” Brandeis waited for the excitement to abate, and continued, “I
116
am sorry, that I was born a Jew, but only because I wish I had the privilege
of choosing Judaism on my own.”
This time there was no applause, no cheers, only silence. When the quiet had
grown uncomfortable, members of the exclusive society began to stand.
However, they didn’t walk out. Awed by Brandeis’ conviction and strength
of character and unequivocal choice, the members of the society gave the
honoree a standing ovation. Louis Brandeis went on to be appointed to
the Supreme Court by President Woodrow Wilson.
We all have choices to make, those who come to Judaism from another
religion or with no religion, as well as those who are born of Jewish parents
– being Jewish is a choice that requires a conscious commitment. Living a
Jewish life by choice and increasing those mitzvoth, is the most fulfilling
kind of Judaism. Each of you here today has made a choice to be a part of
Temple Hillel, and I think you made a wise choice.
I welcome those who are new to our temple family as well as those who
have been with us since the first brick was laid down 52 years ago. There is
a rich history here, and our assets are many. I applaud our doers, our donors,
our daveners and everyone who makes up our special community.
In building community, you have choices to make, and to take ownership of
our services and programs. Its not just about how much it costs to be a
member, or how much you should give for that privilege…but how YOU
can become more fulfilled as an active participant in living a Jewishly rich
lifestyle. Join us in our effort to keep Temple Hillel a vibrant and
meaningful synagagogue………A House of Worship, A House of Learning,
A House of Gathering.
As we reflect on the High Holidays, I am reminded of what our great sage,
Hillel said: “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for
myself, who am I? If not now, when?” Hillel’s wisdom, reminds us that we
are part of a larger community with a responsibility for one another in so
many ways. Together we can build community and build a stronger Temple
Hillel.
I am honored to have had the opportunity to speak to you tonight.
G'mar Chatima Tova. I wish you a quick and easy fast and a New
Year of good health, peace, prosperity, hope and joy and many,
many blessings. and May you be inscribed and sealed in the Book of
Life.
117
---------------------------------------------------------------
Murray Steinberg
Temple Israel of Daytona Beach, FL (185)
www.templeisraeldaytona.org/
2007 Kol Nidre Speech
If I have said or done anything in the past year to offend anyone, I
ask for your forgiveness.
If I have offended anyone by failing to speak or failing to act when
I should have, I ask for your forgiveness.
I also ask that you share with me your knowledge, your
experience, your wisdom, your suggestions.
Most of all I ask for your continued friendship.
You may know that Rabbi Zelermyer is a big Boston Red
Socks fan.
At the Ritual Committee meeting last Monday Saul raised a
question…
What should we do if next year the Red Socks play in the World
Series and a crucial game is to be played on Kol Nidre night?
Rabbi calmly replied, "Well, that's why video recorders were
118
invented."
To which Saul replied,
"Wow! You’re going to video tape Kol Nidre?"
This past year was bitter sweet. We said farewell to Rabbi
Perras as we welcomed Rabbi Gerry Zelermyer and Heske.
We came together for many LIFE CYCLE EVENTS.
 We said a final goodbye to our beloved friends:
Joe Bolton,
Tillie Cohen,
Regina Diamond,
Jerry Doliner,
Claire Engle,
Leonard Hartman,
Herman Levine, and
Bernard Oxman.
 We delighted in the Bar Mitzvah of Greg Kallman and Josh
Fox, and the Bat Mitzvah of Shaina Friend here at Temple
Israel.
 We were so proud of Maria, Annie and Ellie Pernicone who
celebrated their Bat Mitzvah in Israel with Rabbi Perras and
Cantor Becky.
 We were honored to witness the conversions of Dr. Raymond
Crigger, Susan LeMay, and Elizabeth Fox.
119
 What a joyous occasion when Rabbi Zelermyer officiated at
the Bris of Bennett Aaron Morse, son of Ari & Esther Morse.
 We also were privileged to welcome the following new
members:
(Would you please stand as I call your name?)
Charles & Karen Cabiac
David & Sara Danziger
Marcus & Dr. Sara Droker
Barbara Fink
Ethelyn Gass
Nancy Goren
Teja James
Walter & Ruth Kahn
Susan LeMay
Adrian & Adele Lewis
Ari & Esther Morse
Jesse Paquin
George & Anita Rimler
Lois & John Sauter
Gary Sedacca
Howard & Andrea Slutsky
Rabbi & Heske Zelermyer
A year ago we had 196 members, and we now have 187.
120
You may have heard about a trip Buzzy and Barbara took last
year.
Buzzy and Barbara were flying to Australia for a two week
vacation to celebrate their anniversary. Suddenly, over the PA
system, the captain announces, "Ladies and Gentlemen, I am afraid
I have some very bad news. Our engines have ceased functioning
so we will attempt an emergency landing.
Luckily, I see an uncharted island below us, and we should be able
to land on the beach. However, the odds are that we may never be
rescued and will have to live on the island for the rest of our lives!"
Thanks to the skill of the flight crew, the plane lands safely on the
island.
An hour later Buzzy turns to Barbara and asks,
"Did we pay our Kol Nidre pledge check to Temple
Israel yet?"
"No, sweetheart," she responds.
Buzzy, still shaken from the crash landing, then asks,
"B-B Barbara, did we pay our Jewish National Fund pledge?"
121
"Oh, no! I'm sorry. I forgot to send the check," she says.
"One last thing Barbara. Did - did you remember to send a check
to the Jewish Federation this month?" he asks.
"Oh, forgive me, Buzzy," begged Barbara. "I didn't send that
one, either." Buzzy grabs her and gives her the biggest kiss in 40
years.
Barbara was stunned. She pulls away and asks him, "So, why did
you kiss me?" Buzzy answers, "They'll find us!"
One of the most important lessons my Mother ever taught me
was that there are different kinds of love. She said “You won’t
love your wife more or less than you love me. You will love us
differently.” The same is true with our children and other family
members. I don’t love one more or less than another… just
differently.
Now I’m going to ask you to show a special love for Temple
Israel with a GENEROUS Kol Nidre contribution.
We can not wait until a crisis exists, and then plead with you to
pay for what needs repaired. We can not wait for somebody to do
something. Remember the saying:
“I used to say why doesn’t somebody do something – until I
realized… I am somebody.” Each of you is “somebody!”
122
Unlike most congregations, we have NO Building Fund
Assessment.
What we do have is an aging building with a leaky roof; down
spouts that all need to be replaced; the main air condition unit was
just replaced at a cost of almost $12,000; another air condition unit
is waiting for a new blower motor; the parking lot is showing its
age; we have an antiquated audio system in the sanctuary, the
carpet is showing signs of wear; and who knows what else will
need fixing in the months ahead.
Temple Israel is such a special place! It is a spiritual place like
no other!
It is a social club; it is a place to make friends; it is a safe haven
from all our worries; it is a place of learning; it is a fun place with
music and laughter; it is a place where we celebrate life; it is a
place to say final farewells; it is a place to make lasting memories.
This synagogue belongs to each of us!
We all have choices to make. For those who come to Judaism
from another religion or from no religion, as well as those who are
born of Jewish parents… being Jewish is a choice that requires a
conscious commitment.
Living a Jewish life by choice is the most fulfilling kind of
Judaism. Each of you here today has made a choice to be a part of
Temple Israel, and I think you made a wise choice. With
membership comes a responsibility to care for our facility.
You may hear the following commercial on TV:
123
A mezuzah from the gift shop… $15
Tickets to the Jackie Mason show… $45
A knish at the Duck Race… $3
For everything else we get from Temple Israel … priceless!
Because of the special love we share for Temple Israel, please
take out your envelope and bend a tab…
NO not that tab!
Turn down one higher than the one you were thinking of.
If you don’t have an envelope… well don’t let that stand in your
way. On Monday, just send in or bring your contribution to the
office.
On your check, on the blank line after the word “For”…
Write “For love of Temple Israel.”
Barbara and I hope that you and all your family may be
blessed with a year of good health, much happiness, success in
your endeavors, and lots of love!
Thank you for supporting Temple Israel.
124
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------Alan Schein, President
Beth El Temple, Harrisburg, Pa www.betheltemplehbg.org
High Holiday 2007
Thank you, Rabbi
L’Shana Tova,
One Rosh Hashanah morning, the Rabbi noticed that little Mollie
was staring up at the large plaque that hung in the annex of the
synagogue. It was covered with names, and small American flags
were mounted on either side of it. The seven-year old had been
staring at the plaque for some time, so the Rabbi walked up and
said quietly, “Good morning, Mollie.” “Good morning, Rabbi,”
replied the young girl, still focused on the plaque.
“Rabbi, what is this?” Mollie asked.
“Well, it’s a memorial to all the young men and women who died
in the service.”
Little Mollie’s voice trembled when she asked; “Rosh Hashanah or
Yom Kippur?”
125
You have given me the privilege of standing up and being a
part of this service today. I want to say thank you for the honor of
serving as your President of Beth El Temple.
These are the most sacred days of the Jewish calendar.
According to our tradition, the Days of Awe are a time when we
are supposed to devote ourselves to Teffillah, prayer, Teshuvah,
repentance, and Tzedakah, charity.
Tzedakah, literally means “righteous gifting” and is the
subject that I would like to discuss.
But before I launch into an Appeal for Beth El, it makes
sense for us to better understand who we are. Beth El
congregation was founded in 1926. The charter members,
numbering about fifty elected Henry Brenner the first President.
Rabbi Joel Geffen was called to be the first permanent rabbi, and
since the Congregation had no home, the Rabbi’s residence served
as the first Temple. The economic prosperity of 1926 made it
possible to raise $16,000 and purchase the lot where the Temple is
currently located. In 1927 $50,000 was raised and groundbreaking
126
for the Temple followed soon afterward. The congregation
weathered the Depression and in 1937 purchased a property in
Paxtang that was consecrated the Beth El Cemetery. Subsequently
the Temple was expanded in 1950, the parking lot was purchased
in 1961 and the New Sisterhood Hall was built in 1981 when Mort
Rosen was the President.
But we are much more than bricks and mortar. Before we
had a Temple building, in 1927, we had a sisterhood and a
brotherhood. From the beginning people joined in to be part of
bake sales, and blood drives. Beth El brought together families
and friends and played an integral part in the development of the
Harrisburg Jewish community.
Today, we are an egalitarian Conservative synagogue with a
diverse mix of congregants. Our identification of ourselves as
Jews and our hopes for our children and grandchildren’s futures
unite us all. Whether you are here every day, every week or not
often, Beth El Temple is here to serve you and your needs.
I’d like to ask you to help me out for a few minutes in
conducting a little survey.
127
If you were born and raised here at Beth el, please stand and
remain standing.
If you raised your children here at Beth el, please stand and
remain standing.
If you have children or grandchildren here at Beth el, please
stand and remain standing.
If you are currently a member or have ever served as a
member of our Board of Directors, please stand and remain
standing.
If you have ever been or are currently a Torah or Haftorah
reader at Beth el, please stand and remain standing.
If you have ever chaired or have been a member of any
Temple Committee, such as membership, or fund raising, or
ushering, or sisterhood Sabbath or any other significant Temple
committee, please stand.
Thank you all. You have made my point. Please sit down.
For so many of you, Beth El has played an integral part of your
lives. Beth El provides all of us with a place to feel welcome, to
pray, to learn, to seek company and to seek comfort. Some of you
participate in all the religious, educational, and social opportunities
that abound here. But for all of you, Beth El is essential for those
times in your lives that need to be shared.
128
It provides us with a community of people with whom we
can feel at home, a community of people with whom we can share
the good times and the bad times. It is a place to celebrate simchas
and to feel great joy. It is a place to sing and dance and feel
festive. It is also a place to mourn and receive support. A place
we can seek friendship among people of the same, and of different
generations. We are a multigenerational family. And, as with any
family there are differences of opinion but, more important are the
common interests and shared goals.
A healthy Beth El Temple is clearly one of those shared
goals. And I am pleased to say that the Temple is healthy, strong
and growing. We have a large group of dedicated and committed
congregants that insure a daily minyan, with many lay torah and
Haftorah readers. Our Religious School is excellent and is
growing and we are attracting more young families. This year the
Endowment Fund has grown and will continue to contribute to the
financial support of the Temple. We have three talented and
dedicated professionals to guide the administration, educational
programming and spiritual activities at Beth El.
All the wonderful activities at Beth El take money. We can
only continue these programs with your support. The amount
129
raised from dues does not cover operating expenses, not here nor in
any synagogue.
On Rosh Hashanah it is written and on Yom Kippur it is
sealed. Who shall live and who shall die, how you will live, how
you will die. Only three things can change God’s mind. Only
repentance, prayer and tzedakah can annul the severity of the
decree.
Our sages of blessed memory relate the High Holy
Day’s tzedakah to the half shekel donation mentioned in Exodus
30. Our European ancestors referred to this gift as “Kapparah
Gelt,” money donated to atone for one’s sins. It’s a longstanding
Jewish tradition to observe the atonement offered by Rosh
Hashanah and Yom Kippur by giving a gift to the synagogue.
Rabbi Cytryn and our other sages tell us that giving tzedakah is not
an option but a commandment.
Some would even say that God requires us to give to the
synagogue. Although, I think this group is mostly made up of
current and past synagogue presidents.
The High Holy Day Appeal booklet which you have in your
hands was created from the suggestions of congregants and is the
same as was used last year.
Thank you to our High Holy Day
Appeal co-chairs Mike Sand and Betsy Blecker as well as to
Michael Schatz for developing this booklet.
130
Please place the label from your admittance card on the
Appeal booklet. More booklets are available downstairs if you
need one. On the first page is your High Holiday pledge card,
just like in previous years. Turning down a tab is all that it takes.
The booklet will also allow you to support family education, USY
and Kadima, help to enhance our Kiddush on Saturday mornings,
or an endless number of other opportunities to do Tzedakah I
would like to take this moment to thank all those who have
participated in our Pre High Holiday Appeal. Your generosity has
been wonderful. Todah Rabah!
But as you know, making a contribution to Beth El is only
one type of mitzvah Other Mitzvot are listed towards the back of
the booklet. These are the original New Years resolutions
invented by Jews thousands of years before the secular world
claimed the idea.
Will everyone in the room please turn down tabs and pass the
booklet to the ushers? And will the ushers please collect the
booklets.
Caren and I wish every one of you “La Shana Tovah.”
May you have a happy and a healthy New Year and may we see
you in this building many more times during 5768.
--------------------------------------------------------
131
BURTON F. METZGER, President
CONGREGATION AGUDATH ACHIM (300)
YOM KIPPUR ADDRESS www.agudath-achim.com.
SEPTEMBER 22, 2007

AS YOU ALL KNOW, I WAS ELECTED AS YOUR PRESIDENT IN JUNE.
MY VERY DEAR FRIEND AND OUR PRESIDENT-ELECT, ED WEXLER,
SENT ME AN EMAIL RIGHT AFTER WE WERE SWORN IN. HE HAD
CHECKED THE EXIT POLLS AND REPORTED THAT I HAD A 60%
FAVORABLE RATING FOR THE WORK I HAD DONE TO THAT POINT!!
WHAT A GREAT START!!

KNOWING THE PRESSURES WHICH BEFALL A NEW PRESIDENT, GALE
CALLED ME A FEW WEEKS AGO AND ASKED HOW I WAS SLEEPING,
GIVEN ALL THE PRESSURES AND OBLIGATIONS OF THIS POSITION.
FRANKLY, I TOLD GALE, I HAVE BEEN SLEEPING LIKE A BABY.
EVERY TWO HOURS, I WAKE UP AND CRY.

MORE SERIOUSLY, I SINCERELY DO WANT TO THANK ALL OF YOU
FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE AS YOUR PRESIDENT. I SOUGHT
THIS POSITION BECAUSE I WANTED TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE
IN THE FUTURE OF THIS CONGREGATION, AND HOPE THAT BY THE
TIME MY TERM IS OVER, WE WILL HAVE ACHIEVED NEW LEVELS,
UNITED AS BROTHERS, WITH A STRONG, AND SECURE FINANCIAL
PATH FOR THE FUTURE; AND WITH YOUR HELP, WE WILL GET
THERE.
132

NOT EVERY SUCCESS IS REACHED VIA A DIRECT PATH. WHILE WE
DO NOT GET MUCH SNOW HERE, I AM SURE MANY HAVE SEEN A
SLALOM SKI RACE, AT LEAST ON TV, AND YOU KNOW THAT EACH
SKIER MUST PASS THROUGH 20 GATES AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE.
THE STORY IS TOLD OF WHEN ISRAEL HAD THE FASTEST SLALOM
SKIER IN THE WORLD, ASPIRING TO WIN THE OLYMPIC MEDAL. THE
FRENCH SKIER TOOK 38 SECONDS TO GO THROUGH THE COURSE,
THE SWISS, 37.9 SECONDS, THE ITALIAN 36 SECONDS…THEN THE
ISRAELI JUMPED THROUGH THE GATES. A MINUTE WENT BY
WITHOUT A SIGN OF THE ISRAELI, TWO MINUTES, AND FINALLY HE
ARRIVED SIX MINUTES LATER. AGAST, HIS COACH SAID WHAT
HAPPENED? THE BREATHLESS SKIER SAID, WHOSE IDEA WAS IT TO
PUT A MEZUZAH ON EACH GATE!!
OUR PATH MAY MOVE LIKE THE SLALOM COURSE,
AND WE MAY HAVE SIDETRACKS EVEN FOR VALID REASONS (LIKE
KISSING THE MEZUZAH), BUT WE WILL GET THERE…TOGETHER.

SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PAST YEAR SHOW THAT WE ARE
INDEED ON A GOOD PATH:
o LAST YEAR SET A NEW ONE YEAR RECORD WITH 22 NEW
MEMBER UNITS, AND TO DATE, WE HAVE 30 MORE,
REPRESENTING A 50% GAIN OVER LAST YEAR’S RECORD. A
STRONG MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE WILL BE MAKING MAJOR
EFFORTS TO CONTINUE THAT GROWTH, BUT THE BEST WAY
TO GET NEW MEMBERS IS FOR OUR MEMBERS THEMSELVES
TO ACT AS AMBASSADORS. BRING IN A FRIEND AND SHOW
THEM HOW MEANINGFUL THIS MEMBERSHIP CAN BE.
o FOR THE FIRST TIME, WE HAD OUR OWN MISSION
TO ISRAEL, LED BY MOTTI LOCKER. EVERYONE
REPORTED THAT IT WAS A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE,
133
AND WE HOPE IT WILL BE AN ANNUAL ONE.
o OUR CHANNUKAH PARTY HAD 110 PEOPLE ATTEND
o OUR TU-B’BSHEVAT SEDER BROKE GROUND FOR A
NEW WAY FOR US TO GATHER TOGETHER.
o OUR ANNUAL GILEE PROGRAM HOSTING A DINNER WITH
ISRAELI POLICE FORCES, SPONSORED BY THE SHERNOFF
FAMILY, HAD MORE THAN 400 PEOPLE IN ATTENDANCE.
o ATTENDANCE AT FRIDAY NIGHT SERVICES INCREASED WHEN
WE VARIED THEM TO MAINTAIN TRADITIONAL FORMATS,
BUT INCLUDE FAMILY FRIENDLY SERVICES AND ALSO HAVE
A LATE NIGHT SERVICE WITH A FORMAL SERMON AND
TOPICAL DISCUSSION.
WE HAVE FORMED AN IMPORTANT COMMITTEE TO STUDY
OUR FUTURE AND PREPARE FOR IT. THIS COMMITTEE WILL STUDY
OUR NEEDS WITH RESPECT TO WHERE WE WANT TO BE IN 5 OR 10
YEARS, AND WHAT WE WILL NEED TO ACCOMPLISH IT. ALL
ASPECTS OF SYNAGOGUE LIFE WILL BE EVALUTATED. WE
ENCOURAGE ALL MEMBERS TO TAKE PART IN THIS
PROCESS…MAKE SUGGESTIONS…PARTICIPATE IN OUR TOWN
MEETINGS…GET INVOLVED, FOR THIS IS YOUR CONGREGATION.

UNFORTUNATELY, AS WE GROW, OUR COSTS OF OPERATION GROW.
UNEXPECTED EXPENSES ARISE ALL THE TIME. OUR BUILDING IS
ALWAYS IN NEED OF MAINTENANCE.

ALL OF THESE THINGS COST MONEY. OUR BUDGETS ARE ALWAYS
STRETCHED. OUR DUES ALONE ONLY COVERS APPROXIMATELY 3540% OF FORSEEABLE EXPENSES. WE ARE FORTUNATE TO HAVE
MEMBERS WHO CAN AND DO PAY ADDITIONAL DONOR DUES
ABOVE AND BEYOND ESTABLISHED DUES LEVELS, BUT THERE ARE
134
ALSO MANY WHO NEED FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE WITH THEIR DUES.
THE BALANCE IS DEPENDENT UPON THE SUCCESS OF FUNDRAISERS
AND THE GENEROSITY OF MEMBERS WHO CAN MAKE SPECIAL
DONATIONS WHEN NEEDED. SO THE BAD NEWS IS THAT WE DO
NEED TO INCREASE OUR YOM KIPPUR PLEDGES THIS YEAR. I ASK
FOR TWO THINGS: I ASK FOR 100% PARTICIPATION IN THESE
PLEDGES, AND SECOND, WHEREVER POSSIBLE, AN INCREASE OVER
LAST YEAR OF 10% OR MORE. WHILE I WAS ALWAYS TAUGHT NOT
TO COUNT OTHER PEOPLE’S MONEY, I AM CONFIDENT THAT AS A
GROUP WE HAVE THE FINANCIAL WHEREWITHALL TO RAISE THE
FUNDS WE NEED. THE PROBLEM IS THAT THOSE FUNDS ARE STILL
IN YOUR POCKETS.

THIS SYNAGOGUE IS A COMMUNITY OF OURSELVES. ITS ENERGY
AND RESOURCES ARE OUR ENERGY AND RESOURCES. ITS WEALTH
IS WHAT WE SHARE. WHEN WE CONTRIBUTE TO THE LIFE OF THIS
COMMUNITY, WE AFFIRM OUR LIVES WITHIN IT AS PART OF A
SACRED COMMUNITY OF BROTHERS. THE FEELING THAT WE GET
OF PROTECTION, LOVE, INCLUSION, AND WARMTH HELPS US ENTER
THE NEW YEAR AND SEALS US FOR WHAT WE PRAY WILL BE A
GOOD YEAR, FILLED WITH HAPPINESS AND IN GOOD HEALTH.

AS I WISH ALL OF YOU SHANA TOVAH, I ALSO ASK THAT IF AT ANY
TIME DURING THE PAST YEAR I HAVE WRONGED OR OFFENDED
ANY ONE OF YOU, OR MY COLLEAGUES ON THE BOARD, RABBI
LEITNER, MORRIS, MOTTI, OUR STAFF, OR MY WIFE, JULIE, I USE
THIS DAY OF ATONEMENT TO APOLOGIZE AND TO SEEK YOUR
FORGIVENESS.

ON BEHALF OF ALL OF OUR MEMBERS, I WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME
RABBI LEITNER ON THESE FIRST HIGH HOLIDAYS HE IS WITH US,
135
AND THANK MORRIS STOLTZMAN, OUR HAZAN FOR THESE SPECIAL
HOLIDAYS. I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO RECOGNIZE OUR EXECUTIVE
DIRECTOR, MOTTI LOCKER, FOR DIRECTING THE DAY TO DAY
OPERATIONS OF THE SYNAGOGUE. AND I WANT TO THANK THE
WONDERFUL WOMEN WHO MAKE UP OUR OFFICE STAFF, RITA
CARLISLE AND JENNIFER JONES, AND BUILDING STAFF, MIDGE,
VIOLA, SIMEON AND ___, AS WELL AS THE GROUP OF TIRELESS
VOLUNTEERS WHO HELP THEM OUT. THOSE OF US WHO WORK
WITH THE OFFICE ON A REGULAR BASIS REALIZE HOW FORTUNATE
WE ARE TO HAVE SUCH. A TERRIFIC STAFF. OUR IN-HOUSE
MAINTENANCE STAFF HELPS TO KEEP OUR AGI NG BUILDING IN
GOOD SHAPE. FURTHER THANKS TO OUR RITUAL COMMITTEE FOR
THEIR WORK IN THE PREPARATION AND CONDUCT OF OUR
SERVICES, AND OUR USHERS, DAVID HIRSH, JONATHAN COHEN AND
MIKE STRIER. THANKS TO THE SISTERHOOD UNDER THE
LEADERSHIP (AND BAKING!!) OF BARBARA RUBIN AND LINDA
TILLINGER, AND TO THE MEN’S CLUB FOR THEIR GENEROUS
DONATION OF KIPOT.
LET ME CONCLUDE WITH A PARABLE:

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN’T LOOKING, I SAW YOU REACH OUT
YOUR HAND TO SAVE SOMEONE FROM FALLING, AND I LEARNED
THAT WE ALL HAVE TO HELP TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER.

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN’T LOOKING, I SAW YOU WRITE A
CHECK TO THE SYNAGOGUE IN THE MEMORY OF A FRIEND, I
LEARNED THAT ONE CAN GIVE ONE GIFT WITH TWO GOOD
RESULTS.

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN’T LOOKING, I HEARD YOU SAY A
PRAYER, AND I LEARNED THAT THERE IS A GOD WE CAN ALL TALK
TO, AND A GOD WE CAN TRUST, EVEN IF WE WONDER ABOUT WHY
GOD DOES NOT MAKE US ALL HEALTHY, ALL WEALTHY, OR ALL
WISE.
136

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN’T LOOKING, I SAW YOU FEED A STRAY
CAT, AND I LEARNED THAT IS WAS GOOD TO BE KIND TO ANIMALS.

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN’T LOOKING, I SAW YOU LISTENING TO
A COMPLAINT ABOUT ANOTHER PERSON, AND I LEARNED THAT IT
IS BEST TO LISTEN MORE BEFORE JUMPING TO A CONCLUSION.

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN’T LOOKING, I SAW YOU LOOK FOR
ANSWERS ON THE COMPUTER, AND I LEARNED THAT WE DO NOT
ALL HAVE ALL THE ANSWERS ALL THE TIME, BUT IN TODAY’S
WORLD, MANY ANSWERS ARE OFTEN AVAILABLE TO US THROUGH
THE WONDERS OF GOOGLE.

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN’T LOOKING, I SAW YOU GIVE OF YOUR
TIME FOR A WORTHY CAUSE EVEN WHEN YOU COULD NOT ALSO
GIVE OF YOUR FUNDS, AND I LEARNED THAT GENEROSITY DOES
NOT ONLY MEAN A GIFT OF MONEY.

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN’T LOOKING, I SAW YOU OPEN YOUR
HEART TO OTHERS TO BRING THEM HAPPINESS AND JOY, EVEN
WHEN YOU YOURSELF WERE SUFFERING INSIDE, AND I LEARNED
THAT IT IS GOOD TO BE UNSELFISH.

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN’T LISTENING, I HEARD YOU TELL A
RELATIVE OR CLOSE FRIEND THAT YOU LOVED HIM OR HER, AND I
LEARNED THAT IT WAS IMPORTANT TO VOCALIZE THOSE
SENTIMENTS BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE TO BE ABLE TO DO SO.

I URGE ALL OF YOU TO TAKE AN ACTIVE AND COMMITTED PART OF
THE AA SOUL, SO THAT IT MAY CONTINUE TO GROW AND
FLOURISH.
NATURALLY, A SOUL MUST ALSO BE FED IN ORDER TO
KEEP IT NOURISHED AND TO EVOLVE.
HERE AT AA, WE PROVIDE A
PLACE THAT OFFERS OPPORTUNITIES FOR FAMILIES AND
INDIVIDUALS TO PARTICIPATE TOGETHR IN MEANINGFUL
ACTIVITIES AND PRAYER. YET WE MUST DO MORE, BE MUCH MORE
AND BECOME A LOT MORE FOR US TO SUSTAIN OUR CURRENT
137
MENU OF PROGRAMS, AS WELL AS ENSURE THAT WE CONTINUE TO
EDUCATE OUR YOUNG, CELEBRATE THEM AS THEY BECOME B’NAI
MITZVAH, AND IN DUE TIME, MARRY THEM AND START THE WHOLE
PROCESS AGAIN WITH GRANDCHILDREN. WE MUST CONTINUE TO
INSPIRE OUR ADULTS WITH EDUCATION TO BROADEN THEIR
INTEREST IN JUDAISM, OUR SYNAGOGUE AND THE JEWISH
COMMUNITIES IN SAVANNAH AND THE STATE OF ISRAEL. WE MUST
ALSO ASSURE THAT THE SHUL, OUR CLERGY, AND OUR
COMMUNITY ARE HERE TO SUPPORT US IN TIMES OF SICKNESS AND
GRIEF. ONLY A SYNAGOGUE COMMUNITY CAN SUSTAIN US FROM
BIRTH TO DEATH, IN GRIEF AND IN JOY. WE CAN ONLY DO THIS
WITH YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT. WE NEED YOU. TO BE PART OF
US. EACH ONE OF YOU IS NEEDED TO NOURISH THE SOUL OF
AGUDATH ACHIM.

I WANT TO EXTEND SPECIAL THANKS TO MY WIFE, JULIE. FOR THE
NEXT TWO YEARS, MANY HOURS WILL BE SPENT AT EVENING
MEETINGS, AND EVENINGS WILL OFTEN BE INTERRUPTED BY
PHONE CALLS. THAT WILL MAKE THINGS HARD ON HER, AND FOR
THAT, I ASK HER FORBEARANCE. JULIE IS A CONSTANT SOURCE OF
INSPIRATION AND ENCOURAGEMENT FOR ME, EVEN WHEN IT
MEANS SHE NEEDS TO SHARE ME WITH THIS WONDERFUL
CONGREGATION.

EACH OF YOU HAS AN ENVELOPE WHICH YOU WERE GIVEN WHEN
YOU ARRIVED TONIGHT. THE USHERS WILL PASS AMONG YOU NOW
TO PICK UP THE ENVELOPES. PLEASE INDICATE YOUR PLEDGE BY
PLACING THE CHAI ON THE SELECTED LEVEL, AND PLEASE GIVE
GENEROUSLY. THANK YOU AND MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU.
138
Hali Goss, President
Emanuel Synagogue (175)
Oklahoma City, OK
www.emanuelokc.org
At Sulam, we called it our elevator speech - what you would say to someone you
were tying to explain your congregation to, in the short span of an elevator ride.
Emanuel Synagogue is a diamond in the rough, a bastion of conservative Jewrey
in Oklahoma. We are aging, and many of our congregants have forgotten how
special we are. With some newer, younger leadership, we are reinvigorating our
efforts, adding families, and making Conservative Judaism a viable option for
many who never before considered it to be one. We are warm and caring, and
just like a family (with all the good and the bad).
So there you are ... and here's my speech...
Kol Nidre 2007
A visitor to Israel attended a recital and concert at the Moscovitz Auditorium. He
was quite impressed with the architecture and the acoustics. He inquired of the
tour guide, “Is this magnificent auditorium named after Chaim Moscovitz, the
famous Talmudic scholar?” “No”, replied the guide. “It's named after Sam
Moscovitz, the writer.” The visitor says, “Never heard of him. What did he write?”
The guide replied, “The check.”
It has been an exciting year here at Emanuel. Since I begged for money last
year, we held 4 Bar Mitzvahs and 1 Bat Mitzvah, in addition to our remarkable
Bar/Bat Mitzvah for 16 adult congregants. We had an amazing Purim weekend
with Sam Glaser.
We have welcomed many new members to our Emanuel Family this year, and
we hope to see our numbers continue to increase.
We have made some serious improvements and repairs to our physical facility
this year. The renovation of The Gan is almost complete, and it is being utilized
as a multi-purpose room for everything from dinners to classes to services to
meetings. The downstairs flooding is now a thing of the past, with a new pump
139
and series of French Drains. As always, with an older building, there are other
repairs to be addressed. Our able House Committee is tackling these items one
at a time, ensuring our building remains a safe and welcoming place.
Emanuel Synagogue has tackled with renewed energy the arena of Social Action
this year. At the United Synagogue Youth Spring Convention in New Orleans,
our youth presented the Metairie Public Schools with over 120 pounds of
supplies, donated by our congregants. This summer, we sent 6 Victory Boxes to
Iraq, helping our soldiers reach out to the Iraqi citizens.
We continue to explore new ways for our religious services to reach out. This
year, Emanuel participated in the World-Wide Wrap; every adult present, male
and female, wore tefillah, some for the first time. We also instituted the Moses
Series, Shabbat services where our youngest children learn a little, pray a little,
and have a lot of fun. And on the second day of Rosh Hashana, we had a very
special blessing for all the children and grandchildren born into the Emanuel
Synagogue family this year.
In addition to preparing meals, baking and socializing, Sisterhood distributed
Shaloch Manot baskets to our seniors in nursing homes for Purim, and sent
goodies to the ICSS teachers at the start of the Sunday School year.
Men’s Club held its first 65-Team Give-Away this year; many members met and
ate pizza while waiting for their picks to be drawn for the NCAA Basketball
Tournament.
ICSS and Confirmation Academy have begun using a new curriculum this year.
ISJL, the Institute for Southern Jewish Living, provides complete plans for
lessons in Hebrew, Jewish Values and Observance, and Holidays. There is a
new level of activity in our classrooms, and a new excitement in the halls.
Hebrew School has expanded this year. In addition to our traditional Alef through
Hay classes, we now have two classes for children not yet old enough for Alef,
as well as a class for our post-B’nai Mitzvah students where they can further
refine their skills leading services as well as reading Torah and Haftorah. In all,
we have 25 students enrolled in our Hebrew school this year.
Our Youth continue to excel in their pursuit of all things Jewish. Two of our
Confirmands made Pilgrimage to Israel this summer. One of our graduates is in
Israel for school this year, attending Nativ. One of our seniors is President of our
Region’s United Synagogue Youth. Our Youth group has expanded to include all
children from pre-K through 12th grade.
I have a vision of two entirely new programs next year for Emanuel. One is
Hazak, an United Synagogue organization for those age 55 and over that deals
with programming for, addressing the needs of, and working with them, allowing
140
them to meet on a regular basis, not only with others from Emanuel, but with
others across the nation. I would also like to see us take part in the Keruv to
Edud iniative, reaching out to interfaith families in educational and spiritual ways,
ultimately resulting in the raising of Jewish children.
All these things take money. As you know, membership dues cover only part of
the Synagogue’s expenses.
Last year, we asked people to voluntarily increase their dues commitment. This
was helpful, but unfortunately not enough to enable us to do all I’d like us to do.
To put it simply, Emanuel needs your help so we can continue to offer what we
have in the past, as well as to continue to expand our offerings.
Back to the joke about the writer…now is the time for you to commit to being a
writer for Emanuel. I can’t promise we’ll name an auditorium for you . . . . . , but
you will be doing something real and important for Conservative Judaism in
Oklahoma City. So search your souls, and do something extra and special for
your synagogue. This is your chance to start the year off right.
Think for a minute, and then turn down a tab on the pledge card on the back of
the seat in front of you. Think about what Emanuel provides, and can provide,
and fold down the tab accordingly. After you have done so, please close your
envelope and pass it to the center aisle so that the ushers may collect them.
If you are a visitor, please consider joining Emanuel so we can continue to
provide all we do. I can’t get you a Membership packet this evening since it’s
Yom Tov, but I will have some tomorrow after the Break Fast, and they are
available in our office; please call next week and it will be our pleasure to mail
one to you. If any guests in our synagogue this evening wish to make a
contribution, please ask an usher for an envelope, and mail it back to the
synagogue after Yom Kippur.
On behalf of the members of Emanuel Synagogue, I thank you for your support.
La Shana Tova
------------------------------------------------------
141
~Marty Koplin
Congregation Sha’arey Israel
Macon, GA
High Holiday Speech 5768
Thank you Rabbi.
L’Shana Tova and good Yom Tov.
It is a great honor and privilege to stand here before you to address such a full
house!
Welcome to all our guests. There is something especially wonderful about seeing
our sanctuary full of congregants and guests. Whether this is your first time here,
or you grew up here and there is just no place else that feels like Yom Tov welcome to your shul.
Someone recently told me that, to her, the Rabbi is the heart of Congregation
Sha’arey Israel. In thinking about that, I couldn’t help but ask “Who is the soul of
this synagogue?” Perhaps we can try to answer this question together tonight.
First, I’d like to ask you to help me conduct a short survey. If you fit into
any of the categories that I will mention, please stand and remain standing until
the end of this exercise.

If you have ever served as President of CSI , please stand;

If you are currently a member or have ever served as member of our Board of
Governors please stand;

If you have ever led services, read Torah or Haftorah or delivered a d’var Torah
at any of our services please stand; this includes Bar & Bat Mitzvahs

If you have ever been a member of our choir;
142

If you were confirmed here or if you have participated in our services; leading
Ein Kelohenu, opening the arc, carrying a Torah had an aliyah, please stand;

If you teach in our Sunday school or our Hebrew school or have ever taught in
our religious school; please stand

If you have attended our religious school, please stand and remain standing

If you have joined our CSI family within the past year;

If you have ever served as president of our sisterhood or on the sisterhood board
even though it was merged with our board of governors years ago;

If you have ever chaired or been a member of any of these synagogue
committees:
Ritual
Board of Education
Adult Education
Gifts & Memorials
House
Hospitality
Ways & Means
Membership
Social Action
Rabbinic Search
Centennial

If you have ever volunteered at or participated in a CSI event, such as Supper-inthe-Sukkah, the Frank Lamb Memorial Kosher Chili Cook Off, Lunch & Learn,
Adult Ed movie nights, the Purim Shpiel, Chanukah Family night, Super Bowl
Night , the Mother’s Day Brunch,
143

If you have prepared a Shabbat Kiddush luncheon at CSI, please stand.

If you have helped out at Junior Congregation or served as principal of our
Sunday school please stand.
Now, look around. I think we just found the soul of Congregation Sha’arey Israel.
I salute all of you – and want to take this opportunity to thank you – for your past,
your current, and your future service to Congregation Sha’arey Israel. Please be
seated.
Thank you once again. This past year has been one of tremendous
accomplishments for our kehilla with a level of energy and participation that we
have become famous for. As in the year before it, Shelley Davidson and her
board were tremendously successful in their efforts to hold well attended events,
regular services, monthly Shabbat dinners, Lunch & Learn, movie nights, a Purim
shpeil, the Mothers Day Brunch and send volunteer to serve at the soup kitchen
and so much more..And then to top it all off - we hired a wonderful new rabbi.
As we saw a few minutes ago YOU are all the soul of CSI and a soul must
also be fed in order to keep it nourished and to help it evolve. Here at CSI, we
provide a place that offers opportunities for families and individuals to participate
together in meaningful activities and prayer. I encourage you to find the best
place for you and your family to get involved.
For starters, come to services every-once-in-a-while. If you aren’t sure of what’s
going on in services, that’s ok. Someone will usually call out a page number, and
if you miss it no one will mind if you ask the person next to you. Stand up when
you see others standing, and sit down when they sit down and soon you will start
to understand when you are supposed to stand up and sit down. You should
know that no one is looking over your shoulder. Simply try to get what you can
out of the service, even if you don't know Hebrew. If you start coming to
services after about the third time you start to know the tunes and before you
know it you’re singing along, too. Attending our Shabbos minyan is a good
144
opportunity to simply reflect on the prayers, your week, people or questions
you're concerned about, or anything else.
If you are concerned about getting called up for an aliyah you always have the
option to say "no thanks" -no one will make fun of you or be offended. On the
other hand, there is a transliterated version of the blessings next to the Torah,
and the gabbai will be happy to help you if you would like to give it a try.
This is your shul - it’s a place for individuals and families and we are all members
of the family. When you think about what you want your shul to be I would be
willing to guess you want it to be a place for your family to worship together.
When there is a Bar or Bat Mitzvah your invitation is in the bulletin. If you see it
printed there you are invited and expected to come celebrate with your family our family.
Parents, when there is a service for your children try staying too. Whether you
stay in the Jr. Cong. service or come into the sanctuary with the other adults you
are sure to get something out of the experience.
Attending services is one excellent way for you to nourish your own soul but I
have to tell you CSI needs you to do more.
We must do more, and become more for us to sustain our current menu of
programs, as well as ensure that we continue to educate our youth, celebrate
them as they become b’nai mitzvah, and in due time, marry them and start the
whole process again with grandchildren. We must also assure that the shul, our
rabbi, and our community are here to support us in times of sickness and grief.
Only a synagogue community can sustain us from birth to death, in grief and in
joy.
145
We can only do this with your continued support. We need YOU! To be part of
US! Each one of you is needed to nourish the soul of CSI.
The story is told that one night the President of a synagogue was working late at
the Shul trying to figure out all the money problems the shul was having. Soon
after he took office a Genie appeared and said. Mister President as a reward for
being elected president of your shul I will grant you one wish. It can be anything.
Well the President thought for a moment and took out a map of the Middle East.
He said, Genie do you see this land of Israel, my wish would be that Israel would
have lasting peace. No more war, no more conflicts between Israel and the
world.
The Genie took a step back and said "I don't know, the Middle East has been at
war for 100's and 100's of years. Many Great Genies before me have tried to
grant peace in the Middle East and could not. To be honest, I am not that great of
a Genie. You will need to think of something else. Well the President thought for
a moment and looked down at all the files he was working on. Memberships
dues not being paid, annual appeals not being answered, many accounts not
being reconciled. Bills from Religious School, the House Committee, More
money going out than coming in. Ok Genie my wish then is to have all my
accounts in order so we can have a balanced budget.
The genie looked down at all the files, saw all the problems and pondered for a
moment then said "On second thought let me see that MIddle East Map again""
Seriously, our dues only cover a portion of what is required to run the CSI. It’s
truly impressive that we do so much with so little. We have a small membership,
little fundraising, a barebones staff and dues that are lower than most any
comparable congregation in the southeast. We need additional sustenance,
beyond that which is provided by a few generous members who voluntarily
contribute at enhanced dues levels. So how do we ensure our ability to grow and
146
evolve so that we may continue to nourish the soul – that is all of us? Well in
part through this - our annual High Holiday Appeal,
Every Shabbat we ask for God’s blessing on our community, on those who unite
to establish synagogues for prayer, those who enter them to pray, and those who
give funds for heat and light, wine for Kiddush and Havdalah, bread to the
wayfarer and charity to the poor. We recognize that our community is sustained
by those who give of themselves.
This is an inclusive prayer, for we all participate in sustaining our kehilla in one
way or another. In addition to your other important contributions, however, I
would love to count you among those have made the extra commitment to our
congregation by contributing to the 5768 campaign. The one thing this board is
committed to is NOT operating under a deficit. You all received the letter and I
hope we can count on you.
In addition to the 5768 Campaign we continue to build our Endowment Fund. It
is our hope that in time the interest generated from our Endowment Fund will be
enough to maintain our month-to-month expenses. But that will be years from
now.
Some may say, “give till it hurts, but instead I would recommend that you give
until it feels good, until you can say “I really feel like I did right by our shul this
year.”
There are so many different ways to become involved no matter who you are or
religious upbringing - CSI offers something to enhance your spiritual journey. I
encourage you to make this the year you decide to become more involved in all
CSI has to offer.
147
Build Me a Holy place, offers God, and I will dwell among you." Congregation
Sha’arey Israel is that holy place where our soul is committed to the spiritual
growth of each of the members of our family, our community and our world.
May we all be inscribed for a year of good health, happiness and peace.
Marty Koplin
Congregation Sha’arey Israel
Macon, GA
---------------------------
Ricki lee Gafter
President, Congregation Beth David (558)
Saratoga, CA
www.beth-david.org
Shabbat Shalom and Shana Tova
We are all here today because we feel a need to be part of a larger
Jewish community. Especially today on Kol Nidre/Yom Kippur.
Congregation Beth David’s mission statement is that our Synagogue be a
Bet T’fillah – a house of worship, a Bet Midrash – a house of study, and a
Bet Knesset – a house of assembly. This mission was wisely defined many
years ago and continues to be a guide.
During the past year the Board of Directors defined Long Term Strategic
goals, these goals are much in line with our mission statement. They are in
148
reach and outreach – reaching into our community to engage and reengage our congregants, reaching outside of our community to engage
those Jews in the greater south bay area that are unaffiliated. To create
Financial Stability for our community - ensuring that we not only have the
funds to pay for our current expenses but planning for our future expenses
as well. And Organizational Excellence - the board of directors and the
staff continue to define the processes necessary for us to function
effectively and efficiently while maintaining a menchlakite atmosphere in
our community. The board of directors, in conjunction with the staff will
continue to define specific targeted goals that can be achieved in a
timely fashion and will help ensure that our long term goals can be
achieved in conjunction with our mission statement.
In our Bet T’Fillah – our house of worship we have many opportunities to
worship together. We have traditional worship services for Shabbat and
the Chagim; Shir Shabbat services with the nusach of Shlomo Charlbach
where many dance in the isles and play drums. We have a learners
minyanim on the first Saturday morning of the month and for our B’nai
Mitzvah students almost weekly in youth congregation, which are not only
for our children but for everyone wishing to learn. For the very young, just
beginning their Jewish Journey there is Tot Shabbat and our new Pajama
Shabbat. These services are open and attended by many.
149
In our Bet Midrash - our house of study. There are opportunities for
everyone in this room to study and learn independently and together. Our
thriving and growing religious school offers opportunities for children at
every level of their pre b’nai mitzvah education. Our new Mishpacha
program provides opportunities for children and their parents to learn,
study, and grow as Jews and as a Jewish family. Our Hebrew High school
program provides formal and informal learning opportunities for our teens,
keeping them connected to their Jewish heritage. We at Beth David are
blessed with our amazing adult education programs. Speakers the likes of
Rabbi Harold Kushner, Poet Doren Robbins, and Scholar in Residence
Robert Harris are just a few of the people we have had speak here during
the past year. During this time we have also had classes and discussions
on Jewish Parenting, Talmud and Pirkey Avod. During the past year, our
book discussion group has thrived, as have our Conversations in Jewish
learning series, and our Brunch and Learn program. There have been
discussions and lectures covering diverse topics ranging from The Death
Penalty in the Jewish Tradition to Growing up Jewish in a Jewish-Arabic
Family. We have educational classes, lectures, and series that reach into
our community, providing thought provoking topics for all who are
interested. These opportunities also reach outside of our community
inviting anyone interested to participate.
150
In our Bet Knesset - our house of Assembly – We as a community gather
together to perform deeds of loving kindness for our Synagogue, our
community, for Israel, and for the world at large. We gather together to
eat, to pray, to celebrate, and to mourn. We gather in our men’s club,
our sisterhood, and Hazak. We gather to mentor one another
intergenerationally and peer to peer.
It would be unrealistic to expect that the connections you have today are
the same that you had when you first entered the front doors or the same
that you will have in 10 years. As we change, grow, and travel on our
individual Jewish journey what we are looking for in a Jewish community
changes as well.
When I joined Congregation Beth David I did so to have a Jewish
connection in the area and more importantly to ensure my Children’s
Jewish education. I have remained connected because this is where my
heart is, my friends are, I enjoy the activities and learning opportunities. It
is very important to me to be part of a Jewish community.
If you are no longer as active as you used to be, I ask you to consider
becoming more active. I urge those of you who come only for these High
151
Holidays, or to to say kaddish for a loved one, come more often. The
activities that are offered at Beth David continue to change just as each
of us as individuals are changing.
I hope as we begin this New Year you will consider beginning anew with
our community.
If your involvement has is no longer what it was because of changes in
your circumstances, I hope you will look around this room and find that
you are not alone in your circumstances; the support of friends can
always make your burden easier.
If you are no longer as active as you once were because of an error or
slight you may have experienced, I hope that you can forgive us and
again become active within these walls. Help us continue to grow and
improve.
If your connectedness to Beth David was through your children’s
connection and their involvement has changed, I hope you will try to find
a personal connection; and help us continue to create vibrant
programming that will reengage you.
152
For whatever the reason is that has lead you to no longer be as active as
you once were, or would like to be, I hope that as you begin this new year
you become more active in our Beth David community. Our Bet
Kenesset.
I wish all of you, my Beth David Community, friends and family an easy
fast, gamar chatima tova.
Shabbat Shalom
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stuart Myron
President
Beth Tzedec Congregation (684)
Calgary, Alberta
www.bethtzedec.ca
My fellow congregants, I am honoured as your President to address you on this Kol Nidre
evening. In doing so, my primary objective is to provide a new perspective on your
relationship with Beth Tzedec.
Obviously, we all recognize the synagogue reaches out to us with a variety of programs:
High Holiday services, shabbaton weekends, Passover seder, education forums, the film
festival, as well as meeting the needs for our individual spiritual care and life cycle
events.
I recognize though, that synagogue programming in itself will not accomplish my
primary objective, which is to provide a new perspective on your relationship with Beth
Tzedec. After all, programming is to be expected to fulfill our base line or minimum
expectations. Programming alone does not provide you with a new perspective, as it
does nothing to alter your expectations or your view of the relationship between you and
Beth Tzedec.
It is in this context that I wish to take a new approach. I ask each of you to consider the
following question. How do you view your affiliation with Beth Tzedec?
153
I hypothesize that for the vast majority the answer is in the context of a ‘member’. I
suggest we are members, but that the relationship between each of us and Beth Tzedec
also includes the concept of “stakeholders”.
This is what I mean.
In my address at the Annual General Meeting, reprinted in the last Shofar, I spoke to and
demonstrated the concept of a ‘reciprocal’ relationship that exists between each of us as
congregants and our Beth Tzedec. I suggested that our relationship is not a one-way
street, but a relationship of give and take. The term ‘stakeholder’ fits with this concept
of a ‘reciprocal’ relationship.
I further suggest our central motivation for affiliation with Beth Tzedec is that each of us
has an underlying need to celebrate our Judaism. This celebration takes many forms,
from attendance during the Yom Tov, Shabbat services, daily minyan or occasional
attendance at minyan to say ‘Kaddish’, as well as for various life cycle events.
Regardless of the way each of us chooses to celebrate our Judaism, we must accept
responsibility of our individual needs and recognize that we satisfy these needs
through our affiliation with Beth Tzedec.
It is in this context of the principle of ‘stakeholder’ that I now speak directly to our Kol
Nidre appeal.
Many of you have responded generously to our mail and telephone campaign. To each of
you we say ‘Kol Hakavod’. An acknowledgement and ‘thank you’ for your investment as
‘stakeholders’ in our Beth Tzedec has been placed at your assigned seats. Through your
efforts we have raised in excess of $71,000 from 47% percent of our stakeholder families.
I must apologize to those of you who during the last week have also responded
positively. Due time constraints for processing, we were unable to show our
appreciation this evening by placing a similar card at your assigned seat. We
thank you today.
For those of our congregants who have not as yet responded to this vital campaign, now
is your opportunity to do so. At your seats you will find a white pledge card such as this.
I request that you take this pledge card in hand and consider making an investment in our
Beth Tzedec, for the following reasons:

Remember ‘Stakeholder’ dues account for only 60% of our annual budget. This
percentage is in keeping with statistics reported by other North American
synagogues. The balance, 40%, must be raised through fundraising efforts.

To put the financial realities in another perspective, ‘stakeholder’ dues cover less
than 2/3rds of the expenses associated with synagogue operations.
154

Your Board does an excellent job at managing the finances of our synagogue.
Our total budget is less than the average budget of synagogues of comparable
size. These statistics are reported by United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism
on an apples to apples basis excluding school operations. In addition, our salary
budget is less than the average salary budget for synagogues of comparable size.
Again these statistics are provided by United Synagogues of Conservative
Judaism on a direct comparison basis and demonstrate that Beth Tzedec is fiscally
prudent and responsible.

We are confident that you will want to share in the pride of the 333 stakeholder
families who have already contributed to this campaign and help us reach our goal
of $90,000. Our Kol Nidre funds support the entire synagogue community
including youth programs, education and special events that enrich our experience
at Beth Tzedec.

Lastly, and most importantly, we seek to establish the concept and reality of
‘stakeholder’. There are costs to operate that must be shared. As a synagogue
community, we must work together to ensure the continuing existence of our
Beth Tzedec for the benefit of all of us, and for future generations as well.
Allow me the opportunity to illustrate this concept of ‘stakeholder’ through the following
story.
This story is about an alienated student of a well distinguished sage, who sought to
embarrass his master in the presence of his disciples. One day as the sage was speaking,
the embittered student stood up in the middle of the talk, interrupted the sage and said:
“You have told us often that you know our minds. I have a small bird in my hands. Tell
me then, is it alive or dead?
The sage knew the student well and his anger toward him. He quickly realized that if he
responded “dead”, the student would open his hands and the bird would fly. Should he
say “alive”, the student would quickly squeeze, and the bird would be dead.
The sage was silent for a moment and then he answered quietly. “The answer my son ---is in your hands.”
Please consider a generous investment in our Beth Tzedec by folding down the
appropriate tab on your pledge card. Ushers are now circulating among you for the
collection of your commitments. Meeting our goal and so much more is in your hands
now.
155
Mark Adelman
President
Temple of Aaron Synagogue (1200)
St Paul, MN
president@templeofaaron.org
Thank you, Rabbi.
L’shana tova. As Rabbi Konigsburg told you my name is Mark Adelman and
I have the privilege and honor of serving as your president. I am sure that
many of you are wondering how I came to be president – what qualifies me
to be president.
In addition to chairing the Religious School, Budget, and Executive
committees, I have been on the Board of Directors for almost 20 years and
an officer for the last 10. I was Treasurer for 4 years, a Vice President for 4
years, and Executive Vice President for the last 2 years.
When I came to my first Yom Kippur service after being elected to be an officer,
as I listen to then President Stuart Marofsky speak to the congregation, I
suddenly realized that one day I would be doing the same thing. I would be
standing up here talking to you. So for the next ten years I listened very carefully
to what the presidents had to say. I listened to Stuart, then Steve Baldinger, Gary
Swartz, Betty Sue Lipschultz, and for the last two years Phil Kibort.
And, I found one very consistent theme that emerged from all of those
messages: no one comes to High Holiday services to hear what the president
has to say.
You don’t come to hear us give a d’var torah; the rabbis are much better at that.
You don’t come to hear us tell you that, thanks to the diligent oversight of our lay
and professional leadership we are able to manage this one and a half million
dollar operation on a very tight budget; you already know that.
And, you certainly don’t come to hear us tell you we are only able to balance that
budget every year with your continued support of our annual Yom Kippur appeal;
you’ve heard that every year that I can remember.
So I’m not going to do that.
156
I’m not going to tell you about those envelopes with the pledge cards in
your Makzorim; you’ve seen them every year that you’ve been a member.
I’m not going to tell you to bend down the tab on the card indicating the
amount you want to pledge and put it in the envelope with your ticket and
pass it over to one of the ushers; that’s pretty obvious by now.
I’m not going to ask you to increase your pledge from last year by moving
one tab to the right.
Well, actually, I am going to ask you to do that.
But, I’m not going to say that other stuff. What I am going to do is; give you
some information, tell you a story, and make an announcement.
First, the information.
Exciting things are happening at the Temple of Aaron.
Rabbi Konigsburg is our new Senior Rabbi and if you haven’t had an
opportunity to meet him and his wife Michelle and talk with them one on
one, you’re missing something special. They are both warm and extremely
approachable and eager to meet everyone.
I don’t know how they learned Minnesota Nice living in Florida all those
years, but they did. Join us for the Lunch and Learn after Shabbat services
on October 21st to get a feel for what I’m talking about.
By now I’m sure you’ve all heard that we are beginning a year long Jubilee
Celebration of our 50 years in this beautiful building. Under the leadership
of Wendy Baldinger, Sally Lorberbaum, Gerry Frisch, and Rabbi Raskas we
have more then 20 events planned between now and Hanukkah 2007.
We started out two weeks ago at Selichot services when we honored
everyone who has served on the Board of Directors for the last 50 years
with a gift commemorating their service to the Temple. And, to those who
were unable to attend Selichot services, I want to personally thank you for
all you have done and invite to pick up your gift in the Temple office.
We have the St Johns Bible exhibit on display now in the Greenberg gallery, and thanks
to the generosity of the Skadron family we have the only female scribe in history coming
157
here the last weekend of this month to help each and every one of us complete a Torah
scroll. Make your reservation soon if you haven’t already.
And, the Jubilee will kick off with the Gala Opening Event chaired by Sue
and David Rosner, Florie and Bob Marvy and Barb and Steve Rutzick on
Sunday night December 17th.
There are plenty of events for everyone to participate in and to help plan.
Please contact me or any of the people I named to get involved. You don’t
want to miss out.
And, now, the story:
A preacher stands up before his congregation on Sunday morning and
says: “My sisters and brothers, I have bad news, good news, and bad
news.”
The congregation sighs and says “Preacher, give us the bad news.”
Preacher says: “ The bad news is that the church needs a new roof”
The congregation sighs more deeply and says, “Give us the good news.”
Preacher: “The good news, sisters and brothers, is that we have the money
for the roof.”
Much cheering and clapping. Then the congregation roars, “Give us the
bad news.”
“The bad news is that the money for the repairs is still in your pockets”
And that leads us to the announcement.
I am very pleased to announce that an anonymous donor has offered to
match any increases we make to our High Holiday pledges.
What does that mean?
Let’s go back to those pledge cards for a minute. If you increase the
amount of your gift, the donor will match the increase. If you gave 18
dollars last year and go up to say 72 dollars, the 54-dollar increase will be
matched. If you gave 108 dollars last year and go one tab to the right to the
180-dollar tab, the extra 72 dollars will be matched.
158
If you weren’t able to make a gift last year, your entire gift this year will be
matched.
If you don’t remember how much you pledged last year, you can make a
confidential call to Ken Agranoff in the office. He will be happy to let you
know how much you gave last year and take your pledge for this year.
And, if you have already sent in your pledge, thank you. And, feel free to
call Ken to increase it.
We are kicking off our Jubilee Celebration of 50 years in this beautiful
building and in 3 years this congregation will commemorate 100 years
serving the Jewish community of Minnesota.
We are able to mark these milestones because we have been blessed with
the generosity of our members.
With this anonymous match, your gift can have even more impact this year.
So please consider a move at least one tab to the right.
To paraphrase a popular commercial:
The cost of a new Prayer Book - $60
The cost of running our USY program - $53000
The cost of a new roof for the sanctuary - $400,000
The cost of belonging to a shul that nurtures your spirituality and offers
you a Jewish home: priceless
There are some things money can buy, for everything else there’s Temple
of Aaron
On behalf of my family and entire Board of Directors, I want to wish you all
a year of health, happiness, and shalom.
L’shana tova
159
Second Speech:
In the beginning, Jews created the synagogue. And the synagogue was
empty and void, and the spirit of Jewish survival moved on the face of the
land.
And Jews said: Let there be spiritual leadership, and there was
spiritual leadership.
And Jews saw the spiritual leadership, that it was good, and they
divided the synagogue into spiritual leaders and lay leaders.
And Jews called the spiritual leaders RABBIS and themselves
CONGREGATION. And there was evening and there was morning, one
millennium.
Now the Rabbis said: Let there be song in the midst of prayer and let
it well up from earth to heaven. And the Rabbis divided the service between
the beauty of the spoken word and the beauty of song, and it was so.
And Jews called the singers CANTORS and CHOIR. And there was
evening and there was morning, another millennium.
And the Rabbis said: Let the children be gathered in one place, and
let our colleagues teach them, and it was so.
And the Rabbis called these colleagues EDUCATORS, and the
gathering together of the children RELIGIOUS SCHOOL, and the Jews saw
that it was good. And there was evening and there was morning, another
century.
Finally, the lay people awoke and said: Let us make someone in our
own image, after our likeness, and let this person have dominion over the
160
office staff, over the maintenance staff, over membership, over the records,
over finances, over the budget, over the headaches, and over the kitchen
sink and the boiler!
So lay people created the EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS in their own
image, in the image of lay people they created it.
And the lay people saw that it was very good, and they rested from
their work.
And they rested from their work.
That, as you may already have guessed, is not the story of the
Genesis of Temple of Aaron. If it were, we would not be where we are
today. We would not be celebrating 50 years in this beautiful building and
we would not be 3 years away from celebrating 100 years as a
congregation. And, we didn’t get where we are by accident.
I’d like to take a minute with a little help from some of you to
demonstrate what I mean. Would all of the Past Presidents of the
synagogue please stand up and remain standing for a few minutes?
These are the people whose hard work and dedication has led us
through good times and bad, through challenges and triumphs. They were
always there when we needed them most.
Speaking from experience, I can tell you that each and everyone of
them would tell you that any success that they may have had came
because they were able to surround themselves with dedicated, caring
people who were willing to help share the load. And I have been fortunate
to do the same.
161
So while the Past Presidents remain standing, I would like all of the
current members of the Board of Directors to stand.
Thank you. These are the men and women who help make my job
easier and make me look good.
And, now, while all of these people remain standing, I want everyone
who has ever been on our Board of Director to stand.
These are the people who made all of those Past Presidents look
good.
Pretty impressive, huh. Clearly, “and they rested from their work”
does not apply here.
And, now, I would like everyone to take a good look around and see
who is standing, because I want you to thank them for everything they have
done for the synagogue. But, when I say thank them, I don’t mean for you
to stop them after services and shake their hands and say “thank you”,
although that would be a nice thing to do.
And, I don’t mean that you should increase your High Holiday pledge
in their honor, which would also be a nice thing to do.
No. I mean that you should thank them the way they want to be
thanked.
Follow them. Get involved. Join a committee.
Come to Shabbat or daily minyan more often, take an
Adult Ed class, get on the board of directors.
162
We need you involved, we need your viewpoints, we
need your support, we need your ideas, and we need
your volunteer time.
That’s how they want to be thanked.
Thank you all. Please feel free to be seated.
And, a final note on getting involved, if you want to get involved in
your synagogue, now is the perfect time. The Jubilee Co-chairs Wendy
Baldinger, Sally Lorberbaum and Gerry Frisch have several more events
planned between now and Hanukkah. And, with the leadership of Judy
Werthauser, Nancy Lane, and Sandy Kamin our Strategic Planning Steering
Committee has begun the Visioning process to set the course the Temple
will take as we look to the future.
They have already held a dozen parlor meetings with over one
hundred members, and now they are ready for the next step. On October
11th and November 1st the committee will be meeting with 80 Temple
members each night to define our values and goals and set action plans. If
you want to be one of the 80, contact Judy or Nancy or Sandy.
And, I want you to know that we are not waiting. We are listening.
One clear message that came out of several of the parlor meetings was a
need for programming, particularly programming for seniors, and I am very
pleased to announce that we have already formed a committee to begin a
Hazak chapter at Temple of Aaron. Hazak is United Synagogue’s
Organization for Mature Jews. Margie Schneider is chairing the committee
and the first organizing meeting will be held on Thursday November 8th.
Watch the Aaronian for details.
163
When Elaine and I were in Israel recently, we attended a concert at
the Moscovitz Auditorium in Efrat. I was pretty impressed with the
architecture and the acoustics, and I asked out tour guide if this
magnificent auditorium had been named after Chaim Moscovitz, the
famous Talmudic scholar. No, he said. It’s named after Sam Moscovitz, the
writer. I had never heard of him, so I asked, what did he write. The guide
replied, a check.
(Hold up Pledge Card)
Everyone knows why the President speaks to the congregation on
Yom Kippur.
You can fulfill the mitzvah of tzedakah in many ways at the Temple of
Aaron and I want to thank those of you who stepped forward this summer
to voluntarily increase your dues to provide resources for the synagogue
to thrive.
Those dues increases and your High Holiday gift will help to provide
summer camp scholarships, tuition subsidies, and the exciting
programming you’ve seen throughout our Jubilee Celebration.
You all know how these pledge cards work. Just bend the tab for the
amount you want to give, put it back into the envelope with one of your
tickets, and pass the envelope to the ushers.
Before you do though, I am once again very
pleased to announce that a generous donor has
164
offered to match any increases we make to our High
Holiday pledges.
What does that mean?
If you increase the amount of your gift, the
donor will match the increase.
If you gave 18 dollars last year and go up to say
72 dollars, the 54-dollar increase will be matched.
If you gave 108 dollars last year and go one tab
to the right to the 180-dollar tab, the extra 72 dollars
will be matched.
If you weren’t able to make a gift last year, your
entire gift this year will be matched.
If you don’t remember how much you gave last
year, you can make a confidential call to Ken
Agranoff in the office. He will be happy to tell you
how much you gave last year and take your pledge
for this year.
If you have already sent in your pledge, thank
you. And, feel free to call Ken to increase it.
165
We are completing our Jubilee Celebration of 50
years in this beautiful building and in 3 years this
Congregation will commemorate 100 years serving
the Jewish community of Minnesota.
We are able to mark these milestones because
we have been blessed with the volunteer time and
generosity of our members.
With this generous match, your gift can have
even more impact this year.
So please consider a move at least one tab to
the right.
As I said last year,
To paraphrase a popular commercial:
The cost of a new Prayer Book - $36
The cost of a Yahrzeit Plaque - $1000
The cost to endow the Moscovitz Auditorium -
$1,000,000
The cost of belonging to a shul that nurtures your
spirituality and offers you a Jewish home: priceless.
166
There are some things that money can buy,
for everything else there’s Temple of Aaron.
On behalf of my family and the entire Board of
Directors, May we all be inscribed for a year of
health, happiness, and shalom.
L’Shana Tova
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stuart Katz
Temple Beth Sholom (460)
Hamden, Connecticut
www.tbshamden.com
Two speeches 2006 & 2007
2006 Kol Nidrei Appeal
Good Yontef and G’Mar Hatima Tovah.
I am going to begin tonight with an old story some of you may have
heard:
It is about a Jewish man who is shipwrecked, all alone, on a desert
island. After many years, a ship passes the island and he is rescued. The
167
sailors that found him asked him about the two beautiful buildings he had
constructed on the island.
- “This one,” he says, “is my shul. I pray here every day.”
- “What about the other building?” they asked.
- “That one?” he replied, “That’s the shul I won’t set foot into.”
Now, let me read to you a very short article I read on the internet last
week:
Faced with dwindling membership, many synagogues have fallen
upon harder times, and have been forced to find new ways to
maintain and increase revenues. But one "shul" in the Detroit area
has hit upon an entirely new and innovative method of increasing
their revenue.
Congregation Ohav Tzeddakah will be offering a new type of
membership: they can become the synagogue you won't ever enter.
"We're very excited about our new level of membership," said Stanley
Buckman, President of the congregation. "Make us 'the shul you don't
go to' -- for just $250 a year you can proudly boast that you won't set
foot in our Shul."
Membership doesn't include a seat in the minyan or other services,
but does allow entrance into the kiddush club, provided you complain
loudly about the shul, its board and/or its Rabbi. Other benefits
include the right to throw someone out of his or her seat during the
High Holiday services, and to oppose pay raises for the rabbi and
staff.
168
Last week , before Rosh Hashanah, I asked one of the young
associates in my law firm what she was doing for the holiday. She told me
that her mother is trying to stage a coup at their shul. She doesn’t like the
Rabbi, she doesn’t like the cantor, and she has decided to boycott the high
holiday services and is trying to get others to do the same. She went on to
tell me that her mother had hired a rabbi to conduct a private service for her
family.
My initial reaction to this was to say, “Good for her…. So many
people complain about things at their synagogues and never do anything
about it. At least she is taking a stand.”
Quickly, though, I realized that my initial reaction was totally wrong.
There is just something wrong about taking your toys and going home.
Isolating yourself from your community is the easy way out, and it isn’t
really the Jewish way. That’s why we need ten people, for example, for a
minyan. Without 10 people present, a mourner cannot say Kaddish. What a
strong pronouncement of the importance of community. Indeed, from Pirke
Avot, the Ethics of Our Ancestors, we learn that the great philosopher Hillel
said:
“Do not separate yourself from the community.”
169
I have spoken and written before about the importance of
“community” as a concept. As you all know, Temple Beth Sholom has long
called itself “a caring community.” And it has always been a “nice” place to
go to shul. But is our community here thriving?
We have completed construction of a beautiful new building. But is
that enough to make people want to come here, to make them want to be part
of this community?
The answer to both questions is a resounding “yes.” We are thriving.
Temple Beth Sholom is the place to be. Let me tell you how I know…
Come here on a weekday morning at 7:15, or in the evening at 6:45.
You will find an incredibly close-knit group of people, who come to make
up our daily minyans. These are our “minyan-aires.” And we need more of
them. Strongly consider committing to attend a daily evening or morning
minyan on a regular basis. It is not only a mitzvah, to enable a mourner to
say Kaddish, but it is an easy way to connect yourself to this community.
Come here on a weekday morning at 9:00. You will see a thriving
preschool, filled to capacity, boasting an innovative curriculum, setting the
standard for Jewish nursery schools in the area.
170
Come here on a weekday afternoon. You will see a Hebrew school,
staffed with the best Judaic educators around, not only preparing our kids for
their bar and bat mitzvahs, but teaching our kids how to live Jewish lives.
Come here in the evening. One night, you might find our Sisterhood
or Men’s Club, sponsoring a program designed to build camaraderie among
its members, while simultaneously raising important funds for our shul. On
another night, you might stumble on the Rabbi’s Bible Class. On another
night, you might find yourself at a Board of Directors meeting. And on
another night, you might find yourself at an information session for one of
our upcoming congregational trips to Israel.
Come here on a Friday night in the summer. You will find dozens of
young families, enjoying a casual barbecue followed by a spirited early
family service, all part of our exciting Family Education Programming.
Come here on Shabbat. You will see what your fellow congregants
can do. Last year, the Rabbi originated a concept of “18-18-18.” The idea
was to get 18 new Torah readers, 18 new Haftorah chanters, and 18 new
people to lead services. You responded to the call, and the goal was
exceeded. Pick one Shabbat service per month – Friday night or Saturday –
and come see for yourself. I was speaking to a congregant on RH, who
asked me to please encourage more people to come to shul on Shabbat. He
171
and his family have become “regulars” at our Shabbat services over the past
year or so, and told me how much he and his family enjoy coming and how
much they miss it when they can’t be here.
Come here just about any time, and see evidence of our shul’s
commitment to social action. Through the simplicity of email, we have been
able to put out the call for school supplies, clothing and baby supplies, when
asked to help by our friends at the Covenant to Care program. Just look at
the food items collected in the lobby this evening. What better evidence of a
caring community.
Come here during the weekend of October 20th and here’s what you
will find. An oneg Shabbat after the regular Friday night service, honoring
the renovations committee that led our efforts over the past several years.
On Sunday, we will have a community wide program, with tours of the
building for our neighbors and supporters. There will be food, so please
RSVP to Eta Kaplan or to the office.
And on Saturday, October 21st, we will have a gala dinner-dance. By
now, you should have received an invitation in the mail. Please join us. I
can’t tell you how many people have told me that we need to have parties
like this. Well, we’re having one. We’ve got reason to celebrate. So many
of you gave of your time, your ideas, and of course your money to make this
172
project happen. And the results clearly speak for themselves. So, please
join us to celebrate.
Make no mistake, Temple Beth Sholom is the place to be. There is a
reason that our membership is growing. And the reason is all of you. The
members of this congregation; the members of this community.
If you haven’t been as involved lately as you were in the past, this is
the time to come back.
If you are having trouble finding the time to be more involved, this is
the time to make time.
If you haven’t heard anything that piques your interest, this is the time
to speak up. “If not now, when?”
Don’t just be a dues paying member. Become involved in one of the
areas I have mentioned tonight. Get involved – whether it is your time,
professional expertise, or willingness to learn. Help us keep our community
vibrant. And please join me, and others, in making a pledge to our annual
high holiday campaign.
Don’t let yourself be like the shipwrecked Jew, who built a shul he
didn’t want to go to. Don’t be like the congregation advertising on the
internet that encourages you to pay a fee to avoid coming to shul. And don’t
be like my young colleague’s mother, who thought that the only way to deal
173
with things she didn’t like in her own shul was to boycott its high holiday
services.
Instead, let me tell you about someone who you should try to be like.
I have been a member of this shul for about 15 years. My wife,
Marni, grew up in this congregation. Through the years, certain people
around here stand out. People who personify what this community is about
and who have worked tirelessly, year in and year out, for the benefit of our
shul. One of the nice things about being president is that I get to honor one
of these people with the President’s Award. Truth be told, several years ago,
I decided who I would give President’s Award to if I ever had the
opportunity.
So I stand here tonight, on this solemn night, and ask you to join with
me in recognizing one of the pillars of our community. Someone who led
this congregation, during a time of great transition. Someone who – long
before the Rabbi’s 18-18-18 initiative – read Torah, chanted countless
Haftarot, led innumerable daily minyans, and earned a reputation as one of
the great Shabbas Shacharit daveners of all times. He has taught adult
education classes for many years; he has blown shofar for many years on the
High Holidays; and he has helped many of us put up a Sukkah from time to
time (myself included). He has been the recipient of numerous honors in the
174
past, for his accomplishments, for his scholarship and for his leadership.
And from what I have seen and heard, he’s a pretty great husband, father and
dentist, too. For all of these reasons and more, I tonight present the Temple
Beth Sholom President’s Award to Henry Cohen.
Henry…. Tonight I thank you for all that you have done. For the
guidance you have provided to this entire community and for the example
you have set for me personally. On behalf of all of TBS, let me wish you
and your family Shana Tovah and G’Mar Tov.
Speech from 2007
2007 Kol Nidrei Appeal
Good Shabbos and Good Yontef.
Last year, I stood before you and gave many examples of how I knew that
our community here at Temple Beth Sholom was thriving. Tonight, I am pleased to
say that we are still thriving. We have had an exciting year, with innovative
programming, increased ritual participation and two outstanding congregational
trips to Israel with Rabbi Scolnic. Just check out our new and constantly improving
web site: www.tbshamden.com to see how vibrant our congregation truly is.
Of course, we could not sustain this level of activity without the income the
shul receives, above and beyond dues collections, through various fundraising
projects. So, I would be shirking my responsibility, then, if I did not stand before
you tonight and speak about our annual High Holiday Campaign. Our Campaign
Chair, Marc Seigel, recently sent each of us a compelling letter, asking us to please
make our annual gift.
I am reminded of the story of the Shul president who stood before his own
congregation and announced: “I have bad news, good news and bad news.”
175
The congregation sighs and says, “Please, tell us the bad news.”
The president says: “The bad news is that the shul needs a new roof.”
The congregation sighs more deeply and asks, “Please, give us the good
news.”
“The good news,” says the President, “is that we have the money for the
roof.”
There was much cheering and clapping. Then the congregation said, “Give
us the bad news.”
“The bad news is that the money for the repairs is still in your pockets.”
We don’t need a new roof – at least not at the moment – but we do have real
budget demands that cause us to rely on the High Holiday Campaign today as much
as ever. So, I simply ask you to give generously.
I am here tonight, also, to ask each of you to live generously. I often talk
about the importance of community; of building a community here at Temple Beth
Sholom. Among the most important things we can do as a community is to take
care of those in need.
In Judaism, we often speak about "Tikkun Olam" -- repairing the world.
In our community the expressions of tikkun olamare quite varied – collecting
food for the Hamden Food Bank, serving meals at a soup kitchen, partnering with a
social worker at the Department of Children & Families to provide household items
and holiday gifts to those in need, providing food for women living at New Haven
Home Recovery, participating in the Walk Against Hunger, and giving tzedakah.
I am constantly reminded of the importance of setting a good example for my
children. And I would like to believe that each of us does so, by performing acts of
tikkun olam, even in little everyday ways.
There is a story that I read to my son Zachary the other night, that I would
like to share with you tonight. It is called “Bagels from Benny.” Benny is a young
boy whose Grandpa owns a bakery. Benny likes to help in the bakery before school
each day. Every day, Benny hears customers thanking his Grandpa for making the
best bagels in town. And every day, Benny hears his Grandpa say, “Why thank
me?” Benny asks his Grandpa what he means, and Grandpa explains that because
bagels come from flour, which comes from wheat, which comes from the earth, it is
G-d who should be thanked for the bagels.
Taking this explanation to heart, Benny tries to come up with a way to
properly thank G-d for the bagels. The next day, Benny works very hard in the
bakery and asks Grandpa if he will pay him for his efforts each week, by giving him
176
a bag of fresh bagels. Unbeknownst to Grandpa, on Friday afternoon, Benny brings
the bagels to his synagogue and with great trepidation, places the bag in the ark,
saying: “King of the Universe, I brought you some bagels. I know you make them,
but you never get to taste one, because Grandpa sells every last one.” Benny put the
bag in the Ark & closed the doors, rushing off to school.
On Shabbat, Benny and Grandpa went to shul. Everyone prayed, except
Benny, who stared at the Ark, wondering if G-d ate the bagels. When the Ark was
opened and the Torah was taken out, Benny saw that indeed the bagels were gone.
So week after week, Benny worked for his bag of bagels and gave them to G-d.
Naturally, Grandpa became curious, so on the next Friday, he followed
Benny to the shul. He could not believe his eyes, when he saw Benny put the bagels
into the Ark. “What in the world are you doing???” Grandpa asked. A shocked
Benny spun around… “Grandpa,” he gasped, “I am thanking G-d. Every week I
give him bagels and he eats them.” Grandpa begins to explain to Benny the
impossibility of Benny’s belief, when the door to the shul creaks open. Grandpa and
Benny duck quietly into the shadows. In walks a man in a tattered coat. He took
the bag of bagels from the Ark. “O Lord, I was so hungry,” he sobbed. “For weeks
You fed me. From heaven you sent such beautiful bagels……I have good news for
both of us….. I have found work. Now I can feed myself and you can stop baking
bagels. You helped me Lord. Now I promise to help others.” Then the man left.
Benny cried with disappointment. “G-d didn’t eat my bagels; that poor man
took them.” “Benny,” Grandpa asked, “You wanted to thank G-d, didn’t you?
Well, you did.” “How?” Benny asked. “Didn’t you give bagels to a hungry man?”
“Didn’t he promise to help others?” “Then you made the world a little better.”
“I did?” Benny asked.
“You did,” Grandpa smiled, “And what better thanks could G-d have?”
What a beautiful lesson this story teaches about helping others. There are
many ways that we as individuals and as a congregation work to help others.
For many years, our Mitzvah Committee, chaired by Barbara Stein has
made its frequent visits to Arden House, the details of which I look forward to
reading about each month in the Bulletin.
Our Sisterhood, in addition to the work of the Mitzvah Committee, last year
donated 100’s of used books to a worthy cause.
Our Men’s Club annually sends out Yom Hashoah candles, helping us all to
remember the victims of the Holocaust.
Our children, too, serve as examples for us.
177
Our USY President, Shayna Bartell, is a clown. Really… a clown… with the
makeup, big red nose, funny hair. Shayna brings her clown shtick (along with some
of her clown friends) to entertain the sick and the elderly in our community.
Another one of our teenage congregants, Stephanie Davis, emailed me
recently to tell me about the “midnight runs” she was organizing over the summer.
These midnight runs involve making a bunch of sandwiches, and bringing them – at
midnight – to homeless shelters in New Haven. Stephanie hopes to involve others in
the shul in her midnight travels.
Shayna & Stephanie are only 2 of many of our shul’s teenagers that have
learned the lesson of tzedakah, and are making us all proud.
Our Hebrew School and K’Tanim students are taught lessons about
tzedakah from an early age and engage in numerous “mitzvah projects” as part of
their Jewish education.
And they learn that in Pirke Avot, Hillel said: If I am not for myself, who will
be? If I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?
Tonight, though we fast, the lobby is filled with food to deliver to the hungry,
due to your efforts. As they say, “We can do.”
At Temple Beth Sholom, we can be proud of our efforts to Repair the World.
We can take pride in the efforts of those who came before us. And we can feel
confident about what our children will do in the future, because we are ensuring
that our children have good role models and that they will learn from observing our
own actions, not just listening to our words.
There are few people who are better role models in the area of Tikkun Olam
than the person I have chosen as this year’s recipient of the Temple Beth Sholom
President’s Award. She is someone who lives and leads by example. Just ask her
children, Hans and Rini. This year’s recipient, of course, is Diane Kaplan.
Diane has served this congregation for many years, contributing greatly to
our educational programming and she truly is the “face” of Social Action at Temple
Beth Sholom.
In her annual report of the Temple’s Social Action committee, Diane said “I
hate hearing about people in desperate situations, people in places I could be
without the good fortune I’ve had in my life. On the other hand, I get to see what
caring people there are amongst us.”
Diane’s words really resonate. And in hearing her speak these words, her
sincerity and dedication are compelling.
178
For those of you who don’t know Diane personally, let me tell you a little bit
about her. Diane is an avid reader. This is good, because she has also been a
librarian for about 30 years, most of which she has spent at Yale in the Manuscripts
and Archives Department at Sterling Library.
Diane enjoys crossword puzzles and old movies. She is also a fan of the
Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, and Peter, Paul and Mary. Since Hans and Rini have
moved out, Diane and her husband, Steve, have started to enjoy Elder Hostel
educational trips.
Diane is also our resident grammar and vocabulary expert on the Board of
Directors. Perhaps unbeknownst to her, Diane started quite a controversy at a
Board meeting last year, when a board member suggested a project that would
“incentivize” people and Diane announced that “incentivize” is not a word. Since
then, board members have shown me evidence that, indeed, it might in fact be a
word, though no one has been brave enough to try to use it again.
I also asked Hans to share with me some thoughts about his mother, and
listen to what he wrote:
“Performing mitzvahs is something that’s been important to her and that
she’s passed on to Rini and me. Be it working at the soup kitchen, collecting food or
clothes for the less fortunate, or finding money on the street and putting it in the
tzedakah box, she’s always going that extra mile to help out others. She wouldn’t
have it any other way.”
Diane, would you please come up…… It is my great pleasure to present you
with this plaque….[Read the inscription]….
Diane….tonight, on the holiest and most solemn night of the year, I publicly
thank you for all you have done.. for your persistence, for your wisdom and for your
leadership. And thank you for incentivizing all of us to do good work. On behalf of
all of TBS, let me wish you and your family Shabbat Shalom, Shana Tova and
G’Mar Tov.
----------------------------------------
179
Bob Bachrach
Congregation Etz Chaim
Marietta, GA (725) http://www.etzchaim.net
In the 1970’s the late great Nathan Birnbaum, better known as
George Burns, who was the son of a chazen, was addressing a
gathering of rabbis. The convention took place in the Catskills
during July and the theme of the get-together revolved around the
up coming High Holidays. Cigar in hand the master of
monologues addressed the clergy on the fine art of preparing and
delivering there up coming sermons. The key to a memorable
sermon Burns preached is a captivating beginning, along with an
ending that builds to a climax and leaves your congregation on the
edge of their seats. The coo de grais however, to true success of a
sermon is that these two elements, the beginning and the end, must
be as close together as possible. Now if this premise appliers to
rabbis it surly applies to synagogue presidents so I will do my best
to follow the advice of the man whose most famous movie role
was playing G-d.
Last year was one of the most exciting and successful in our 30+
year history. We made a dramatic change in our religious school
by converting to a two day a week program that was met with
enthusiastic acceptance and success. This coupled with a elective
one day a week alternative learning experience called kaleidoscope
where youngsters participated in everything from Jewish cooking
to yoga to gardening made for a most successful culmination of 31
very successful years for our beloved Linda Weinroth. The
transition to a new but familiar face is going smoothly. I am sure
you all join me in wishing our own Nancy Siefert Gorod nothing
but success as she assumes the leadership role for our educational
programs.
Last fall the Tritt Family foundation sponsored our annual Scholar
in Residence weekend. This year the event had a new twist. The
180
theme was Health and Wellness and it was designed to have
continuing programs through out the year. In partnership with
JF&CS and Wellstar a sampling of the health related programs
included stress management, the sandwich generation, teen driving
and substance abuse. Up coming programs include Men’s health
and a membership wide offering of flu shots.
Congregation Etz Chaim and Jewish Family & Career Services are
beginning their 3rd year as partners serving the East Cobb
community. This partnership, originally made possible thru a
grant from the Marcus Foundation, allows for a mutually beneficial
leveraging of resources to serve our community both synagogue
members and non-members, Jews and Gentiles. The participation
and success of this alliance has been excellent. 17 workshops were
held during the past year and over 300 members participated. In
addition, over 200 congregants volunteered for JF&CS projects as
well as local community projects brought to the attention of our
Social Action Committee as a result of this partnership. In an
effort to further improve the convenience factor we have now
established a JF&CS office on site here at Etz Chaim. Even
thought their East Cobb office is just down the street on Johnson
Ferry Road they now also have a presence, with regularly
scheduled hours, in our building in an office just across from the
Levine Chapel.
Four years ago last month the Kerbel’s joined our Etz Chaim
family. We have come to know and respect Sam, who is now at
the joint studies program between JTS and Columbia University,
Judah who became a Bar Mitzvah with us and who reads Torah
and leads minyan on a regular basis and Micha who will celebrate
his Bar Mitzvah this December. Melissa has become a highly
respected leader in our community as she undertakes a variety of
projects while playing Mom and wife to 3 sons and a very involved
and committed rabbi. I am sure you would agree that Rabbi
181
Kerbel has truly found his nitch in the heart of Etz Chaim. We are
fortunate to have him and it is with great pleasure that I announce
to you the unanimous decision of your Board of Trustees to offer,
and Rabbi Kerbel has accepted, a 5-year contract extension. At a
minimum Rabbi Paul, Melissa and the boys will be with us thru
2013.
I want to spend the next few minutes and briefly report to you on
the financial condition of Etz Chaim. For ease let’s look at our
finances in two broad categories. First our operating resources, our
unrestricted cash if you will, and second our long term investments
and or endowments, our restricted monies.
As you know our financials are reported in detail to the BOT
following the end of each month. They are not a secret and are
available to the membership upon request and in the interest of full
disclosure we will be posting them quarterly on a password
protected section of our website. We do however request that they
be kept within our synagogue family.
So how are we doing financially? Perhaps the easiest way to
answer this question is to say that, despite never-ending increases
in our operating and overhead expenses, this year and for the first
time in almost a decade, we did not have an increase in our
membership dues or any other tuition fee. In fact, unlike many of
the synagogues around town, or for that matter around the nation,
we have been fortunate to continue to be operating within a
balanced budget and have done so for the last 3 years. The
synagogue has an operating line of credit that is available if
necessary to support our operating costs. The last time we used it
was in 2004. The creditability of our budgeting and expense
control, improved fund raising, better collections and greater
overall financial support of Etz Chaim by you, our members, have
made this possible. Our proven financial responsibility to our bank
allowed them to increase this available line by $100,000 last year.
182
Now for some hard numbers. Our unrestricted cash balance, the
amount of money in our checking account, averaged $132K a
month in calendar year 2004 $151K in 05 $221K in 06 and thus far
in 07, with the biggest 4 months still in front of us, $181K. At this
same time last year it was $101K. For the first two months of the
new fiscal year our general revenue is ahead of budget by $72K.
Last year your BOT took a monumental step and demonstrated a
high level fiscal responsibility by creating a restricted contingency
fund to address unanticipated emergencies that could not be
handled within our normal operating resources. Last December we
felt we had enough cash to do this so the fund was seeded with
$15,000. The new Board put a $10K line item in this year’s
budget to add to the fund. Last month we moved this year’s $10K
allociation to the restricted fund which now contains $25K plus
earnings. On a grand scale this is not a substantial sum of money
but my friends, it represents a significant start. In the past if we
had an unanticipated need we created a special assessment. This is
not a promise, but hopefully if we continue to build this
contingency, this saving account for a rainy day if you will, special
assessments of this nature will no longer be necessary. We also
move amounts of cash, on a regular basis, into income producing
accounts to insure fair rates of return on our unrestricted resources.
Last year we generated almost $10K in additional income by
putting our operating money to work. Again, not a huge sum of
money but found money none the less.
Now let’s look at our restricted funds our long term investments
which include the aforementioned contingency account. A few
months ago a member came to us wanting to make a 5 figure
donation. We didn’t have a need in our operating budget and
didn’t want to just spend the money on something because it was
given to us. The family decided to place the money in a newly
established Capital Campaign account. It should be no secret to
any of you that Project Vision, which was launched 16 months
ago, is conducting comprehensive research and feasibly studies on
183
what would be our best course of action to improve our facility.
We now have seed money in a restricted Capital Campaign
account ready once the campaign is launched.
A year ago this evening I announced that the Tinter Family
Foundation would establish the Etz Chaim Staff Appreciation
Endowment. That fund is now fully endowed with monies
exceeding $50K.
Last April one our family’s, indeed our entire community, suffered
a tragic loss with the untimely death of Phillip Silverman. Phillip,
a young man with superior intellect and wit who loved music,
loved life and loved his fellowman will be memorialized here at
Etz Chaim through an endowment created by his family and
further supported by his friends. The Phillip Michael Silverman
Memorial Endowment, once fully funded, will support an on-going
operation of tutoring for those students in our religious school who
need assistance in mastering the curriculum requirements.
Additionally, this Endowment Fund will in part, support the
purchase of media related to Jewish humor for the congregation's
Kazer-Lipson Library. It will also fund, in part, social service
activities and programs offered by the congregation, including
those directed to helping the indigent.
A year ago this evening, when I stood before you, our restricted
funds, our endowments, monies set aside for a designated purpose
totaled just under $45k. On August 31st of this year they totaled
$155.8. Again, not a lot of money for a 30+ year old synagogue to
have invested but a significant step in the right direction. I report
this information to you to make you aware of where we are and
hopefully the direction in which we are going. I want to publicly
thank Gary Prager our CFO and Allan Glazerman for all they have
done in professionally managing our finances. There have been
perceptions in the past that the lay leadership of the shul may not
have been prudent in the way money was spent, some have even
184
said we lacked good fiscal responsibility. Past perceptions are just
that, past perceptions. We must learn from the past, live in the
present and plan for the future. The present facts are that your
leadership is fiscally responsible, we have been and we will
continue to be. Please do not look at others to continue the
positive financial trend I have outlined but look in the mirror, look
introspectively at what you can do to insure our finances stay on a
positive course. Differentiate monies donated to sustain our daily
operations from those earmarked for their long term earning
potential and think about Etz Chaim as a lasting investment in your
future, the future of your family and the future of our Jewish
community.
I want to personally thank each and every one of you, our
congregants for your dedication to Etz Chaim. Whether you are
new members or founding members, whether you attend daily,
weekly or once a year. Etz Chaim’s diverse nature and welcoming
spirit has made us what we are today. Over the past couple of
years your lay and professional leadership has undertaken a series
of comprehensive processes to ensure a successful and sustainable
future for Etz Chaim. These efforts included a formal strategic
planning process, a congregation wide visioning process and most
recently a professionally commissioned feasibility study designed
as a fund-raising market analysis. What we have learned from
these efforts is that you, our congregants love our Etz Chaim
home. Yes, Etz Chaim is our home: spiritually, educationally,
socially and emotionally. It is a place that touches all aspects of
our life. Etz Chaim truly does create Meaningful Jewish
Experiences for everyone. What we have also learned from these
efforts is that you wish for a building that matches the spiritual and
social nature of its members and that is attractive and inviting
inside and out. One we can all be proud of. Your leadership is
energized by the results of the most recent feasibility study, which
outlined the specific steps that must be taken over the next year or
so and that will help prepare us to launch a fundraising effort to
185
renovate our building. A high level plan was presented to the
Board last Sunday night by our consultants, Coxe Curry and it will
be studied to determine how best to proceed. This is an exciting
time in the shul’s history and your leadership, both lay and
professional, promises to continue to keep you apprised of plans as
the process continues.
Being the president of Congregation Etz Chaim has been a truly
wonderful experience. Never, not for a single moment, have I
looked back and doubted my decision to accept this responsibility.
As I listen to my fellow Presidents of temples, synagogues and
shuls around town and across the country, and believe me I hear
them every day thru the miracles of cyber space, I realize how
fortunate I am, how blessed we all are to have a family that has
sustained 30+ years and continues to grow, continues to prosper
and who has evolved to where we are today. This year we
completed our second leadership seminar in 4 years designed to
prepare members for leadership positions. 60+ members have
completed this six month, highly defined guidance experience.
Our by-laws provide for a nominating committee to select and
present to the Congregation a slate of officers and Board members.
I fully endorse the process but also feel strongly that we must
provide our institution with a plan, a succession plan that identifies
strong, capable, well trained and enthusiastic individuals willing to
accept these leadership responsibilities. With that thought in mind
I have recommended to this year’s nominating committee that
Irwin Berman be slated as our next President. I have worked
closely with Irwin over the past 5 years, first as CFO and most
recently as Executive VP. His proven leadership skills, coupled
with his commitment to the growth and stability of our shul make
him a natural to assume this role. Others are being nominated for
roles that will broaden their experiences so they too will move into
a succession line and be ready to lead this great institution in the
years to come. It is my commitment to work with Irwin to insure a
186
smooth transition and help him leave things better then he found
them.
I believe strongly in Etz Chaim and have tried my best to execute
the responsibilities of my position with appropriate thought,
judgment and compassion. In the spirit of our age old tradition, if,
in my passion for excellence I have hurt, offended or wronged any
of you in any way I am truly sorry and humbly ask for your
forgiveness.
I would like to express my heartfelt thanx to the Officers and
Board of Trustees of our great institution for their commitment,
support and guidance. To the various Boards, Committees
auxiliaries and clubs; both chairpersons and participants alike; your
dedication, hard work and perseverance are the mechanisms that
make our shul function so effectively. My thanx to our
administrative and maintenance staff for all you do to keep our
active facility functioning in an organized and efficient manner.
To our professional leaders and faculties for your individual and
collective efforts in providing top notch programs, curriculums and
institutional guidance. And to Rabbis Lewis and Kerbel for your
inspiration, your wisdom, your humor and your friendship; my
thanx to you on behalf our entire congregation.
To my family: Ann, Marc and Eric who are observing the holidays
in Washington and Ohio, my thanx for your encouragement, very
candid advise, unquestioned support and love. For 41 years Reba
has been my wife and best friend. It is difficult to find words that
can express my feelings but as Ralph Cramden would say, Reba
you’re the greatest.
One thing that has not changed since last year and come January it
is the responsibility I will miss most. The best part, the very best
part of being your president is sitting on this bema each Shabbat, at
187
the conclusion of services, with a basket of candy on my lap, and
gazing into the eyes of our future.
May you all have an easy fast and may this New Year bring to you and your family
good health, much happiness, success in your ventures and Peace here at home,
Peace in Israel and Peace throughout the world. L’Shana Tova & Chag Sama’ach
---------------------------------------------------------------------------Sheila B. Grossman
President - Sulam 30
Temple Beth Am (650 Families)
Margate, FL
www.beth-am.org
President’s State of the Shul Address
Yom Kippur, September 20, 2007
First, since it is Yom Kippur, and there’s no way to get to everyone individually, I’d like to
start by saying that if I’ve said or done anything, either consciously or unconsciously, to
offend you, I’m sorry, and I ask for your forgiveness. And I really hope, as part of my
Yom Kippur apology, that you’ll indulge me by allowing me to include anything I might
say in the next 15 minutes or so. I just want to make sure I’m covered.
At the end of the second day of Rosh Hashanah I stood before the ark with my not-quitethree-year-old granddaughter while the Hazzan chanted the Aleynu. As I held her hand,
she looked up at me and asked, “Bubbie, why are you the President?” My first response
was, “Mollie, I ask myself that same question every day!” But then I remembered the
speeches.
We all sat here that day and listened to the stories of four people who have found their
home here at Temple Beth Am. As I thought about each of them afterwards, I realized
they all had a common thread. Each person had found a small group in our shul with
which they could connect. We heard about Happy Minyan and morning minyan. We
heard about a shul Israel trip and our Youth Department’s strong attachment to Camp
Ramah. It became clear to me that what we have here is a community of many small
groups of people who work together to create the bigger picture that we call Temple
Beth Am. All of you have my admiration and appreciation, for your dedication, your hard
work, and your enjoyment of Judaism at Temple Beth Am. You are the reason our
188
synagogue stays on track year after year. I am honored to be the President of such a
diverse group of friendly, caring people.
Everyone looks to the synagogue for something, but that “something” may differ from
one person to the next. Regardless of our perspectives, we don't really know what the
synagogue really is because we haven't experienced the whole. So let me tell you about
one day in the life of Temple Beth Am, so you can experience many of the ways the
synagogue provides for us every day.
Let’s take a look at a sample weekday, which will have a mix of things we do on different
days of the week and at different times of the year. Morning minyan is at 7:20. The
maintenance crew has their daily instructions from our Executive Director, so the gate by
the Chapel and the Chapel doors are already unlocked. It’s a day that the Torah is read,
and the Cantor has ensured that the Torah has been rolled to that week’s parsha. One
of the minyan regulars leads the service, but they all make an effort to say hello to
unfamiliar faces and make them feel welcome. At the same time, the Early Childhood
Center has opened its doors in the school building, and some yawning little boys and
girls are being dropped off for early arrival as their parents head off to work.
After minyan, most people rush off to work, but some congregants make their way into
the main building. One checks his mailbox in the office to get a list he had requested of
people who are new to our shul so he can call them and welcome them. Another checks
over the memorial boards in the sanctuary to confirm that the correct plaques are lit for
that month. Another person goes into the kitchen to start working on food preparation
for that day’s bingo or for Shabbat lunch that week. And more moms and dads arrive to
drop off their children for the 2, 3, and 4-year-old programs in the ECC. Some of those
moms will stay for a class that may be organized by our ECC or by our adult education
program. After class they may wander into the Evening Sisterhood’s Book Fair to pick
up an early Chanukah gift for that special little boy or girl.
The main office opens at 9:00 am, and the activity increases. The phones start ringing.
The professional staff has their weekly meeting in the library. Our elected officers who
deal with budgeting and finance arrive to review and sign checks and discuss with the
Executive Director and the Rabbi the impact of our membership renewals for the new
year and whether our High Holy Day Appeal Campaign is meeting expectations to help
us balance our budget within the next two or three years. A member of the Ways and
Means Committee meets with the bank representative who has been working with us on
the SunTrust “My Cause” fundraiser to get an update of how many of our congregants
189
have opened checking accounts with her so that Temple Beth Am can earn $100 for
each account.
Various meetings take place during the morning. They are all dependent on the hard
work of our volunteers – planning for this year’s adult education program, a Day
Sisterhood board meeting, a Talmud study class with the Rabbi, and a discussion of how
best to upgrade the Temple’s website. The committee that planned and supervised this
beautiful renovation of our sanctuary meets with the project manager for a hands-on
inspection of the latest finishing touches to our bima. And don’t forget activities that will
happen later in the year – organizing a Chanukah package to be mailed to all of our
college students from the College Outreach program, taking inventory of our supplies for
the Purim Carnival, packing and storing the hamantashen orders that were baked the
night before by the Youth Department, and practicing with the 4-year-olds for their ECC
graduation on the bima.
Email and phone calls go back and forth all day between the members of the
professional staff and various lay leaders. The agenda has to be finalized for the Board
meeting. There’s a scheduling conflict on the calendar that we should resolve before it
becomes a problem. The list of High Holy Day honors, a huge project that takes months
to put together, needs to be reviewed by several people. The committee for the Rabbi’s
25th Anniversary “A Night At The Oscars” has to critique and respond to advertising
flyers and forms for the event next Feb. 2nd so we can distribute the ad forms quickly
and mail out the save-the-date postcards. There is a huge committee working with great
enthusiasm to accomplish all the planning for this event, and there is already a lot of
excitement in the air. What an evening that’s going to be!
And it’s only noon.
The Rabbi sends a note to the Membership Committee listing the newest information
about congregants who are in the hospital, and then he leaves to make hospital visits.
Cars are lining up in front of the ECC as some moms pick up their little ones. Children
playing on the playground are herded inside to go home or to eat lunch if they stay
longer. USYers and Kadimaniks begin to arrive after school to hang out, do their
homework, and work on programming plans for their next meeting. Volunteers and the
Executive Director meet with building inspectors to asses the condition of the roof and
determine which sections will last through hurricane season and which parts need repair.
The maintenance crew takes down the tables and chairs from morning bingo and sets
up the social hall for that night’s Evening Sisterhood meeting.
190
It is now late afternoon. Religious School students fill the classrooms in the school
building, and a small group of parents are talking about topics for the School Board
meeting later that evening. Bar and Bat Mitzvah students come and go from the
Cantor’s office in the north lobby throughout the afternoon and early evening. Any
questions that arise during the six months of Bar Mitzvah preparation will be referred to
the Chairman of the Bar and Bat Mitzvah Committee. Adult and teen Torah readers
proof their assigned Shabbat readings in person or on the phone. The Rabbi and Cantor
meet with that week’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah family for photos in the sanctuary.
As the last of the ECC children are picked up, congregants arrive for evening minyan in
the Chapel. Following minyan, one of our Gabbais meets with a sofer, or scribe, who
will examine certain of our Torahs for wear and tear damage and determine what repairs
are needed to make them kosher again. Several groups gather to prepare for various
meetings on the premises that evening. The Executive Committee meets to plan for the
Temple Board meeting the following week. The Mitzvah Day Committee will put
together our Dec. 25th community social action program, and the co-chairmen are
meeting tonight to be prepared for their first volunteer organizational meeting on Oct. 10.
The Night At The Oscars Dinner Dance Committee will meet to get an update from each
sub-committee on their assignments – decorations, invitations, entertainment, the ad
journal (which includes ads and our membership directory), the program for the evening,
and many other details that will draw many volunteers to work together on this, our
biggest event of the coming year.
At the same time, the volunteers of the choir are gathering to rehearse with the Cantor.
Religious School students head home for dinner, and USYers or Kadimaniks arrive for
their meeting. A few Youth Commission volunteers stay to help out with that program.
The parking lot is filling up again as adult education classes begin, drawing out a varied
and different group of our congregants. The Budget Committee is meeting to begin
assessing our year-end figures and figure out how best to allocate our funds to reduce
our deficit.
The hour is getting late. The maintenance staff is already working in the school building
again to clean it and turn it around from Religious School back to Nursery School for the
next morning. The different meetings adjourn one by one, to reconvene in the parking
lot for the meeting-after-the-meeting, and then the volunteers finally head for home.
Our day may be done, but we can’t forget all the activity that occurs here on the
weekends - food preparation for the Temple Shabbat lunch, saying hello to friends at
Happy Minyan, the Boker Tov study group followed by Shabbat morning services and
191
our year-old Shabbat lunch program, catered private events and Temple celebrations,
and a Reservations R Us dinner at a kosher restaurant on Saturday night. On Sunday
many congregants stop by the Temple office. There is also a Day Men’s Club breakfast,
a family program in one of the Religious School classes, Bar and Bat Mitzvah lessons,
choir rehearsal, USY, Kadima, or Chalutzim activities in the Youth Center, and more
committee meetings in every corner of the facility. A phone tree message is sent out to
publicize the second year of our $100 raffle. Email goes out to the small group of
volunteers who will set up and staff the next poker night. And the Golf Tournament
committee discusses a mailing for our second golf tournament next spring.
If we look back at our day and our weekend, we have addressed the areas of finance
and fundraising, membership, ritual, education, men’s club and sisterhood,
administration, clergy and lay leadership, youth and family activities, and social action.
And still, there is so much more to us than this.
As I wrote these words earlier this week, I worried about covering all the different
committees and projects in our Temple community. I didn’t want anyone to feel that I
had left out their favorite committee, or that I was neglecting some important aspect of
Temple life. I finally realized that my job tonight is not to list every single thing we do
here. My goal is to give you a taste of Temple Beth Am, a sampling of this and that, a
look at the varied selection of activities we offer, from ritual to social action, from
fundraising to membership, from educating our kids to educating ourselves. I hope I
have enticed you enough to make you think about where you can find your place in our
family. We have the kind of day I just described every day because you give of your
time, your energy, and your resources to make it happen. Our family here is only as
strong as you make it.
We all have choices to make. Each of you here today has made a choice to be a part of
Temple Beth Am, and I think you made a wise choice. Don’t be shy, and don’t think
committees are not for you. Everyone needs their Cheers, the place where everyone
knows your name. If you haven’t already done so, find your oasis at Temple Beth Am,
and you too will look forward to saying hello to all these members of your extended
family every time you walk through our doors.
May you have an easy fast. G’mar Chatima Tovah!
----------------------------------------------------------
192
Arlene Lewis
President
Congregation Beth Tikvah (200)
Marlton, NJ 08053
brooks1313@aol.com
Shabbat Shalom and L’Shana Tova.
My husband, Michael, and I joined Congregation Beth Tikvah in 1980---well
before we had our children, Adam and Sara. We, like many others, did not grow
up in this area and didn’t have roots in South Jersey. We were looking for a
place to belong. We were looking for a place that was welcoming. We were
looking for a place in which we could build intimate relationships--- a place where
people were supportive of each other, a place where our spiritual needs could be
met, and a place where we could connect with Jewish tradition. We were looking
for a place that we could call home, a community!
I believe that Congregation Beth Tikvah is such a place! A community is different
from a congregation. A congregation is a place where people come together--where they merely congregate. A community is a network of support and
relationships. The more you become involved, the more relationships you build,
and the more connected you feel.
As I wrote in my first Hatikvah article in June, I have always felt that I receive
much more from my volunteering at CBT than I have given. We have found
close friendships and a rich, meaningful spiritual life. Here we have found a set
of values, similar to our own, a feeling of connection, and a belief that
193
transmitting Judaism to the next generation is important. At CBT, we believe that
taking care of each other is essential and that Tikkun Olam projects can make
this world a better place. Our family of families celebrates happy times
together—baby namings, B’nai Mitzvahs, weddings, golden anniversaries to
name a few. And we’re also here to help and support each other in times of
sorrow or tragedy.
Our forefathers recognized the importance of belonging to community. In Pirkei
Avot, sayings of our Fathers, it says, “Do not separate yourself from the
community.”
The Talmud states when “Any person works for the community, it is as if that
person is studying Torah.” When we volunteer and become involved at CBT, we
are bringing Torah to life. By becoming involved in a Jewish community, we aid
in the continuation of Judaism for future generations.
As president of Congregation Beth Tikvah, I feel that it is my responsibility to
make every congregant feel welcomed, as I do, and engage every member of
this congregation so that Jewish traditions and ideals continue. How does one
do this when our members’ backgrounds are so diverse? We come from
Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox synagogues. Some of us are quite learned,
others have no formal Hebrew school training. Some of us were born Jewish,
some of us have chosen to be Jewish, and some of us have chosen to support
194
our Jewish partners in an interfaith family. Some of us have traditional families;
some of us have blended families; and some of us have non-traditional families.
Our members are singles, singles with children, young couples without children,
families with young children, families with teens, empty nesters, and seniors.
And the list goes on…
The challenge is to build community amid this diversity. The challenge is to help
our members connect with Jewish tradition in whatever way is most meaningful
for each. The challenge is to meet the needs of every congregant. In order to
meet these challenges, I needed some assistance and I believe that I have found
it in a book by Ron Wolfson called The Spirituality of Welcoming. The book
suggests ways to examine who we are and what we are doing--- and then guides
synagogue leadership through exercises to help make improvements.
Our current by-laws (only a year or so old), call for both an Executive Board and
a Board of Trustees. The Executive Board which meets monthly is responsible
for the day-to-day mechanics of the synagogue. The Board of Trustees which
meets four or more times per year is now responsible for evaluation of our
strengths and weaknesses (an exercise that was completed on August 6th) and
strategic, long-term planning.
At future Board of Trustees meetings, we will be discussing our vision and goals
for CBT. Based on the strengths and weaknesses we have discovered, we will
dialogue about the challenges we face in creating a kehillah kedosha---a sacred
195
community--- in which relationships are of utmost importance, where worship is
engaging, where both young and old are learning, where repair of the world is a
given, where healing is offered, and where both personal and synagogue
transformation are embraced.
Creating a welcoming community, according to Wolfson, is a long term, ongoing,
and collaborative process among our lay leadership, our staff, and our Rabbi. I
welcome your input and your ideas. Board of Trustees meetings are open to all
and are listed on Hatikvah’s calendar and on our website. Please join us at our
next meeting on Monday, November 5th at 8 PM.
The Kol Nidre address has customarily been an occasion to share some of
CBT’s accomplishments.
One huge undertaking was the purchase of our new
data base program. Thanks to Mike Lewis and Allyson Bernstein for the
research necessary for choosing the program that would best meet CBT’s needs.
Thanks to Bev Fusfield and our secretary, Melissa Young, for entering much of
the data we have received to date. If you have not yet completed the data entry
form, please take one tonight or tomorrow. The forms will be in the lobby.
Thanks to your generous donations to the R & R campaign, we have replaced
doors and lights to improve energy efficiency. We have replaced much of the
siding on the building, re-furbished our bathrooms, re-carpeted a large portion of
the building (including the sanctuary, social hall, vestibule, foyer, and offices),
greatly improving the overall appearance of our building. We have also replaced
196
the oldest portion of our roof and made repairs to newer sections. We are in the
process of replacing heating and A/C units. Thanks go to Mike Lewis, Daniel
Wolf, Jim Van Horn and the R & R committee.
On June 10th, the Scott Rand Award for Volunteerism at CBT was deservedly
presented to Adele Albert and Barry Yelowitz who served jointly for many years
to make our Bingo game ever more successful. Bingo netted over $32,000
during this past year.
The Awards Dinner was a successful fundraiser, as well, netting approximately
$7000 thanks to Bobbi LeVine and her committee.
On July 15th we ran a successful blood drive, thanks to Mike Lewis, Mark
Waltzer, Howard Korsen, Hal Goldberg, and Bob Heiman. On July 29 th we ran
our annual yard sale thanks to Stu and Adele Albert and Mike Lewis, and many
other volunteers.
During last year’s Kol Nidre address, our past President, Allyson Bernstein,
spoke to you about the importance of programming. Although small in size, our
congregation provided incredible programming. Some of these included: the new
Hol-i-Tot program (targeting our youngest congregants) created by Ellen
Krivchenia, Elissa Geron, and Ann Nimberg; excellent programs for our youth
(including Kadima and USY programs) headed by Elise Dinetz, Alan Geron,
Gretchen Kotkin, and Tammy Kornfeld; our book club, Sunday morning
197
discussions with the Rabbi, J-Pop (or Jewish Perspective on Politics) programs
run by Debra Kramer and the Adult Ed committee; our Get Acquainted/ReAcquainted Night run by Robin Blickman and the Membership committee;
numerous Sisterhood and Men’s Club events under the direction of Bernie
Goldberg and Ken Siegel; and successful programming for our mature adults
headed by Elaine and Fred Emmer. And of course, we should be proud, that
despite our small size, we offered weekly Friday night and Saturday morning
services, as well as, Monday, Thursday, and Sunday minyans. Thank you to all
of you who helped to make these services available.
Looking toward the future, we have created two new positions. Hal Goldberg has
agreed to become our Endowment Chair and Janet Davidson has agreed to
become our Social Action/Tikkun Olam Chair. I look forward to working with
both of them.
We have created two new fundraisers. The first is our new Chai Fund (meant to
support those in our midst who cannot afford full dues and fees due to hardships
this year). The second is our Get Acquainted Casino Night on January 19 th.
Thanks to Ann Wolf and Barry Dinetz and the fundraising committee. The
Casino Night is being co-sponsored by Membership. Thank you to Bobbi
LeVine, Robin Blickman and the membership committee.
We have also revitalized our Yahrzeit and Tree of Life Plaque programs. Thanks
to Gladys Ollar and Esther Zweig.
198
All of the programs and activities that we offer would not be possible without our
wonderful volunteers. Our volunteers are the single most important resource that
we have at CBT. We rely on our volunteers and committees in order to function.
We thank each and every one of our volunteers for their dedication and
willingness to give of their time and their talents. As we have done in the past, all
of the High Holy Day honors are given to members who give of themselves, in
order to express our appreciation for all that they do for CBT. I wish we had
more honors since it’s impossible to recognize every person who contributes to
our synagogue. Even if you did not get an honor this year, please know that
everything you do is greatly appreciated. Once again, we have decided to ask for
your Kol Nidre pledge in the privacy of your home. If you have already made
your donation, I thank you, on behalf of Congregation Beth Tikvah, from the
bottom of my heart. If you have as yet to do so, please make sure you make this
pledge a priority following the holiday. And--- if you are in a position to do so,
please be sure that you consider the new Chai Fund. When you give to support
your synagogue, you are making a statement that “this is our sacred community.”
Being generous does wondrous things for the soul; giving is far more rewarding
than receiving.
With your Kol Nidre pledge letter you received a second pledge card asking you
to donate your time, talent, and commitment to specific activities. We hope that
you will return this card, as well, so that we can make CBT an even better
community. We ask you to become more involved. Sign up for one more activity
199
than you did last year. When we work together, we create a thriving community
in which each of us is challenged, valued, and connected. If you need another
card, they will be available as you leave this evening. Please mail them to the
CBT office to my attention.
May Congregation Beth Tikvah go from strength to strength in the New Year as
we renew our individual and our collective commitment to our future.
Before I leave the Bimah, a few thank yous regarding High Holy Day services are
in order. Thank you to Rabbi Gans and Cantor Lebovic for leading us in prayer.
Thank you to Bob Heiman and Mark Waltzer, the Ritual Committee, Sylvia
Jacobs and Jeff Gans (who created our yizkor booklet), our movers, our ushers,
our greeters at the door, our parent teachers, junior congregation and youth
program leaders, Sisterhood members, and Men’s Club members for all of your
hard work in putting together services on the move.
G’mar Chatimah Tova
200
Leslie Fraidstern
Congregation B'nai Israel
Northampton, MA.
www.cbinorthampton.org
Kol Nidre Appeal
Congregation B'nai Israel is an egalitarian Conservative Synagogue with just
under 400 member units. Twenty-five years ago there were about 125 member
units. Located in Western Ma. (Northampton) it was founded 103 years ago.
There are five colleges in a ten mile radius: Smith, Amherst, Mount Holyoke,
Hampshire, and the University of Massachusetts. Just last month we celebrated
the purchase of our very first brand new Torah.
I'll start this Kol Nidre Appeal by asking all of you who heard my speech last
year to raise your hands. Hmmm. That's most unfortunate. That speech went
over so well that I was hoping to give it again. Oh well, fortunately I've written a
back-up but, this year please don't pay such close attention in case I ever have to
give a third one.
This has been a great year for CBI. We continue to grow, we continue to build
for the future. To give just a few examples: our Religious School had 92 students
this past year and we had a combined twenty-five Bar and Bat Mitzvahs. And
this year we have twenty-one scheduled. I happened to mention this to Norm
Winston who has been a member of CBI for seventy years. He told me that when
he had his bar mitzvah in 1940, he had no cohorts. His was the only one at CBI
during the entire year. Who could possibly have imagined at that time that CBI
would thrive as it has, right here in the Valley?
There are other things to point to with pride and gratitude. In just this last year
we have had donated to us a first quality baby grand piano, our entrance has
been totally remodeled and provides us with an aesthetically uplifting way into
our synagogue. Finally, and most importantly, over 285 families donated funds so
that we could purchase a new Torah and repair those needing repair. The 350
people who attending the Siyyum Ceremony in which we completed and
dedicated the new Torah will always carry that emotionally exhilirating
experience with them.
I assure you there is more on the agenda for improvements but I am not going
to talk tonight about constuction or purchases, no matter how necessary they
201
may be. Kol Nidre is not the time to talk about a new rug for the sanctuary or
renovating bathrooms. Tonight is a time to talk about people, their individual
actions and kindness. Here are four stories about members of CBI:
. The first involves a man in his eightees who resides in an assisted living
facility. Members of our synagogue visit him and he is appreciative and cordial.
He'll always offer a cold drink or a glass of tea. One day, the visitor said "sure"
and soon had a cold can of Diet Coke in front of him. After flipping the metal tab
to open the can and then pouring the Coke, the visitor, out of habit, removed the
little flip tab and put it in his pocket. The old man noticed and asked what that
was? The guest explained that a child in the synagogue was collecting those
tabs for a charity. The charity received the tabs by the millions and then sold
them as scrap metal to raise money. The next time the visitor came to the
apartment, the old man gave him a small plasic bag with eight flip tabs in it.
. The second story involves two older women. They did not know each other.
Each had been offered a ride to the Crown kosher meat market in West Hartford.
They eagerly accepted the ride from the third member of the Congregation. In the
midst of shopping for chicken and brisket they developed a friendship. Now,
instead of being alone in the evening you are very likely to find them together at a
movie or a play.
. The third story involves a new member of the synagogue whose parent died
recently. She wanted to sit shiva and say Kaddish but thought she'd have trouble
getting a minyan. The CBI office sent out an e-mail and a minyan appeared every
night though almost all of the people there did not known the new member. The
new member was so touched that she, her eleven year old daughter and her six
year old son now attend almost every shiva they learn about.
. The final story is one I observed only two weeks ago when I saw someone
folding tallises and putting them on the rack while taking other tallises off the
rack and putting them in a basket. I asked what she was doing? "I'm washing
them", she said. She explained that for many years the Raymond family of CBI
owned Twin Cleaners and cleaned all the tallises for the High Holidays as a
donation. When they sold their business about ten or twelve years ago there was
no one to do that. So, she began taken the tallises home and washing them.
Some in a washing machine and the silk ones by hand. The most time
consuming part, she explained, was tying the fringes so that they didn't get
damaged in the washing. Afterwards, she unties the fringes and then hangs the
wet tallises on a line so that they dry in the air. After that she brings them back to
CBI, folds them and puts them back on the rack. There probably aren't six people
in the synagogue who know that she does this and she prefers it that way. Heck,
there probably aren't six people who ever even thought about whether the tallises
are cleaned. I sure never did.
There you have it, four stories. They symbolize what we do for others, how
friendships grow, how we respond to crisis, and how when we see a need we
can jump in and help anonymously. They are all acts of Gemilut Chasidim, acts
of loving kindness. It is loving kindness that builds a community. At CBI, I firmly
believe we have a community. We help one another.
202
I can't resist using a device I used in last year's speech. Will everyone
please stand and remain standing if you have done something for CBI or a
member of CBI in the past year. It may have been as simple as opening the
curtain on the ark, or making a donation to the Torah fund, or making a shiva call,
or visiting a member in the hospital or a nursing home, or helping to build the CBI
succah, or cooking a meal for someone who needed it, or bringing in a shopping
bag filled with groceries for our Survival Center food drive, or, dare I say, buying
scrip.
You've gotten up because you've done something for CBI or a member of
CBI. You've helped build a community. Thank you. You can sit down now.
Now, I'll add something we didn't do last year. Please close your eyes and
think of someone, outside your immediate family, who you know would come to
your assistance if you needed help. Please go up to that person after services
and tell them that they are the person you thought of when you closed your eyes.
Beyond being a house of worship, beyond being a house of study, beyond
being a house of gathering, we are a community. We help each other and we are
open to receiving help when we are in need. In a funny way, we are frequently
more willing to help others than to ask for help when we are in pain. It's part of
the New England "reserve" I guess. Well, fortunately I'm from New York City. We
consider that "reserve" highly overrated. We're more into "pushy". Consider this a
plea from me to you that you reach out when you're in need of help. We'll do our
very best to respond. Someone in CBI will cook that meal, offer you space in
their home for that out-of-town guest that you just don't have room for, pick up
your child because you've had an emergency or help you make a minyan so that
you can say Kaddish.
I've thought alot about this during Rosh Hashanah when I sang out with all of
you:
Be-Rosh Ha-shanah yika-teivun
U-v'Yom T'zom Kippur yei-ha teimun.
On Rosh Hashanah it is written
and on Yom Kippur it is sealed.
The difficulty is that we don't know what is written and what is sealed. Whose
life will be calm and whose will be turbulent. We don't know what joys we will
experience and what tragedies will befall us. But this we do know, we need
people to share those joys with and people to soothe and support us during the
hard times. Even when they can't change sad circumstances, they can still stand
by us. They can help fight the feelings of being alone. This I also know, the
people of CBI would come to my assistance if I or my family needed help. CBI
will come to your assistance as well. We are a community, we help each other.
It's as simple as that.
203
Now I'm going to reach out to all of you for help. Not for an individual or a
family but for CBI itself. I need you to give CBI the gift of time so that we have the
volunteers to do all that needs to be done and the gift of money so that we have
the resources to remain vibrant. I ask for your help not because we are in
desperate straits, but because we are strong and and want to remain that way.
People often express surprise to me that I seem to enjoy fundraising. And I do.
Beyond the schmoozing, which I certainly love, is the recognition that fundraising
demonstrates a caring for others and for the future. If we cared only about
ourselves, we'd turn a deaf ear. We'd say, "that's their problem, let them worry
about it." But I know that's not us. We raised money for a new Torah as much for
people we'll never meet personally as for ourselves. Previous generations built
this synagogue thinking of a future Jewish community. We have kept faith
with that tradition. That's why we fund raise.
In the guide books for being an effective fundraiser, or schnorer if you
prefer, I'm told that a Synagogue President has to tell a joke to create the right
atmosphere for giving. Since I want you to give generously of both your time and
your money, I'll tell two jokes.
The first involves a President who goes before the congregation
and proclaims that he has bad news, good news and bad news. The bad news is
that the roof is leaking, the toilets are leaking and the boiler is leaking They must
be replaced he says to them. The good news, he tells them, is that we have the
money to repair all the leaks. The bad news is that the money is in your pockets.
The other joke, involves a tourist and a museum guide in the brand new,
spectacular Moskowitz Art Museum of Israel. After being shown all its fabulous
features by the guide, the tourist expresses total admiration and then says, "What
I admire the most is that you named this magnificent museum after that great
talmudic scholar Moses Moskowitz." The guide responds that the museum was
actually named after Sammy Moskowitz, the writer. "Sammy Moskowitz, I never
heard of him. What did he write?" The check.
Now, unlike Sammy's situation, if you write a check, we are not going to
name the lights after you because you helped keep them on. And if you write a
check we are not going to name a mop after you because you helped pay the
custodian's salary. And if you write a check, we are not going to name a
classroom after you because your donation helps support our Religious School.
Even though nothing is going to be named after you, donate generously.
Because if you write a check you'll know you've helped support the CBI
community. I'm not too worried about those persons who donate
$3,600 or $2,500 or $1,800 or a thousand dollars. They are consistently
supportive and will be again this year. One has already sent in $2,000. I'm
worried about those of you who could donate $500 or $360 or $180 or $100 or
$50 or even $18 and don't. It is you who will make this Kol Nidre Appeal a
204
success or a failure. Be supportive. Like that other synagogue president, I can't
get into your pocket. That you have to do. But follow Sammy's example, be a
writer. This is no time to develop writer's block. You know very well that
synagogue dues can never cover all our costs. You have to do your part beyond
dues. Give to the Kol Nidre Appeal. Please.
To organize for your contributions of time and money, we have envelopes
in the hallway for each CBI member . In the envelope you'll find an updated
CBI membership list and a card to fill out and return on which you can tell us how
you might be interested in volunteering and how much you are donating in
money. A return envelope is enclosed as well. All donors of time will be
contacted by our volunteer coordinator, Marcy Eisenberg. All donors of money
will get a thank you letter from me.
Those of you who are here tonight and are not members of CBI, first of all,
we are delighted you are here. If any of you would like to become members and
part of the CBI community, just let us know. Those of you who are visitors from
out of town, we are delighted you are here as well. If any of you nonmembers you'd like to make a donation, it too would be deeply appreciated.
Donation forms are available on the shelf.
In last year's closing, I talked a lot about my grandfather, Menachim Mendel.
Indeed, I talked a lot about all of our grandfathers and grandmothers. It seemed
to have struck a responsive chord. We know that we owe them a debt of
monumental proportions. They did not have it easy. They worked in the garment
industry or they were peddlars or they were shopkeepers or some were even
cattlemen. Some cooked and cleaned and kept a Jewish household.
They sweated, they struggled, they survived. They crossed oceans to arrive
here. They faced pogroms and worse. They struggled for the sake of their
children. They struggled for us. Through it all, they kept faith, built Jewish
institutions, and had pride in their Judaism. We can do no less. I know we will do
no less. After all, we come from good stock, we come from them. And, we are a
community.
To all of you I say "Yasher Koach" for all you've done in the past for CBI, for
all you do now, and for all you'll do in the future. May you be inscribed in the
Book of Life and may 5768 be a year in which you flourish. Shana Tovah.
205
Kol Nidre – 2007 – September 14
Karin Karel, C0-President, Congregation Beth Shalom, Willmington, Delaware
bethshalomwilmington.org
Shabbat Shalom and welcome.
Do you remember what it was like last year at this time? Do you remember that - like
Nachshon - we were ready to take the plunge and begin the renovation of this building? Much
of the pre-construction planning was complete, but the pace and intensity of activity picked up
soon after the High Holy Days. As needs were identified – and sometimes even before that –
you – our congregants and staff - stepped forward to offer your time and your talent.
Throughout this project, you have worked to make the dream a reality. The result is that we
are back in the sanctuary for these High Holy Days – on time and on budget. For anyone
familiar with the perils of construction schedules and the ever-rising cost for material and labor,
that is just amazing.
Today, we are two-thirds of the way through the renovation. Demolition is complete. The
structural steel is up and the concrete has been poured. The new heating system and many of
the new, energy efficient windows are in. The chapel has been transformed into an open,
welcoming space with beautiful views of the park across the street. Because it is still an active
construction space, many of you have probably not yet seen the new main entrance to the
building off of the parking lot. Trust me, it gives a whole new feeling to the entrance. No longer
is it confusing and forbidding. Instead it has a people-friendly covered walkway that will lead
through a wall of windows into a bright and open lobby.
Although we had not originally intended to make significant renovations to the auditorium or
sanctuary, some upgrades were required to bring this part of the building up to snuff with
respect to the heating, cooling, and electrical systems and for better fire protection. If you have
ever done any renovation on an old building, you know what happens when you start opening
up walls and ceilings. Some things were just easier and cheaper to replace than to repair.
Hence, the new ceiling in the auditorium. We tried to avoid the trap of “while we’re at it we
might as well fix the (blank)”, but there were some things that were worth doing now, such as
providing better lighting in the sanctuary, repainting the walls, and installing a new stairway to
the bima that is graceful and easier to climb. The theatre-style pew seats were also replaced
with chairs that can be re-arranged to other seating plans.
Some of the most exciting changes are yet to come. Work is progressing rapidly on the new
kosher kitchen (hang in there Kitchen Klub!) and the two-story lobby that you can see through
the temporary windows in the hallway. There will also be a new gift shop, and offices on this
level. And new classrooms, a music room, a multi-media room, a bride’s room, and a new
library on the upper level. A completely renovated lower level will have space to meet a variety
of programming needs, including a dairy kitchen, new bathrooms and greatly increased
storage.
206
The renovation of this building will continue throughout the fall, and is scheduled to be
complete by the end of December. Come back often to see the changes from one Shabbat to
the next.
For all of the changes you see, and many that you do not, we owe a huge debt of gratitude to
the Building Committee. They are leading us into a new chapter of our history.
Our Capital Campaign is also two-thirds of the way to its goal of $9,000,000. Since the kickoff, the Campaign Committee and a host of volunteers have contacted every member of this
congregation. Over 300 families have pledged so far. We urge you to be a strong contributor
and help make this campaign a resounding success. If you have not yet pledged, please do
so. If you have already pledged, please consider increasing your pledge.
Since I cannot ask you to do what I am not willing to do myself, I’d like to share with you
tonight, that Marty and I have decided to double our initial pledge. It is not that we are rich…in
fact, far from it. But I believe that this project will have a long-lasting impact on this
congregation and each of us as congregants. It is our gift to our children and our
grandchildren, and is an expression of pride in who we are.
Think for a moment what we could do if every pledge were doubled. With your generous
donations, we could create an even more substantial endowment, one that could do more than
just provide for the upkeep of this building. We could step up to our responsibilities and
provide health insurance for our full-time employees, more training for our Hebrew School
teachers and staff, transportation to morning minyan, and scholarships to Camp Ramah or
other Jewish camps. I hope that you will “stand and be counted” when you are asked to
contribute to the Capital Campaign.
Although the renovation and Capital Campaign have occupied much of our attention for the
past year, we have still managed to have an active congregational life this year. Our Hebrew
School and adult education programs have continued to grow under Rosh Roland’s creative
leadership and our holiday and fund-raising events have been well-attended. Just imagine
what it will be like when the Kitchen Klub is back in business!
It is exciting to look ahead to next year. We plan to celebrate the completion of the renovation
project with a “Grand re-opening and re-dedication ceremony” on March 8th. So mark your
calendars.
We also plan to hire a new Cantor next spring, and a search is already underway. Our
application has been submitted to the Cantors’ Assembly and we expect to start hearing from
candidates within a few months. The Rabbi, Roland, Osnat David and many volunteers have
been doing a great job filling in for Hazzan Horwitz since his departure, but your enthusiastic
response to Cantor Spiro and her beautiful melodies has made it clear that this is a hole we
need to fill.
(pause)
207
And now we come to the point in the service where we ask you to “stand and be counted” in a
different way. Please take out your pledge cards for our annual appeal and think for a moment
about your commitment to this synagogue and everything it represents. Your contributions to
our annual appeal help keep us in good financial health. The Capital Campaign may renovate
the building, but the Annual Appeal helps us fill the building with light, heat and life itself.
The annual appeal also helps support the Hebrew School and through your children, the very
future of this Jewish community. By donating generously, you make it possible to attract and
retain talented people like Rosh Roland and the teaching staff that he recruits every year.
Roland has done amazing things in his two years with us. Help us make it attractive for him to
stay. Stand and be counted for the Hebrew School.
Your contributions tonight will help us find and hire a Cantor with the talent and spirit to fill our
halls and our hearts with song and who can help all of us – children and adults – learn the
musical traditions of our heritage. Having a beautiful new office and a music room will certainly
be a plus in recruiting a new Cantor, but we also need to be able to offer an attractive salary
and benefits package. Stand and be counted for the joy of music.
Your contributions will help re-stock the renovated kitchen with everything from pots and pans
to sugar and spice. Show the Kitchen Klub just how much you have missed their delicious
creations. Stand and be counted for the kugels and cakes.
Your contributions will help defray the costs of moving our staff and school operations back
into our renovated building. Hopefully, we won’t be doing any moving of any kind for at least
another forty years!! Let these hard-working people know that you appreciate the sacrifices
and extraordinary efforts they have made on our behalf this year.
For all of these reasons, stand and be counted. This year, turn over not just one but two - tabs on your pledge card. Help us reach this year’s Annual Appeal goal
of $75,000. Please make your commitment to Beth Shalom and then pass your
pledge card to the ushers.
(pause)
Karolin started her speech with a story from the Midrash. I’d like to end mine
with a quote from the Unetanah Tokef:
God opens the Book of Remembrance,
And the record speaks for itself;
For each of us has signed it with deeds.
This year, make one of your deeds a generous contribution to Congregation Beth
Shalom.
208
May you be inscribed in the Book of Life and may you and your family enjoy a
sweet new year.
Shabbat Shalom.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Kol Nidre 2007
Michael S. Levine, President
The West Hartford Emanuel Synagogue, 160 Mohegan Dr., West Hartford, Ct 06117
(660)
www.emanuelsynagogue.org.
I have been thinking about my new grandson, Max Daniel Nathan, in the three days since
his Bris. When I look at him and his 2 year old brother and 6 ½ year old sister, I wonder
what their world will be like in 50 years. Will one of them be here addressing the
congregation; or will one of your grandchildren be up here addressing them?
Raise your hand if you have children under 7? Grandchildren? Great grandchildren? Do
you ever wonder what their world will be like?
It’s impossible to predict the future -- the unexpected always happens. In my career in
Pediatrics things have appeared that we never dreamed about in medical school. For
example our ability to diagnose is much better because of Computed Tomography (CT’s)
209
and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Major illnesses have disappeared thru the use
of vaccines. Has anyone here seen someone with mumps or measles in the last 20 years?
I haven’t.
New bad things pop up too: Lyme Disease and AIDS to name two.
Some things appear suddenly and others develop more slowly and give us warning if
we’re wise enough to listen. .
Today there are many things happening in our world that could have serious
consequences. We are getting warnings. Are we listening? As an example I want to
focus on energy use and production for a few minutes.
Energy use is increasing rapidly and so is its price. The environmental and human costs
to produce it are great. Nuclear waste from power reactors accumulates. Mine accidents,
as we had in August, kill miners. Land and water are damaged in getting oil, gas, and
coal out of the ground and moving it to where it will be used.
Does Judaism have anything to say about energy generation and use?
Should Judaism have anything to say about energy generation and use?
As I see it, the fundamental issues are: how did these resources get here; how and by
whom are they being used; what are the costs; what will that mean for our children and
grandchildren; must we do anything about it.
210
First let’s look at where the energy resources came from and to whom they belong.
Psalm 24 tells it short and sweet. “The earth is the Lord’s and all that it holds, the world
and its inhabitants.” Psalm 104 goes into poetic detail, speaking to God:
You make springs gush forth in torrents;
They make their way between the hills,
Giving drink to all the wild beasts;
The wild asses slake their thirst.
The birds of the sky dwell beside them
And sing among the foliage.
You water the mountains from Your lofts;
The earth is sated from the fruit of Your work.
You make the grass grow for the cattle,
And herbage for man’s labor
That he may get food out of the earth
Then there is the lovely tale of two Jewish men who had a dispute over
who owned a piece of real estate. Each claimed ownership and bolstered his claim with
apparent proof. To resolve their differences, they agreed to put the case before the rabbi.
The rabbi listened but could come to no decision because both seemed to be right.
Finally he said, “Since I cannot decide to whom this land belongs, lets us ask the Land.”
He put his ear to the ground and, after a moment, straightened up. “Gentlemen, the land
says it belongs to neither of you, but that you belong to it.”
211
Whatever your concept of God, I think most of us will agree that He (or
She) created the earth, we did not. It was here for us when we arrived. Judaism says it
should be here when we leave. We use it while we’re here, but its not ours.
Next, let’s explore how our religion says we should use the energy resources we found.
There is a principle of taschit “You shall not waste”. There are many examples. In
Deuteronomy 20, God tells us if you are laying siege to a city you cannot destroy trees
that yield food.
Threshing floors and tanneries must be far enough from town that the
dust, chaff and odors and pollution will be carried away without bothering the
townspeople. Maimonides extended this to forbid diverting water from trees, tearing
clothes and demolishing a building. Applying this to energy, we must not waste and we
must not unnecessarily disrupt or destroy.
How does our society measure up? Judge for yourself: The US, with 4.5 % of the
world’s population, uses 24% of the worlds annual energy use. Europe and Japan use ½
as much energy, compared to Gross Domestic Product, as we do. It sounds like a lot of
wasted energy to me.
What about our children? Again Judaism is not shy. A Talmudic sage poses the question
“Who is the wise person?” His response, “The person who foresees the future
consequences of his/her actions.” More directly is the story in the Talmud of the old man
who was planting a carob tree, which would not bear fruit until many years after his
212
death. Honi the circle-maker asked him why he was planting it, when he would not live
to harvest its fruit. He explained, “Just as I had been able to partake of the fruits of trees
which others had planted before I was born, I am planting for my descendants”.
So, since we are using the earth on loan, Judaism says we should be using its resources
carefully and without destroying the earth. We need to be mindful of what we leave for
our descendants.
But do we really have to actively promote these ends? Rabbi Small, in his sermon the
first day of Rosh Hashanah, said that the divine is everywhere, but is covered. Doing
mitzvot uncovers the divine which otherwise remains hidden. We therefore have an
important active role to play;
thinking and understanding is not enough. We call this basic Jewish obligation, to do
what we can to improve our world – tikklun olam. One of our four Emanuel
communities, for that reason, is the Community of Social Justice, to actively pursue
tikkun olam. Protest against waste and injustice begins early in the Torah as God, over
and over, recognizes, rebukes, and punishes evil and evil doers. In addition our
obligation is to keep trying, even if we cannot see immediate results. Why? There’s a
midrash that helps explain.
A man stood at the entrance of Sodom crying out against the injustice and evil in
that city. Someone passed by and said to him “For years you have been urging the people
to repent, and yet no one has changed. Why do you continue?” He responded: “When I
213
first came, I protested because I hoped to change the people of Sodom. Now I continue
to cry out, because if I don’t, they will have changed me.”
The need to not just talk but to do explains why Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heshel said he
was “praying with his feet” when he walked with Dr.Martin Luther King against
segregation.
Thus a Jew is obligated to use energy carefully, to obtain it in a way that disturbs God’s
earth as little as possible, and which preserves energy and the earth itself for our children.
When these standards are not met, we are obligated to do something about it.
Right now the cleanest and safest energy sources are the natural renewables: sun, wind
and running water. Conservation, which can be implemented quickly and cheaply, could
reverse the upward spiral of more demand which encourages more production by
damaging and wasteful methods.
Why am I speaking about energy use? That’s probably not what you expect your
synagogue president to run on about. I want to assert that the synagogue is the place
where, for generations, Jews have learned about these principles. Here we learn the
ethical way to act for the benefit of ourselves, our children and grandchildren, for the
earth and for God. Emanuel needs to be an active agent in this honorable line, to improve
and protect our world. By doing this, we connect, we become part of something more
than ourselves. Energy use can be an example, a paradigm, of how we can act as a sacred
214
community. As a result we have begun to evaluate energy use at The Emanuel. Tom
Mostranarde and his committee found out that we have more than 1300 light fixtures
here. We have converted enough old fashioned incandescent bulbs so that now 79% of
them have energy saving fluorescent bulbs and tubes. We have installed sensors in some
rooms that turn off the lights when no one is in the room and turn it on when someone
enters. We need to install a gas water heater, which would allow us to shut down the
main oil-fired boilers in the summer, saving the standby energy we waste now. As part
of a remodeling program we need to install insulating windows in many places. As part
of a sanctuary remodeling, we will use energy saving fixtures and also rethink heating
and cooling.
Yet for Emanuel to be able to teach us the Jewish perspective, to be a Community of
tikkun olam, to plant the carob tree for our grandchildren, we need to have a healthy
synagogue. We want to be able to light the world (pun intended). You can generate the
power.
How can you help us become energy efficient? If you have not yet contributed the the
Kol Nidre/Annual Giving Opportunity, do so at once. If you gave last year, or even if
you have already given this year, would you increase your gift by 50%? We need your
help to pick more “low hanging fruit”. Would one of you make a special gift to enable us
to change more lights to the energy efficient kind, or to put motion sensors in more places
to turn out unused lights, or fund the purchase of renewable energy for the synagogue
through CT Clean Energy Options, instead of the conventional energy source? You can
215
purchase clean energy for your home too. Carolyn and I do. We get all of our electricity
from CL&P, but it is generated by wind and water power. We pay a small surcharge, just
over 1 cent per kilowatt hour, which last month cost us about $8.50. You can get the
details by taking a flyer off the table in the lobby. Perhaps someone here will fund and
lead a program to teach all of us how to save energy in our homes.
In the next year or two, we will need to start a capital and endowment campaign.
Remember then that your generous gift will, among other things, allow us to make the
more expensive structural changes to save energy I mentioned before. When we do that
we will be preventing environmental degradation. It will be practicing preventive
tikkun olam. Along with making changes in our building we should let people know
what we’re doing to encourage them to do similar things at home and in their workplace.
This will leverage our efforts. Finally we’ll save money for Emanuel in the form of
reduced electric and fuel oil use. It will be an energy endowment, which will yield
dividends for the world and for the synagogue forever.
Then we can face our children and grandchildren and proudly say to them we didn’t use
up all the energy resources, that we helped restore the ozone layer, thereby reducing the
risk of them getting skin cancers, that we helped reverse global warming, and that we
didn’t continue to run up huge balance of payment deficits to import oil. To paraphrase
Rabbi Tarfon, “We may not have finished the job, but we did not refrain from starting it.”
Remember, for this congregation to be able to fulfill its role as a font of Jewish values
and to be a spark to Jewish action, we must have your financial support.
216
I’d like to wish all of you a Shannah Tova, a healthy, happy, more energy efficient New
Year. I invite you now to wish your neighbors in the sanctuary, those in front of you
behind you and to each side, the same.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------!
Arlene Rosenbaum, President
Ohev Shalom of Bucks County (700)
Richboro, PA www.ohev.org
KOL NIDRE 5768 – 2007
Gud Yontif – Gemar Tov! Last year, I began my speech with a joke about
a new synagogue president who is sleeping like a baby – waking up every 2
hours and crying. After my first hectic year, and being without an Executive
Director for more than the past 6 months, I can relate better to the Beatles lyrics
“I’m so tired, I haven’t slept a wink, I’m so tired my mind is on the blink.”
I recently read that during the 2004 Presidential campaign, Senator Joe
Lieberman took his campaign to Long Island. As he always did while he was on
the road, he went to Shabbat services with his family at the local synagogue.
After services while standing with the synagogue president greeting people,
someone asked if he was a bissel mishugah – just a little bit crazy – to run for
President. Senator Lieberman responded “You don’t have to be crazy to run for
President of the United States, but you absolutely have to be crazy to be a shul
217
president.” With all due respect to Senator Lieberman, I disagree. Well…maybe
a bissel meshugah. (Ah…so you know some yiddush)
But, you don’t have to be crazy to be president when we have such a
wonderful senior staff led by Rabbi Perlstein, Cantor Frimark, Hannah Soffer and
Lori-An Penchansky. And when we have outstanding individuals who serve on
the Board of Directors, each of whom brings to the table unique and valuable
points of view. I thank you all. I’d like to single out the members of the Executive
Committee – your endless dedication is critical to the progress and viablility of
Ohev Shalom. I thank you all for your strength – these are not easy issues and
you deal with them wisely and respectfully. While I am thanking people, I owe
my biggest thanks to my husband Mark for putting up with me, supporting me
and allowing me to be a bissel meshugah. I’d like to recognize our support staff,
Paula, Patty, Carol and Ellie who keep things running properly in the office – and
all of our maintenance staff who keep this building sparkling. It was after an
extensive search for a new Executive Director that we found ours sitting in the
pews right here at Ohev Shalom. When our Board of Directors voted to welcome
Fred Poritsky as our new Executive Director, we could not have found a finer
choice for a person of integrity, experience and Judaic knowledge as well as
community involvement to join our professional staff. I am especially thankful to
have Fred starting in this position on Mon., Sept. 24th, and I’m not kidding when
I’ve told him that I am counting down the minutes! I invite you all to join us in
welcoming Fred at an extended Kiddush on Saturday, October 13th.
218
It is with much joy that we come together in our newly renovated indoor
space this year for the High Holy Days. We are grateful for the many
congregants who have stepped forward to make this dream a reality, especially
Irv and Elaine Levin who have led the way with their most wonderful generosity.
There are still opportunities to join in and contribute. It is exciting watching the
progress that is taking place with the new construction. With the steel beams up,
it’s really looking like a building now. Or, as I heard Jeff Gordon say, “Maybe it’s
just a really big Sukkah! I realize that at times the construction has been an
inconvenience, but it is a joyful inconvenience. Believe it or not, the construction
is following along on schedule and our synagogue campus will be completed this
winter. I hope many of you will be with us on Saturday, May 3 when we will hold
a dinner dance to dedicate the Irv and Elaine Levin Building and the completion
of our synagogue campus. I want to express my thanks to Allen Laiter on behalf
of all of us at Ohev Shalom for being our representative during the construction
process. Allen’s dedication and knowledge of this project is amazing. Our
completed synagogue campus will be a building for generations to come – for
ourselves and our children.
Recently all of you received a letter and a pledge card from myself or
Rabbi for the Annual Appeal. We already have 27 members who have
committed to be a part of the Rabbi’s Circle. I also invite you to join Mark and me
at the Ner Tamid level. So far 10 have responded that they want to be included. I
thank you all in advance for your generous donations to the Annual Appeal at the
level that you feel comfortable with.
219
Tonight I want to talk about “What Ohev Shalom has to Offer You.” This year
I hope you all take the time to join in and get involved in something that interests
you at Ohev Shalom. Come out for a Sisterhood meeting, a Men’s Club
breakfast or a Hazak event. Visit our Bennett Zion Feld Library, attend minyan,
or a social event. Come to one of our wonderful holiday programs, or attend a
Rock Shabbat. Get involved with our wonderful Hebrew School and Preschool.
Attend one of our Adult Education classes in our Beit Midrash free of charge
through our Torah Endowment Fund. Get involved with Social Action and Tikkun
Olam. Our Selichot Program this year was an interactive program about Jews
and the Environment. The program was led by my son Derek Rosenbaum who
is a 2nd year rabbinical student at The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College. That
evening he charged us with forming a new committee – a Green Task Force – to
explore ways to make us and Ohev Shalom more environmentally friendly. If this
is your passion, get involved. Make plans to come out and support our Ohev
Shalom Players when they perform Beauty and the Beast this winter. And
definitely mark your calendars for an event that you won’t want to miss –
Saturday, December 15th when we are proud to present An Evening with Alan
Dershowitz, who is a Professor of criminal law at Harvard Law School and is
known for his extensive published works, career as an attorney in several high
profile law cases, and commentary on the Arab-Israel conflict. He comments
regularly on issues related to Judaism, Israel, civil liberties, the war on terror and
the First Amendment.
220
In order to make Ohev Shalom even stronger and to involve more of us, we
are launching Synaplex, - dynamic programming for all ages from tots to seniors.
The Synaplex programming will offer congregants a number of different
programs and/or services on special Shabbat weekends 3 – 4 times each year.
Synaplex is a national program – it encourages congregations to think about who
they are and who they would like to reach out to, and to think “outside of the
box.” With Synaplex, we hope to provide spiritual Shabbat experiences for all of
our congregants. I attended my first Synaplex orientation meeting on Tuesday
evening. You will soon be hearing more about it, but if you want to get in on the
ground level and join a creative team to be a part of the think tank that will get
Synaplex started, please let me or Fred know.
One of the visions and goals of our Executive Committee is to
nurture new leadership among our young family members, as well as to sustain
and build upon the leadership of our more senior members. Leadership of our
community, with all of its burdens and obligations, also carries with it great honor
and great satisfaction. It is written in the Talmud that any person who works for
the needs of the community, it is as if that person is studying Torah. By
volunteering and becoming involved at Ohev Shalom, we are bringing Torah to
life. By becoming involved and committed to a Jewish community, each of us
makes Judaism come alive. All of the programs and activities that we offer would
not be possible without our single most important resource – our volunteers. Our
volunteers are the backbone and the greatest strength of this community. We
thank each and every one of our volunteers and admire them for their dedication
221
and readiness to give so freely of their time, energy and talents. I ask you to
become involved. I ask you to help make Ohev Shalom an even better
community. We offer many points of entry, many ways to become a part of the
community. When we work together, we create a vibrant community where all of
our skills and contributions are valued. This year you were all mailed Spiritual
Pledge Cards along with your Yom Kippur ticket. Take a few moments to look at
the cards, turn down a tab or two, or more if you like. They will be collected at
the end of my speech. If there is something that you feel you can contribute that
is not on the cards, please feel free to contact me after the holidays so that we
can discuss it. It has been many years since we have handed out Spiritual
Pledge cards – since 1995 – and I want to thank Hal Barrow and Barbara Kind
Berman for the work that it took to develop them. Hal also spearheaded an
Orientation Session for all Board Members this year. He is also planning a
Leadership Institute for all who want to learn more and become more involved at
Ohev Shalom. Join us for the opening session of the New Leadership Institute
on Wednesday, October 24th. As it is written in Pirkei Avot – “You are not
obligated to finish the task, neither are you free to neglect it.”
When I finished writing this speech on Monday, I gave it to my best critics
to read, my husband and children. My oldest son said, “Mom, it’s good, but you
need to add a personal story”. I quickly answered something like “I’m way too
busy to add even one more thing to it. It will have to do.” Well, life has a way of
throwing things at you. The very next day, on Tuesday, our beautiful, sweet,
almost 16 year old cat Clapton passed away. So Rabbi, this year there will be
222
one less pet in line to be blessed by Noah. I’ll be there with our collie, Layla, and
our greyhound, Dolly, but no Clapton. Why do I tell you this? Maybe there is a
lesson to learn from Clapton. I’ve been told by people that cats are distant and
aloof, but not our Clapton. He always wanted to be a part of the group and to be
with everyone, a part of the community. He wanted to join in. And so here at
Ohev Shalom I hope we are never to be aloof. As your President I hope to be
open and communicative and that our leadership be connected to each of you.
The door of the future leadership of Ohev Shalom is open to you. This year my
hope is that you walk through the door and join in.
I wish you a year of health, much happiness, laughter, and may we all find
peace. Have an easy fast.
Gemar Tov.
Now, will the ushers please come forward and collect the Spiritual Pledge
Cards.
223
Jon Fraade - President
Sulam 30
The Conservative Synagogue (440)
Westport Ct
Kol Nidre – 5768
Good Shabbas and good Yontuf
Over the past 9 days, many of you have spoken to me about your happiness with our
shul’s direction and the agenda that we are focused on for the year ahead. You have
asked me how being President has impacted me, which I will tell you has been a very
positive experience….so far.
Tonight I am experiencing Kol Nidre in an entirely new way as a result of my new
position. This is the tenth time that we have chanted the Kol Nidre prayer from this
pulpit, but this is the first time that I have been in the sanctuary to hear it. Why is that ?
For the past 9 years, I have been in the rotunda, on the other side of the closed doors,
listening to the audio speakers. I can assure you that this is not the result of my being
late, but because ever since moving into this building, I have been an usher during the
Kol Nidre service. I was helping to maintain security and decorum at this very important
time.
This is one of the many commitments that we collectively make to this community,
our community, which is the topic of my remarks tonight.
If you were to look at the schedule of our services, you would see that this time is setaside for the President’s Appeal. Interestingly, it is not listed as a financial appeal. But,
have no fear; I will address finances, but only in the context of a more comprehensive
appeal for all of us to make a greater commitment to our synagogue community.
But before I turn to that, I’d like to speak to you about what keeps me up at night. What
causes me to happily commit so much time to this shul, and to so many other Jewish
organizations? I worry about Jewish continuity. I worry about the look of American and
Israeli Judaism 20, 30 and more years from now. I see us, those of us who practice the
Jewish faith, as being special, being chosen. This does not mean being better, but being
different. As we have moved from being 3 % of the US population, to now being 2 % or
maybe less, I am concerned about what it will mean to be Jewish if we become less that 1
% of the US population.
224
Forty years ago, Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel wrote the following “Every individual is
a pillar on which the future of Judaism rests. There is no vicarious Judaism: No
institutions can discharge the responsibilities of the individual…each Jew is obliged to
say: into my hands has been given the future of the entire people."(1)
These words are even more relevant today than they were 40 years ago. This means that
we cannot be idle bystanders. We need to be involved. For it is my belief that without a
strong synagogue and without a strong connection to our faith, the acceptance that we as
Jews have found in America will only lead to an increase in the already high rate of
assimilation, and the five thousand year old culture that we brought to this country will
largely disappear.
Each and everyone of us must to commit to helping Judaism flourish. How can we help
make this happen ? In the year ahead, I hope that each of you will do one or more things
at or with our synagogue that you have not done before. Attend an additional adult ed
event, come to services, volunteer to help run an activity or be on a committee,
participate in an another sisterhood or brotherhood activity. In addition, please think
about and communicate to us ways that The Conservative Synagogue, our synagogue,
can play an even more important role in your life.
Tell us what you are looking for and we will see if we can provide it. Some of the
activities that we have recently added or will be adding in the months ahead are a broader
and more comprehensive adult ed program, a women's Rosh Chodesh Group led by
Cantor Berman, Kabbalat Shabbat services at the beach, additional programs for our
families with pre-school age children, and more family involvement in the education of
our youth.
As another example, 10 days ago a couple of our our teens approached me about our
having a youth lead high holiday service for our USY, high school age members.
Tomorrow this service will come into fruition, and since we haven’t had the luxury of a
long lead time to promote it heavily, we are relying on your word of mouth to encourage
our teens to attend. So please spread the word about our first teen lead high holiday
service that will be held tomorrow at 5:15, concurrent with our Mincha service.
At the September meeting of our Board of Directors, our committees began to
describe their goals for the next two years and the activities that they have
planned for the next 12 months. After hearing about some of the things that we
offer, one person asked whether all our members are aware of everything that
we offer. The consensus was that you probably are not. As a result, over the
months ahead we will be putting together a description of all the programs and
services that are available to each and everyone of you.
In order for us to be successful in our mission, we also require your help financially.
Unfortunately, our annual dues are not sufficient to cover the operating costs of our
Synagogue and as a result we need to run a couple of fundraisers each year. Last winter,
we launched our Year of the Torah and I am so grateful to all of you who gave your
225
generous support to this program. I am pleased to report that we met our monetary goal,
which means that we will not have a general fundraiser this coming Spring.
The success of the Year of the Torah can not diminish the importance of our Kol Nidre
Appeal, which is our largest annual fundraiser. It is our most critical fundraiser and we
rely on its success for so much of our important programing. Last year, we set a
synagogue record and raised over $ 200,000. This was only possible due to the
extraordinary generosity of so many of you. We need to do this again. We need those
who gave in the past to please do so again and we need those who did not participate to
please join with the rest of us and to become part of this critical fundraiser. Once again I
am pleased to report that every member of our Board of Directors has made a pledge to
the Appeal. That's correct, 100 % of our lay leadership has made a personally
meaningful pledge to the Appeal.
So please take the pledge card that is labeled with your name. Decide which tab
represents a meaningful pledge for you and your family. Then think if you can afford to
move one tab to the right. Remember that the money you pledge is instrumental to the
programs and services that we offer. It is key to helping us strengthen the Jewish
continuity in our community, in our shul and in our families. Please feel free to fold
down multiple tabs, if that will better reflect the amount that you wish to pledge. Then
place the card in the envelope from which it came and place it in the pledge box that is in
the rotunda. But, please make your commitment now and please give generously because
what we do now, will impact the future.
In closing, and in the tradition of our faith on this holy day, I would like to ask
forgiveness from anyone for any wrong I may have done to them. As the
president of this shul, I also ask your forgiveness for any hurtful actions or words
that may have come from any of our officers, board members, staff or volunteers.
We are not a perfect group; we do try to learn from our mistakes; and we are
working to better our congregational family and our community.
Thank you, and and G’mar Chatima Tovah, may you be inscribed in the Book of
Life.
(1) Heschel and the Insecurity of Freedom, 1966 (pp. 187-195)
Jon’s Rosh Hashanah Speech
Rosh Hashanah 5768 – 2007
226
Thank you Rabbi Tobin and Shalom Chaverim
I am both honored and humbled to serve as our synagogue’s President and look forward
to leading our congregation.
My family and I have been members of this shul for over 11 years. During this time,
each of my three children and my wife Karin, have become a b’nai mitzvah on this
bimah. In each case they had a chance to address the congregation. I guess it is now my
chance, although the sanctuary is a bit more full today than on a usual Shabbat morning.
Traditionally, our President has addressed the congregation on the first day of Rosh
Hashanah to discuss the State of the Shul – which is what I will do this morning. I will
speak to you about some of the things we have accomplished over the past year, and what
we expect to accomplish in the year ahead.
I’d like to begin by telling you that the state of our shul is strong. This is the result of all
of our efforts, but I feel that I must single out our past Presidents. I have had the
opportunity to work closely with Shelly Kassen, Alan Phillips, Joan Merlis, Larry
Schwartz (may he rest in peace), Isabel Moskowitz and Beth Rand. I know that each has
stepped down from office having left the synagogue in a better place. My hope is that the
next president who speaks from this bimah can say the same about my efforts.
What makes me confident that our shul is strong? I will cite four things to demonstrate
our strength:




First, our membership base is stable;
Second, the increased depth and breadth of our programming and activities and
the increasing number of you who are taking advantage of them;
Third, we are on solid ground financially due to your collective generosity and
our prudent financial management, and
Fourth, we are viewed favorably within the broader Conservative movement. An
example of this is our being asked to be one of twelve congregations nationwide
that serve on the National Board of our umbrella organization, the United
Synagogue for Conservative Judaism.
Before I take a look to the year ahead, I’d like to look back at some of our most notable
successes over the past year.
Once again, our programs have been honored by others. United Synagogue honored our
Tikun Olam program. This honor recognized our continuing efforts to help others who
are less fortunate. We expressed this core value in many ways…..by helping Habitat for
Humanity build a house in Bridgeport, by helping Westport’s Interfaith Housing
Association in a wide variety of ways, including serving meals at the Gillespie Center
and our annual Share the Pie fundraiser, by playing an integral role in the annual Rebecca
Chusid Toy Drive and by encouraging our children to give Tzedukah and to participate in
our annual Tzedukah fair. In light of this core value, I hope that each of you will please
227
take one of the empty Project Isaiah grocery bags from the table outsode and return it this
week full of non-perishable food for our local food pantries, which are in grave need at
this time.
Our Youth Groups have gotten bigger and better. Our high school youth program, USY,
earned awards for Excellence in Support of Israel, Chapter on the Rise, Best Holiday
Program and Most Creative Regalia. The past president of our Chapter, Brandon Davis,
was elected as our USY Regional President, for the region covering Connecticut and
Western Massachusetts, and is a member of USY’s international board of directors.
We hired an exceptional educator and person as our religious school director. Danny
Kochavi is a valuable addition to the rest of our extraordinary professional team of Rabbi
Tobin, Cantor Berman, Geri Smiles and Marcy Bratman. I am confident that Danny’s
efforts will help lead us to an even higher level of success as we seek to increase our
children’s knowledge and connection to God, Torah and Israel.
Under the direction of Geri Smiles, we started two successful activities for our pre-school
families. Our WonderPlay program offers parents the opportunity for social time for
themselves and their one year old children. In addition, we introduced a 'preschool plus'
program that bridges the time between the end of preschool and the beginning of our
summer program. In total, over 100 children enrolled in these new activities.
We launched our Mitzvah Meals program, which involves our members cooking
and freezing a supply of meals in the synagogue kitchen. These meals are then
delivered to congregants in times of need… a meal during shiva, a Shabbat meal
for a family welcoming a new baby, a helping hand for a family during an injury or
illness. The success of this grassroots effort is measured by heart-warming
notes we receive from the grateful recipients of these meals.
The Year of the Torah is a big success in so many ways. First of all, more than half of
you physically participated in writing our new Torah scroll. For many of our members,
this was a very meaningful experience, made even more so by the involvement of our
scribe, Rabbi Menachem Youlis. Second, from a financial perspective, we were able to
meet our fundraising goals. This will allow us to provide the various programs and
services that are so important. Tremendous thanks are due to each of you who made a
financial commitment to this project. Finally, we are giving our generation and the
generations that follow a living legacy. Rather than placing our Shoah scroll behind
plexiglass, we are taking the steps needed to rekasher it so that it will be used. Just
imagine the impact on our children and grandchildren of standing on this very bimah and
reading from a Torah that the Nazi’s tried to destroy.
The Year of the Torah will culminate with a dedication ceremony on Sunday December
16th. This is the weekend that immediately follows Hanukah, the holiday that
commemorates the rededication by the Maccabees of the Second Temple. I hope that
each of you can join us on that day for what will be a very memorable experience,
228
Now I will look forward to the year ahead. One of our most important priorities will be
to search for a new Rabbi. We are very appreciative for the 4 years of service that Rabbi
Tobin has given us and look forward to his continued leadership over the year ahead. It
is clear to me that we are in a better place today, in so many ways, compared to four
years ago. And for that we are all grateful.
I am pleased to report to you that our Rabbi Search Committee, chaired by Beth Rand, is
up and running. The Committee met earlier this month and is very engaged in its
important task. Over the next 6 weeks, the Committee will be seeking your input through
both questionnaires and focus groups as we prepare to submit our application for a new
Rabbi. Your input is critical to the Committee’s success and I hope that you will each
make time for this important priority.
A second major priority is the integration of our new Religious School Director. Danny
comes to our shul with a wealth of experience and we feel very fortunate that he chose to
join us. Under his leadership, we are committed to bringing the education of our youth to
the next level of success. He is introducing a number of changes, including an
enhancement of our 7th through 12th grade programs. He is also looking to improve the
high holiday experience for our children by offering more interactive and age appropriate
services. Traditionally, we have experienced a drop off in synagogue participation, by
both adults and children, on the second day of Rosh Hashanah. In response, tomorrow
we will be offering something new, a family oriented service for parents and their third to
sixth grade children. And then next Friday, immediately following the Kol Nidre prayer,
we will be offering a special program for our high school youth. I encourage you to take
advantage of these new offerings, and to give us your feedback, as we seek to improve
the educational and ritual programs that we offer.
Education is not just for our youth. Past surveys have demonstrated the importance of
adult education to each of you. In order to offer a wider array of programming, we are
increasing our collaboration with other organizations in our community. Last year, we
co-sponsored one speaker with Temple Israel. This year, for example, we will sponsor
two major speakers with Temple Israel and the Westport chapter of Hadassah. I am
pleased to announce that Rabbi Daniel Gordis, who spoke so dynamically from this
bimah 3 1/2 years ago, will be back in our community on November 11th and Linda
Hooper, the inspiration behind the 6 million Paper Clips Project, will visit our community
in April. Just think about the connection. Bringing back to life a Torah that the Nazi’s
sought to destroy and shortly afterwards bringing into the community one of the most
compelling speakers on combating intolerance.
In February, we will welcome Nigel Savage. Nigel is the founder of Hazon, an
organization that seeks to create a healthier and more sustainable Jewish community.
This will serve as the kick-off for a series of activities that relate to how we can become a
more environmentally aware and environmentally friendly community.
229
And finally, in March we will be collaborating with the other Conservative Synagogues
in Fairfield County to host the new Chancellor of the Jewish Theological Seminary who
will speak to our community about his vision for the Conservative Movement.
Cantor Berman will continue to deepen our spiritual connections by introducing a
women’s Rosh Chodesh group that begins in October, which will supplement the other
holiday programming that she leads each year. In addition, I’d be remiss not to mention
the increasing number of our youth that are becoming life long torah readers as a result of
her continued leadership of this program.
Beyond these priorities, our Board and each of its Committees is engaged in a longerterm planning and goal setting effort that is focused on where we would like to see
ourselves in future years and the steps that we must take to reach these goals. Your input
into this effort is welcome and I encourage you to speak to any member of our Executive
Committee; myself, Ilene Frost, Alan Clement, Margie Labarre, Stacy Kamisar, Ari
Rothman, and Michele Wrubel because we would like to hear your thoughts.
As I wrote these remarks, I realized there is so much more that I could say. My kids told
me that 15 minutes should be my limit. They told me that no one, Ok other than the
Rabbi, should speak for more than 15 minutes. There is so much more that I could tell
you. The hard work that so many of our members are engaged in. The tremendous
financial generosity that exemplifies our community. The new programs that are being
developed and the team focus among all of our volunteer leaders. But 15 minutes is up
and my remarks should come to an end.
But before I do so, a few thank yous. I can only accomplish my role as President because
so many extraordinary people surround me. Extraordinary volunteers, extraordinary
professionals and extraordinary staff. I could thank each of them from the bimah, but I
hope that they each know the deep thanks and appreciation that I have for the work that
each and every one of them does. So my request to you, my fellow congregants and
friends, is to please, go up to the people who work so hard to do the holy deeds of this
wonderful congregation and thank them for their work. I know that your thanks will be
very meaningful to each and everyone of them.
On behalf of the Board of Directors and my family, Karin, Jordan, Michael and Rachel, I
wish each of you a year of peace, of happiness and of prosperity
L’Shana Tova
230
Jerry Landau
President, Har Zion Congregation
Scottsdale, N.Y.
KOL NIDRE – 2007
It was coincidence, about a year after our son Nathan was born,
the synagogue we belonged to decided no longer to exist. Barbara and I
found ourselves looking and deciding where to affiliate. Probably, most
of our members due to proximity and reputation were considering Har
Zion Congregation. We visited the campus, then on Lincoln Road.
Rabbi Bisman welcomed us as did the lay leadership. As I do many
times, I related to what I refer to as Synagogue back in New York. I
was very comfortable at Temple Beth-El in Long Beach where my
family belonged for many years and wanted the same here in Arizona. I
found that comfort and more at Har Zion Congregation.
A few months later, at a political fundraiser for a Jewish elected
official, I ran into one of our members, Larry Hirsch, who now at home
on the road to recovery from illness and at whose home my family will
chant Yiskor tomorrow. Larry was very active at Har Zion, a driving
force in obtaining the sanctuary we sit in today. I told Larry I wanted
to be more involved in the synagogue. Larry put me in contact with our
leaders. I never dreamed that I would have the honor of being President
of Har Zion Congregation.
When Senator Joseph Lieberman was running for President of
the United States, he was a great deal of the time away from home on
Shabbat. As he always did on the road, he went to Shabbat services with
his family, After services one Shabbat, while standing with the
Synagogue President at the Kiddush, he was asked if maybe he had to
be “eppes a bissel Meshugah”- just a little bit crazy- to run for
President. Senator Lieberman responded - “You don’t have to be crazy
231
to run for President of the United States, but you absolutely have to be
crazy to be a Shul President.”
In the six weeks I have been fortunate to serve as President of Har
Zion Congregation I must admit I have heard similar comments.
However, with all due respect to the fine Senator from Connecticut and
to my friends, I disagree. The position does have its moments.
However, one does not have to be crazy to be a synagogue president, not
when our congregation boasts members from one day old to 100 years
old, not when our synagogue has a completely full, very well respected
early childhood center, not when we offer minyon morning and evening
every day, not when our synagogue offers a top flight religious school
and bar/bat mitzvah training – and I know that for sure, for our one
year old who joined his mother and father looking for a shul, will be bar
mitzvah in three and half months – not when we feature ever expanding
adult education programs and youth programs– not when we can say
that we have a vibrant and award winning men’s club and sisterhood
and not when we strive to offer something for everyone.
When I assumed the Presidency of Har Zion, I stopped, looked
around the campus and thought to myself, “what does it means to be
placed is this position?” Yes, it is a mitzvah, but it is also an awesome
responsibility. I am in some way responsible for a portion of the lives of
all of you.
The greater Phoenix area is home to many fine congregations.
Har Zion Congregation, however, is home to the most stable clergy in
the valley. We are so fortunate that Rabbi Mark Bisman has led our
pulpit for 24 years. Our Hazzan Bernard Savitz has been with us for 5
years. For the first time Har Zion’s pulpit is home to an assistant
Rabbi. However, we did not need to look far for Rabbi Elon Sunshine,
now entering his second year at our congregation, he grew up right here
in Phoenix. Our Executive Director, Ann Pshaenich, has “run” Har
Zion for 33 years. She told me this week she started at age 12.
When my family comes into this building and onto this campus we
are at home – and this is so important.
We enjoy it, we have that
warm feeling that comes with being at home at a synagogue.
232
When I come onto this campus as President I also think of our
members, our families, our children, our activities. I also, however
think of the buildings and the budget, all the “business aspects’ of
running a synagogue. I think of the High Holidays and the tickets and
the service you yearn for and expect.
In this vain I am asking you to help all of us – and I am not taking
about money – that will come. On this Kol Nidre we all have a
responsibility that goes hand in hand with being affiliated or attending a
synagogue, a house of worship. I am asking you to lend your time spend an hour a week, or an hour a month, whatever you can do, lend
your talents your expertise, your knowledge. From leading minyon to
improving our website to fixing a building, there are opportunities. I
also ask those of you who are not affiliated with a synagogue, do what
my family did, look around and decide to join, whether it be Har Zion
or another synagogue, and I hope it is Har Zion.
The Kol Nidre appeal, I came to learn has been with us since the
middle ages. Throughout the years, it has benefited many causes within
the synagogue. One thing I, well I did not learn it, I guess I knew it, it is
not easy or inexpensive to maintain a synagogue and provide the
service, the programming and the facilities, you expect, the building we
pray in tonight, the playground for the pre-school, the classrooms for
the preschool and the religious school, the books for adult education, the
clergy to teach us. Like your home, the building must be maintained,
the roof repaired, well you know. I did come to learn that Har Zion
Congregation has a budget of 1.6 million dollars, of which dues only
make up slightly more than a third of the income.
Your clergy and lay leadership of Har Zion Congregation are
committed to maintaining, enhancing and improving a vibrant
congregation. Within this framework we recently took a major step –
engaging an assistant Rabbi, as I mentioned Rabbi Elon Sunshine, who
is a product of Phoenix. With an assistant Rabbi we expand our
capability to serve and provide for our members. With an expanded
clergy Rabbi Bisman and all members of our clergy can offer more to
all of you. My family felt this first hand when my father in law passed
away in February. We especially want to grow our membership, youth
service and, adult education, to name a few areas.
233
We recently received a generous grant from the family of our long
time dear member and friend, Adele Gordon, to celebrate her 100th
birthday, a grant to assist in beautifying the campus. We are looking at
various plans to honor Adele. However, we need and want to do more.
Nancy Siegel, our early childhood center director tells us that if
we expand the children’s area we can take in more children to our preschool, if we had more classrooms, we would not need to crowd students
into the social hall. With some changes to the social hall our families
could host more simchas here at Har Zion and additional meeting space
would be available. Our cramped office area needs work as does the
parking lot. These are just but examples.
A long time friend of mine, not Jewish, but knowing that I would
be speaking to you this night sent me an article from the September 10
Washington Post. You may have seen it as it probably was printed in
other newspapers.
Let me read part of it, “Dateline – Miami Beach.
Just in time for the Jewish high holidays, two lifetime front row
seats for services at a synagogue are being auctioned on E-Bay. The
bidding starts at 1.8 million dollars.
The winner’s family will be engraved on Seats 1 and 2 of Row 1,
Section DD at Temple Emanu-El. The winner will also get to schmooze
with the Rabbi and will receive two custom made prayer shawls and
yarmulkes and a hefty tax write off. Plus the winning bidder can pass
down the seats to his or her children”.
Here at Har Zion we do not sell seats for life, we do not auction
seats to the highest bidder. I am not saying that is right or wrong, it is
just not a philosophy that our leaders throughout the years have
embraced, no matter how successful such a concept might be.
Our services are conducted in part by lay leaders, who will dovan,
read torah and chant Haphtarah. We come to a Beit Midrash, we come
to a Beit HaMidrash, and we come to a Beit HaKenesset. We come to a
house of prayer, a house of learning, a house of communal gathering.
234
In researching some information to help me frame some thoughts
for this holiday, I turned to that modern day home of Jewish
commentary and thought – the internet. I read this short article that
initially drew my attention because the Rabbi who wrote it has the same
last name as my late father in law and was from the home of my mother
in law, Buffalo, New York. Rabbi Yacov Haber wrote in part,
“During the Second World War, a German soldier was mortally
wounded in battle, and as he fell, a priest rushed up to administer the
last rites. With his remaining strength, the soldier pushed the priest's
cross away, and said: "Ich bin ein Jude!" ("I am a Jew!") The priest
replied: "Sorgen sich nicht, ich bin auch ein Jude!" ("Don't worry, I'm
also a Jew!").
Both remembered they were Jewish.
It is remarkable, Rabbi Haber went on, how every Yom Kippur
all over the world, thousands upon thousands of people who otherwise
never come near a synagogue, come to the Kol Nidre service. It is known
that the Kol Nidre prayer gained in significance during the persecution
of Jews in Spain at the time of the Inquisition. People who had been
forced to convert, the Marranos, behaved outwardly like their
neighbors, but inwardly they remained Jews. Once a year they used this
prayer to renounce the oaths they had been forced to make forswearing
their own religion in favor of Christianity. Deep down, in their
innermost souls, they remained Jewish. The Kol Nidre was a
proclamation that their vows, all their external behavior, was not really
them. This prayer helped them cleanse themselves of their outer
garments and reach their inner souls”.
My eighth grade English teacher, Barbara Katz, told my mother
that I do not deal well with the abstract. Maybe, that is why I studied
law rather than philosophy. She also lowered my grade on a book
report when talking about children in a book, I used the word “kids”.
She wrote, “You are not taking about baby goats”.
But seriously, I do tend to look at things somewhat concrete, so
the best I can say is please pause for a moment, think, deep down,
respond. I look from the bimah tonight, on Rosh Hashanah, on
Shabbat. I see all of you and inside of me feel how fortunate we are to
235
be here. Help keep this alive, help Har Zion sustain and grow. We can
accomplish so much for all of us. We can continue to make Har Zion
and all we stand for a greater part of our lives
You hopefully, picked up pledge cards outside the sanctuary. If
not, do not be disappointed, our ushers have extras. Please be generous,
please take that extra step, move your fingers over one tab. As
President of Har Zion Congregation, I am excited. Please share this
excitement with me.
Good Yom Tov and Todah Rabah, thank you.
236
Mark S. Kaufman
President, Shaare Tefila Congregation
Silver Spring/Olney, Maryland
Nu, so here we are again. It was Kol Nidre 1999 when I started off
my address to the Congregation with that line. For some reason it
seems more appropriate today, almost seven years later.
Two years ago when I agreed to take this job for a second time a lot
of people asked why I would do it again. In response I wrote “a la
David Letterman” a top ten list on why I was willing to be
Congregation President a second time. Now that I’m doing this a
third time I’ve been getting the same question so I took out the list
and updated it. However, a two year old joke is a two year old joke so
I left it on my computer.
This time around the questions are more direct and I feel like Sancho,
James Coco, from Man of La Mancha. You know, when Aldonza,
Sophia Loren, asks him why he follows Don Quixote around. She
asks him, “What do you get out of it?”. Sancho stutters and says that
he gets plenty out of it. But Aldonza believing that there is nothing in it
for him keeps pressing unable to understand why he does it.
Let me try to answer the question.
237
To start with, I wouldn’t be doing this again without the help of the ATeam that makes up the President’s Cabinet. I’ve already introduced
them, but for those of you who have not worked with these people,
you do not know how truly talented and dedicated they are.
Additionally, we have a fantastic group of committee chairs,
especially Cilla Grosberg of Membership and Ways and Means, Rhea
Siers of Personnel, Ron Miller of Legal and Max Kantzer of the new
building design committee. I get to stand up here and be the face but
these are the people doing all of the hard work.
But the real reason I’m doing this for a 5th and 6th year is that these
are going to be two years of unparalleled excitement (and as we were
reminded this week sometimes a few bumps) and I’m excited about
the chance to be at the center of it. I’m doing this because on June 4,
please God, I want to have my hand on the shovel as we break
ground for the new building. I’m doing this because I want to be at
the podium sometime in the late summer of 2007 saying Shabbat
Shalom for our first service in the new sanctuary. And, sometime
after that when we have a formal dedication ceremony for the new
synagogue I want to be in front of the room as we give thanks for a
successful project.
It’s going to be an amazing journey the next two years. Please join
me.
Thank you.
238
I was going to tell you how it must be my Bar Mitzvah since I read
Torah and then get to make a speech from the Bimah; but I did that
six years ago when I found myself in the same position. I keep telling
people that if I ever thought I’d do this again I wouldn’t have used all
my good stuff the first time around.
A lot of people have asked why I was willing to do this job again, so I
sat down to think about it, put pen to paper and have come up with
the top ten reasons why Mark is willing to become Congregation
President again. So, here goes………
10. My employer came in and said “Kaufman, you’re spending too much
time on company business. Can’t you find something else to do?”
9. The State Highway Administration called and told me that there was not
enough traffic on Rt. 29 between Columbia and White Oak and asked if I
could figure out a way to make a couple of extra trips each week.
8. I was running out of excuses not to go to the gym to exercise
7. Stan Kensky slept through my first term and asked for a replay
6. What and pass up a chance to go to Board meetings for, at least, the
next 12 years.
5. I figured we could save the Congregation 30 bucks since my picture is
already on the wall.
239
4. Karen missed all of the perks that the Congregation gives to the
President’s spouse
3. I forgot to wear my “Anyone but me” button the day the Nominating
Committee met.
2. I heard that there was a new minority opinion that allows congregation
presidents to “duchen”.
1. Its never too early to make sure that you have a good parking spot for
Ilan Layman’s Bar Mitzvah.
------------------------------------------------------------------
240
Susan Zelman
Sulam 30
Temple Beth Sholom (900)
Roslyn Heights, NY
Kol Nidre 2007
Susan Zelman
Shabbat shalom, shana tova and g'mar hatima tova. It's an honor to have the
opportunity to welcome you and to address you this evening.
The months since the
installation in June have been full and have passed quickly. Since then, many people
have asked me how I’ve been handling the obligations and pressures of my job. Well, I
can tell you that ever since I’ve become president, I’ve been sleeping like a baby. I wake
up every 2 hours and cry. Seriously, I have loved being the president of Temple Beth
Sholom. It is truly an honor and a privilege to be your synagogue president.
Dr. Isa Aron, founding director of the Experiment in Congregational Education,
which brought us the Re-Image Project, leading to our mission to become a congregation
of lifelong Jewish learners, said, “the synagogue is the institution American Jews love to
hate. It is the Jewish organization they are most likely to join, and the one they are most
likely to participate in on a regular basis. It is also the most likely target of their ire and
their humor. Nearly everyone has a favorite synagogue story – about a boring service, a
callous member of the clergy, an outlandish bar mitzvah, a bitter controversy.”
One congregation was arguing over whether one should stand or sit during the
Shema. Half of the congregation said one should sit, the other half insisted one should
stand. Every time the Shema was recited they shouted at each other, “Sit down!” and
“Stand up!” The fighting became so bad that the congregation was split in two, each half
contending that they knew the tradition in that synagogue.
Finally, the rabbi decided to
visit a one hundred year old member of the synagogue who was living in a nursing home.
He took a delegation from each of the arguing sides with him to see the oldest member of
the “shul”. “Now, tell us,” said the rabbi, “what is our tradition?” “Should we stand
during the Shema?” “No,” said the old man. “That is not our tradition.” “Well, then,”
241
said the rabbi, “should we sit during the Shema?” “No,” said the old man, “that is not our
tradition.” “But we need to know what to do,” said the rabbi, “because our congregation
members are fighting among each other.”
“That,” said the oldest member of the
congregation, “that is our tradition.”
The dictionary defines a congregation as an assembly of persons brought together
for common religious worship, a community of men or women observing a common rule,
an assemblage, a collection, an ingathering, a team. Every member of this congregation,
every one of you, whether you come once a year, or are here every day or every week, is
a member of the TBS team. As the captain of this team, I invite you to join me to help
Temple Beth Sholom achieve its enormous potential. There are numerous standing and
ad hoc committees that you can join. There is even a volunteer corps of members who
want to lend a hand here and there without making a major time commitment. Feel free
to call or email me and I would be happy to speak with you.
I already know many of you and look forward to getting to know many more. Let
me tell you a little about myself, so you’ll see that even if we haven’t yet met each other,
we will have much to talk about. I grew up right here at Temple Beth Sholom, attending
our Religious School and Hebrew High School, becoming a Bat Mitzvah and getting
married here. My daughters are also graduates of our schools and became B’not Mitzvah
here. We may know each other from Hadassah, from the PTA or from the neighborhood.
I am known by some as Alan’s wife, Helen and Robin’s mother, or Sybil and David’s
daughter. I enjoy reading, cooking, playing tennis and computer games, playing and
listening to music, and going to Broadway shows. I love a salami sandwich and, forgive
me, I don’t like chocolate. Please feel free to introduce yourself to me, tell me what you
like and how you would like to participate on the team. Our next conversation can be
about your High Holiday experience.
I would love to know how you enjoyed the
services, whether in the sanctuary or the chapel, and what did you think about the ohel
experience or the Israeli choir.
On Rosh Hashanah, Rabbi Friedman challenged us to compose a statement of
belief. I believe that Gumby is an excellent role model. For those who don’t know him,
Gumby is a bendable, green clay humanoid figure who was the subject of a series of
animated TV shows that ran for 35 years. He was able to morph and reshape himself,
242
adapting to any new situation. What are some of Gumby’s qualities? He is flexible,
helpful, optimistic, honest and pure, adventurous, fearless, loving, and everybody’s
friend. And, most important, you need a sense of humor to appreciate the wisdom in
such a character.
These are important qualities for a leader, for members of a
congregation, for members of a team. This I believe.
On Rosh Hashanah, Rabbi Lucas challenged us to create a personal life-list that
incorporates the items on God’s to-do list, mitzvot. I don’t know about getting a tattoo or
bungee jumping, but seeing the world, continuing to pursue the things I enjoy, and
incorporating mitzvot into my life are on my list. Rabbi Lucas spoke about Chancellor
Eisen’s challenge to participate in a conversation on mitzvah and its meaning for our
lives. We can do this. What a tremendous opportunity for Conservative Jews and for the
entire Conservative Movement! I am so proud that Temple Beth Sholom has been
selected as one of nine congregations in North America that has been challenged to begin
this conversation, and I echo Rabbi Lucas’ invitation to you to participate in this
conversation, to be part of this team.
On these High Holy Days, we confront not only who we have been, but also who
we might become. With that in mind, we set in motion a plan for a major improvement
to our building that would address our present needs and help to ensure our future
success. This plan is the Capital Campaign project and construction of our new Early
Childhood Center, or ECC. We have accomplished much in the two years since we
launched the campaign. We have developed a scope for our project and raised much of
the money we will need to complete it.
The seeds for this endeavor were planted almost nine years ago, when a report
was prepared by the House Committee detailing necessary repairs and improvements to
our synagogue building, which is now more than 50 years old. Our budget allows us to
complete a small amount of this work each year.
The Board of Trustees voted to explore the construction of a new ECC,
understanding that this needed to be planned within the context of the other building
needs. We hired a fundraising consultant to conduct a feasibility study to determine
membership attitudes about a Capital Campaign.
We learned that the membership
overwhelmingly supported the needs of (1) enhancing and upgrading the infrastructure of
243
the synagogue and (2) constructing a new ECC facility. You understand the need to
maintain and to take proper care of your spiritual home. You understand that the Early
Childhood Center is a significant source of income in our annual operating budget, and is
an important entry point for new families. Since we began our fundraising campaign,
over 300 member families have pledged more than $4 million so far. I thank all of our
generous donors, and I thank all of our generous future donors.
Last year we hired an architect to develop a Master Plan and the initial stages of
design of an ECC. Immediately, the architect and members of our Planning/Scope
Committee met with different groups, such as administration, clergy, educators, day
camp, caterer, etc. to identify needs and to develop a building program. The architect
developed a comprehensive Master Plan and prepared beautiful renderings which we
displayed during last year’s High Holidays.
Because of significant increases in construction costs, we are proceeding
cautiously and judiciously. We’ve reduced the scope and are in the process of working
on a re-design. Although we are disappointed that we are not quite ready to put a shovel
in the ground, I am here to tell you that I am confident that, together, we will do this. We
will complete much of the work necessary in our building and we will build a beautiful
new Early Childhood Center of which we can be proud and that will help to ensure the
future of Temple Beth Sholom.
It is important to understand that undertaking any large project in a synagogue is
complex and takes much time. The administration changes annually, decision-making is
done by a 55-member Board of Trustees in partnership with a 900+ member
congregation, a very large team indeed. At the same time, everyone’s needs and desires
must be balanced with consideration of the fiscal health of the synagogue. This very
complex process has been conducted thoughtfully, responsibly, and thoroughly by the
administration and board, and by several committees. Progress has been reported in
newsletters and at congregational meetings which occur three times each year.
At each significant step, the decision to proceed is one that has to be made jointly
by the administration and the membership, in short, by the whole team. There will be a
congregational meeting scheduled soon at which we will discuss our progress and our
plan of action for the future.
244
Friends, there are many opportunities for you to be part of this large and complex,
diverse and, yes, sometimes, divisive, yet extraordinary Temple Beth Sholom team. It is
for you, for all of us, that we pray on this Yom Kippur, on this most solemn day of the
Jewish year.
May God who blessed our ancestors, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Sarah, Rebecca,
Rachel, and Leah, bless this entire congregation, together with all holy congregations:
them, their sons and daughters, their families, and all that is theirs; along with those who
unite to establish synagogues for prayer, and those who enter them to pray, and those
who give funds for heat and light, and wine for Kiddush and Havdalah, bread to the
wayfarer and charity to the poor; and all who devotedly involve themselves with the
needs of this community and the Land of Israel. May the Holy One reward them, remove
sickness from them, heal them, and forgive their sins. May God bless them by making all
their worthy endeavors prosper, as well as those of the entire people Israel. And let us
say: Amen.
Installation Speech
Installation speech – June 15, 2007
Rabbi Lucas, Cantor Barnoy, Rabbi Friedman, Rabbi Solomon, esteemed
past presidents, fellow board members, family & friends,
Congratulations and yasher koach to all of you who were installed this
evening. I would like to take this opportunity to welcome and acknowledge
the presence of a distinguished guest, the president of Shelter Rock Jewish
245
Center, Gary Zelman.
Yes, it’s true that the Zelman family has now
completely taken over the leadership of Conservative synagogues in Roslyn.
Seriously, I am overwhelmed and honored to be standing on this bima
tonight delivering my first address as your 39th president. I am proud to
become the 4th woman to hold this title and the very first Temple Beth
Sholom president who is a second generation member, putting me in a
unique position to bridge the past and the future.
This bima is neither a new nor an unfamiliar place to me. My family came
to Temple Beth Sholom in 1965 and many important milestones in my life
have taken place right here on this bima. I became a Bat Mitzvah here on
my 13th birthday during the first year of Rabbi Sternstein’s tenure.
I
celebrated my confirmation here in 10th grade. Alan and I stood together
under the chuppah on this bima almost 29 years ago and my brothers were
married here as well.
Our daughters Helen and Robin became B’not
Mitzvah here, were confirmed and graduated from MBS. I was installed in
various Executive Board positions and have assisted during services, making
presentations to our religious school students and B’nai Mitzvah numerous
times.
I did not grow up dreaming of becoming a temple president, but most of the
important steps in my life have led me precisely to this point. I am often
asked, “Why would you want to be a temple president?” My answer is
“Why not?”
I was taught from a very young age that not only is
volunteerism important, but that it can be a viable and satisfying career. For
the past 20-something years I have steadily worked my way up the volunteer
246
ladder.
This opportunity for me, this promotion, is the equivalent of
becoming a CEO of a corporation or a partner in a professional firm, a senior
researcher or even the general manager of a baseball team.
I have learned a tremendous amount from those presidents who came before
me. There is a wealth of collective wisdom and experience that I have come
to treasure. I know that I will depend upon and value this great resource. I
am most appreciative of the lessons learned from Larry Glass. Larry treated
me as a partner and allowed me to take on greater and greater responsibility
in order to learn the ropes.
He taught me about team-building and
consensus-building. He dealt with people with an even temper and fairness.
And he told me that I could blame him for anything that goes wrong for the
next 6 months.
Recently, Larry expressed frustration that he couldn’t wrap everything up in
a neat package and hand it over to me like a gift. The real gift, what I would
personally like to acknowledge and we should all be grateful for, is a
number of accomplishments during Larry’s term as president that have
greatly improved our temple community and will help ensure a solid future.
This is the part of the speech I like to call Larry’s legacy.
Under Larry’s leadership, the ReImagine task force completed a process that
led to the development of our new Department of Lifelong Learning.
During that time we hired our wonderful Assistant Rabbi Jeni Friedman.
We successfully negotiated a 10 -year contract extension with Rabbi Lucas.
We launched a capital campaign to build a new early childhood center and
refurbish our existing building, raising a significant amount of money
247
toward our goal. Our many minyanim expanded and flourished and our
programming exploded. Our new congregational Kiddush has been refined
to be a wonderful weekly Shabbat experience, from the L’chaim club to the
color of the sprinkles on the cookies. So you see, Larry, you have nothing to
regret. You should be proud that you have contributed exceptionally well to
the health and welfare of Temple Beth Sholom.
I want to thank my parents for raising me with a solid foundation of strong
Jewish values, for providing me with an outstanding Jewish education in this
very building, and for agreeing to be part of my TBS team of volunteers,
showing their support in the most tangible way possible. I want to thank my
girls, Helen and Robin, for always making me so proud. Can I brag about
my girls for a minute? Helen graduated from MIT last year and is now
living in Phoenix, working for the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Robin just
finished her 2nd year at Brown University and is heading off to Botswana for
her fall semester to study wildlife ecology. It means more to me than I can
say that they came tonight to show their support and encouragement. And
last, but not least, I have to thank Alan for his unwavering support and
encouragement.
Having shared in building a business together, I have
learned a tremendous amount from him about business and politics, skills
that will serve me well as president. He is a wonderful sounding board and
keeps me focused and centered. It is a good week when I don’t have more
than 2 or 3 evening meetings and he never complains, well, hardly ever.
It is now my awesome responsibility to carry the torch for the next 2 years,
to learn from those who came before, to add a little of my own special
formula and to prepare for those who will follow. I have a number of ideas
248
and plans that I will share with you during the coming months, and I hope to
hear some of your thoughts as well. I look forward to working with our
incredible professionals and with my fantastic executive board, one
challenge at a time, one step at a time, one day at a time.
Thank you all for coming and Shabbat Shalom!
---------------------------------------------------------
David Blattner
Beth Ahm Israel (420)
Cooper City, Florida
Beth Ahm Israel is a congregation of about 420 families. We peaked many
years ago near 600 families but we have been shrinking as many
conservative shuls are. We are located in a very large Jewish community
and face a lot of competition from other conservative shuls, but also
from newer, larger, fancier reform congregations, Chabad, modern
orthodox, day schools, JCCs, etc... The number of unaffiliated Jews
here is staggering. But, we have many committed and loyal members who
have been here far longer than I.
I will be completing the first year of a two year term in December. I
look forward to the next year as I hope to kick off a capital campaign,
the first ever in our Synagogue. We have spent the last year or so
meeting with our members discussing their needs and expectations so that
249
we can address our own weaknesses and challenges. There is positive
energy and momentum growing every day.
L’shanah Tovah. There is a group of Beth Ahm Israel
members who work out at the same time as I do most week
day mornings at the JCC before the sun rises. They have
offered me advice over the last few weeks about what to
say today which can be summed up in two words – short
and funny. To my fellow early risers, Linda, Ben, Larry,
Carrie, Cathy, Stacey, Barbara and of course Elaine
remember, I am an attorney. I have no sense of humor and
why use one word when 10 will do?
When my brother and I were young, our family moved
away from South Florida for a very short time. We lived in
a small town in the Midwest, Springfield, Illinois.
Springfield had a very small Jewish population. We
250
belonged to the only Synagogue in town, which,
predictably, had neither a large membership nor was the
Sanctuary big, but to a small boy, the Sanctuary seemed to
be very large and ornate. At one service, it might have
been a Shabbat service, or it might have been a High
Holiday service, the Rabbi, who to my brother and me
seemed to be older than Moses, stood at the pulpit to start
the services. He wore a large flowing robe. When he
raised his arms, the sleeves seemed to drop all the way to
the floor. He began to speak. The Congregation was
completely silent. “In God’s presence. . .” My brother,
who couldn’t have been more than 3 years old at the time,
blurted out, “God gives presents?” Of course, everyone in
the sanctuary, including the Rabbi heard the comment and
began to laugh. Talk about a tension breaker.
251
I don’t recall if the Rabbi stopped the service to
answer the question at the time and if he did, I certainly
don’t recall his answer. It would have made a good
discussion topic for an adult education program or even in
Sunday school class. More than 35 years later, I think this
is a good question for us to ponder, particularly during the
High Holidays. During these days of repentance, we are
supposed to examine our actions of the past year with the
desire and intent to strive to become a better person. We
have the opportunity to seek forgiveness for our sins from
God and to request forgiveness from anyone who we have
offended or acted unjustly towards. And, according to
tradition, God opens the Book of Life, and hopefully, our
names will be inscribed for another year. Is this not a gift
from God?
252
Each day we have so much to be thankful for.
Personally, I am most thankful for my family, for their
health and well being, as I am sure each of you is. To me,
this is the greatest present God has given us. We must treat
our loved ones as the most precious of treasures and hold
them close to our hearts.
I have an interesting perspective sitting here on the
Bima during the holidays, in fact each week on Shabbat. I
can see all of the families sitting together and enjoying their
time in shul together. It particularly hits home during the
High Holidays when we are all here together. Entire
families are in shul today. Kids are home from college.
Out of town relatives are here. Parents, in-laws, aunts,
uncles, brothers, sisters and grandparents have joined us.
But, in the broader sense, I see the entire Beth Ahm Israel
extended family together, in full force, happy to see each
253
other today. I see every one greeting each other like close
relatives, kibitzing in the lobby and during the breaks in the
services.
Sitting here on the Bima each week, I am
fortunate to observe it. Many of you have related personal
stories to me of the importance of your Beth Ahm Israel
family during parlor meetings over the last few months or
in private conversations. I have experienced and witnessed
the personal connections we all have with each other at
many Synagogue functions, at life cycle events and in times
of crisis and despair. Like any family, Beth Ahm Israel
members rally around each other in happy times and in sad
times. We celebrate together and, when necessary, we
console each other and mourn together.
This is a subject that you, the members of the
congregation continue to emphasize. The point I keep
hearing over and over when I speak with members and at
254
parlor meetings is that Beth Ahm Israel is primarily about
the people. Like any family, our family has needs. We
continue to listen to the things that you need and want for
our Synagogue today and for the future. Here are three of
the things that many of you have told us that are important
to the continued viability and strength of Beth Ahm Israel.
Education – there are many components to this
category. At the top of the list is our Religious School. As
you know we have recently re-dedicated the Religious
School in honor of Byrna Klur. Our principal, Marla
Lindenbaum continues to transform the Religious School
and revitalize the curriculum. We are now in the second
year of the ETGAR program which is an intensive program
for middle school aged students. This is a national program
designed to keep 6th, 7th and 8th graders interested to
Religious School through and after Bar and Bat Mitzvah by
255
involving contemporary and interesting topics through an
experiential curriculum. Our teachers are specially trained
at national programs in this curriculum. In addition, Marla
and the teachers are reaching out to parents more as they
continue to upgrade the core curriculum. Our Early
Childhood Program is thriving and enrollment is at an alltime high. Under the direction of Laurie Berger, our ECP
continues to receive awards. It is a safe, secure place for
your children and I encourage you to visit if you haven’t
seen Laurie and her staff in action. As for adult education,
we are in the process of adding new programs and speakers
that appeal to the adults of our congregation. Your input in
to the types of classes that appeal to you is always
appreciated.
Youth Programs – our USY, Kadima and Pre-Kadima
programs offer dynamic and interesting activities for all of
256
our children. Amanda Charson, our Youth Director, works
with all three youth groups. We are working with our
youth leadership to recruit new members and to build upon
the successes of last year. One of the best parts of the USY
and Kadima programs is that the kids are actively involved
in choosing the activities that they want and planning them.
They don’t rely on the adults to do the hard work and heavy
lifting. In this, we know that we are preparing and
educating our Synagogue’s, and the Jewish community’s
leaders of tomorrow.
Social Programs – I love it that so many people have
told me that we need to have some purely social programs
at the Synagogue, programs that don’t have any fundraising
component, religious component and aren’t necessarily
affiliated with any of our arms. This goes right to the heart
of what you say we are all about, people and relationships.
257
Just for fun, we had an informal BBQ in the middle of the
summer on a Sunday evening. 55 people attended and we
had a really great time. We are starting a new “Boomers
Group” next month for our baby boom generation who are
looking for a social outlet and plans are in the works for a
young couples club. We’ve also upgraded and improved
our Oneg Shabbat and Kiddish luncheons to give us all
more opportunity and reason to stay after Shabbat services
and socialize with each other a little longer. More events
are in the works.
In these first 9 months of my term as President, I have
learned much about Beth Ahm Israel and about you. I have
learned that Beth Ahm Israel is a place that is filled with
the sounds of prayer, the words of Torah and the cycles of
our lives. It is the place where our babies are named and
welcomed into the covenant of our people and of our
258
tradition. It is the place where our children begin to learn
about our Jewish heritage, taking their place as young men
and women as Bar or Bat Mitzvah. It is the place where
our children are married and where our lives connect with
one another and with Judaism. It is a place where we can
create memories and meaningful family experiences
through which we instill in our children a sense of comfort
with their Judaism, a sense of pride in their heritage and a
sense of commitment to our own shared future. It is a place
where we come to express our deepest anguish when we
lose a loved one and where we come each year to
remember and seek peace and solace in our sadness.
I have also learned that it is expensive to operate a
Synagogue. Like all of us in our own households, the
Synagogue must deal with the rising costs of day to day
living which, inevitably, must be passed on to our
259
membership. You aren’t alone in your concerns about the
rising costs of membership at Beth Ahm Israel. Believe
me, I worry about money. Rabbi, Cantor, Elaine, the Board
of Trustees – we all worry about money and how far we
can stretch a dollar. And, when I am worrying about
money, which is most of the time, what am I really
worrying about? The answer is simple: I am worrying
about the things that money can buy or, more explicitly, the
things that money can buy to help Beth Ahm Israel
continue to fulfill your needs and expectations every day.
We want to assure that we will be able to continue to
provide two Minyans every day so that you can say your
daily prayers or say Kaddish when necessary. We want to
assure that we will be able to continue to provide a strong,
loving Religious School to educate your children to prepare
them for Bar and Bat Mitzvah and to teach them a love for
260
Judaism. We want to assure that we will be able to
continue to provide a nurturing ECP program that provides
a foundation for growth for our youngest children. We
want to continue to assure that we will be able to continue
to provide a place for Sisterhood, and Men’s Club and
Hazak and USY to gather so that all of our members can
have a forum to help to fulfill social needs. We want to
assure that we will be able to continue to provide a place to
fulfill your spiritual and ritual needs each Shabbat and
holiday and to be there in for you in happy times and in
times of sadness. The list goes on.
We can continue to provide most of the services we
provide without asking for more today. Unfortunately, the
budget won’t balance and some services, some of what
makes Beth Ahm Israel feel like a family might slip away.
Will we still be a special place? Absolutely. Because, we
261
would still be about the people. BUT, IS JUST GOOD,
GOOD ENOUGH? There are many people in this room
today and many people not here today who rely on our
help. They rely on our help financially. They rely on us to
provide ALL of these services and even the slightest cut in
services or financial support could have a devastating
effect.
When a family member is in need, we don’t turn our
backs. We help. Like so many others before me who have
stood on this Bima, at this pulpit, on Rosh Hashanah, I am
asking you to think about the times that you needed your
Beth Ahm Israel family – and we were there for you.
Today is the day to consider the past and think about our
future. Don’t count on the person sitting next to you to
fulfill this obligation, for it is all of us together who must
insure the future. Like my predecessors, I will remind you
262
to give, not until it hurts, but until it feels good. Again, so
many of you continue to relate your personal stories to me
about how much this Synagogue and the people of this
Synagogue mean to you. Increasing your High Holiday
pledge is but a small way to honor your friends and
community. And, your increased commitment and
participation will help us immeasurably and will help us to
help those in our family who need us most.
In addition to your regular pledge, there is an
additional tab on your pledge card this year earmarked for
education. We will use your contributions to this fund to
create new educational programs at all levels, not simply to
supplement or balance our existing educational budget.
Education will be a major priority this year because it is
your priority. Please consider an additional contribution to
this new educational fund.
263
Although the position of President of a Synagogue is
an enormous undertaking, with the many fabulous people
on the Beth Ahm Israel team it is truly a labor of love. Of
all the organizations that I have been involved with over the
years, this is the one that I can honestly say is closest to
home simply because I can count on so many people. I
thank you for this opportunity and I look forward to another
year, if not another Rosh Hashanah speech. And, I would
like to thank Rabbi, Cantor and Elaine and the entire staff
of Beth Ahm Israel for their dedication to our community.
They make all of our lives much easier and deserve all our
gratitude.
On behalf of my family, my wife Elaine, my children,
Sarah and Steven, and on behalf of your Board of Trustees,
I wish all of you a happy and healthy new year. May you
264
all be inscribed in the book of life with the best that life has
to offer. L’shanah tova.
Ushers pick up envelopes.
Yiskor Speech by David Blatter
Good Yon Tov, Shabbat Shalom.
We are about to begin a very important portion of our
High Holiday services. You can tell how important Yizkor
is by looking around and seeing how full the Sanctuary is
and how quiet it is becoming. Yizkor’s importance is
something that our parents and grandparents ingrained in us
when we were kids. For many of us, Yizkor was probably
the climax of Yom Kippur. Sure, the Shul was packed all
day long, but by the time Yizkor came around, everybody
was there, and everybody became very serious and somber.
265
As children, perhaps we felt that there was something
mysterious about this service that drew so many people.
There is no real mystery. Yizkor means “may God
remember.” That is what we are here to do today. We are
here to remember our loved ones who are no longer with us
on this earth and to think about their relevance and
importance and influence in shaping our lives. Jewish
tradition allows us to mourn privately and publicly. We
mourn publicly, together as one community and then we
pray privately, spending this time in our prayers honoring
the people who we loved and remember were near and dear
to us for so many reasons. We reflect on what our parents
and grandparents, brothers and sisters, husbands and wives
and sons and daughters have taught us and how they have
helped us to become the people that we are.
266
Sometimes, life gives you an opportunity to re-live
those lessons. Just a few weeks ago, our family was
fortunate to attend the 100th birthday celebration of my
great uncle, my grandfather’s brother, in Lima, Ohio. We
expected to hear the same old family tales. But my uncle,
sharp as a tack, shared stories about the family and the
family business that even my father had never heard or
forgotten. And he gave us a new appreciation of the love
and respect we have for family.
But you know that, because you are here today to
remember, honor and respect your own loved ones. We
honor those who came before us by the way we live our
lives. The way we raise, nurture and educate our children,
the way we work in our chosen occupations, the way we
relate to our spouses and friends, the way we contribute to
the community are all lessons we have learned from our
267
parents and grandparents and are tributes to their spirit.
We have come to realize the importance and significance of
the prayer that you will recognize. It says: “Praised are
you, Adonai, whose word brings the evening dusk. You
open the gates of dawn with wisdom, change the day’s
divisions with understanding, set the succession of season
and arrange the stars in the sky according to your will.”
We gather this morning to accept God’s will, and to note
with sorrow the passing of some of the stars which have
reached the end of their course. We have come to
remember and to honor those who have departed this
world. Like the light of a star which travels across the
vastness of space, even after the star is gone, the light of
their lives continues to illuminate our lives and will do so
as long as their memory lingers in our hearts.
268
It is in their spirit that we make tzedakah. Originally,
Yizkor’s primary purpose was to remember the deceased
by giving to charity on the theory that the good deeds of the
survivors elevated the souls of those who had departed. It
also enhanced the chances for personal atonement by doing
a deed of loving kindness. Today, we make contributions
each time we gather for a Yizkor service, and in fact, each
time we observe a yarzheit, in tribute to our loved ones, to
honor their memory, to honor their deeds.
On Rosh Hashanah I spoke about Beth Ahm Israel and
its relevance in our lives. I spoke about the need to
increase your commitment to your Synagogue so that we
could continue to provide the services that are so important
to all of us in this community. Those needs haven’t
changed in one week. Well, yes they have. We had to
install two new air conditioning units, one in this building
269
the day before Rosh Hashanah and one is currently being
installed in the School building at an un-budgeted total cost
in excess of $26,000. But that is not what today is about.
That is not what we are thinking about at this precise
moment. We are asking God to remember. We are asking
God to honor. We are remembering and we are honoring.
And after our time with our thoughts and prayers, I ask you
to honor those you hold dearly and close to your hearts
with a special tribute. Pledge your gift of tzedakah in their
name for this is the highest honor you can do for them.
Shabbat Shalom, Good Yon Tov.
270
Jonathan Brody
Congregation Beth Israel
Andover MA
bethisraelmv.org
140 members
Rabbi, Cantor, Congregation
I was given advice that all presidents’ High Holiday speeches are supposed to
start with a joke, so I must oblige. Actually the best advice I got was that the
secret of a good speech is to have a good beginning and great end; and to have
the two as close together as possible……But that isn’t going to be the case
today.
One night the President was working late at the Synagogue trying to figure out all
the money problems the shul was having. While he was in the office a Genie
appeared and said, “Mister President as a reward for being elected president I
will grant you one wish. It can be anything.” Well the President thought for a
moment and took out a map of the Middle East and pointed to a spot. He said,
“Genie do you see this land of Israel; my wish would be that Israel would have
lasting peace. No more war, no more terrorist attacks and no more conflicts
between Israel and the rest of the world.“
The Genie took a step back and said "I don't know. The Middle East has been at
war for 100's and 100's of years. Many great Genies before me have tried to
grant peace in the Middle East and could not. To be honest, I am not that great
of a Genie. You will need to think of something else.” Well the President thought
for a moment and looked down at all the files he was working on. Membership
dues were not paid up, tuition and Kol Nidre pledges were not paid up and the
money going out far exceeded the money coming in. The President said, “Genie,
my wish then is to have all of the Temple receivables paid up and that the shul
can have a balanced budget.”
The genie looked down at all the files, saw all the problems and pondered for a
moment and then said "On second thought let me see that Middle East Map
again."
Do any of you have problems picking out socks to wear each morning? I have
the most frustrating time trying to figure out my black socks from my blue socks.
On a typical morning I’ll grab 5 dark pairs from my drawer and bring them up to a
lamp. I will study them for 30 seconds and I will narrow it down to a two pairs.
271
Than I move on to another lamp just to make sure I have found the blue ones
that I need today and not the black ones. I know many of you must have this
problem. I can’t be the only one. Admit it. In addition, several of the patterns
that I have; I actually have in both colors, just to make my life more difficult. And
sometimes, Ellen rolls a black one and a blue one together I think just to drive me
crazy. This goes on day after day, week after week and yet there still will be
days when I will get to the office, put my legs up on my desk and notice that I
have the wrong color socks on to match my clothes or worse one of each color.
So…why am I talking about socks? I’m up here, in front of 500 people, my first
opportunity to address the congregation as its new president, and I’m talking
about socks and matching the right colors? Well a wise person I know
suggested that socks would make a great analogy for the dilemma that most of
us face with regard to our religion, namely Conservative Judaism. How do we
match who we are as a person with a religion that has many different variations,
reform, conservative, orthodox, reconstructionist and within each one a countless
range of beliefs, practices and doctrines.
Why are you here? I don’t mean existentially. I mean why are you here in
services today rather than at work..or down the street at Temple Emanuel or at
Chabad? Why are you at Congregation Beth Israel’s High Holiday services?
After listening to me talk about my socks, you probably are asking yourself that
very question. But seriously, have you ever thought about it? If so, did you
come up with an answer?
Many of you consider yourself a Conservative Jew. You obviously found some
match between Conservative Judaism and yourself and not only for yourself, but
that match had to work for your spouse and your children as well. Others of you,
like the pair of socks that are close in color but not quite the perfect match, are
not quite sure what it means to be a Conservative Jew. What is it that led you to
make a very personal decision to join a conservative synagogue? That is what
we need to understand, explore and nurture. That matching process is the key to
our future and that of the conservative movement.
A survey was taken a couple of years ago. It was sent to Jewish people across
the country and one of the questions on the survey was “Who or what are you
affiliated with?” and the responses were very interesting. The people who
responded, who considered themselves reform Jews, said just that. They
answered the question on the survey by saying that they were with the reform
movement. The people who responded who considered themselves orthodox,
answered the question by saying they were with the Orthodox movement,
sometimes it was Lubuvitch or Chabbad, but basically it was the group or
movement that they were affiliated with. How do you think the conservative Jews
responded? The majority of them answered the survey by saying, Congregation
Emeth or Beth Israel or Emanual. The conservative Jews were the only ones
272
that predominantly answered the question by listing out their specific shul they
belonged to. What does that tell us? What does that mean?
United Synagogue tried something in recent years that they have never done
before. They attempted to document what they believe it means to be an ideal
conservative Jew. Not theologically, but behaviorally. The conservative
movement never did this before because they never had to. They figured the
reform Jews knew who they were and they were on one side of the spectrum and
the orthodox surely knew who they were and they were on the other side of the
spectrum and the conservatives were everyone in between. Surely there was a
big in between. But the reform movement is getting bigger, the orthodox
movement is having a resurgence and the lines between us and both of them are
now getting greyer and murkier. So the conservative movement leadership
believed this was the time to actually document what it might mean to be a
conservative Jew. To try and give each of us something tangible to point to
when asked what is a conservative Jew.
They came up with 8 Tenets or doctrines, if you will. Some of them might
surprise you. Some of them might scare you. Let me discuss each of them and
then we will see what it all really means..
1. The ideal Conservative Jew supports a Conservative synagogue by
participating in its activities.
That seems like an easy one. Our shul provides us with many opportunities
to achieve this goal. CBI is bustling with activity on a daily basis. We have
well planned and organized school programs for not only the children, but
families as well. We have a very active adult education program which
seems to have at least one class going on a weekly basis. There is a
tremendously active Sisterhood and we will be starting up the Brotherhood
again very shortly. Of course, there are weekly Shabbat services and
wonderful holiday programs around Sukkot, Simchat Torah, Chanukah,
Purim, Passover and Shavuot geared for the entire family. Youth
programming for all ages is available, highlighted by our Kadima and USY
chapters. There are numerous committees that have ongoing meetings and
programs that offer an opportunity for everyone to become involved
regardless of time commitment restraints, skill set and level of experience.
This includes the fundraising committee, the social committee, the social
action committee, the school and youth committees, the house committee,
the membership committee, the ritual committee, the adult education
committee, a newly developed technology committee, and the one who that is
getting all of the attention now, the building committee, with its newly formed
interior design subcommittee. Clearly there is one, or more, that is right for
you. Find your match and make the most of it. It will certainly help the
synagogue and we need your help, but I also believe you will find it to be
273
meaningful and rewarding …and you should do it for yourself. Just as I said,
number 1 is easy to achieve.
2. The ideal Conservative Jew studies as a Conservative Jew a minimum
of one hour per week.
Now this one isn’t as easy and one that most of us probably fall short on, but
don’t be concerned. CBI offers a number of ways to formally achieve this
goal. We have weekly Saturday morning services which always include a
meaningful discussion by the Rabbi on the weekly parsha or a current event.
We have at least one Friday night service a month and holiday services
throughout the year that offer the opportunity to worship together and find
something new in the siddur or Chumash to learn from each time. As noted
in Tenet #1 we have a very active adult education program that allows each
of us to learn more about the prayers in the siddur, the Chumash, the Tanach,
the Hebrew language or even how to become an adult Bar or Bat Mitzvah.
We also offer monthly “lunch and learn” sessions. I would suggest that
participating in events from the social action committee and the views and
schmooze programs would also qualify. In addition, I would contend that the
words “studies as a Conservative Jew” does not mean that the material has to
be of Jewish nature. I think the act of taking almost any topic and honestly
trying to learn, educate yourself and expand your horizons would qualify to
meet this Tenet.
3. Employs learned Jewish values to guide behavior even if it conflicts
with personal feelings.
Jewish values can be placed on many things. On a high level we could
discuss topics like how Judaism views death, suicide, and abortion. There is
the Jewish position and then our personal feelings. But it also can relate to
how we, as Jews, make board decisions, how we treat people, our members,
and our employees and how we conduct ourselves in our business
transactions. Communal norms and values are important and that
sometimes we act according to those values even if we do something
different at home. A simple example of this is keeping Shabbat. People
make their own personal decisions on how they want to keep the spirit of
Shabbat. Some of us view at no differently than any other day and some of
our members try to avoid doing house work or going shopping or discussing
Temple business on Shabbat to try to make it special and different than a
weekday. However, when it comes to the synagogue we all put our cell
phones away and don’t purchase things for the synagogue on Shabbat or
carry goods to Shul on Shabbat. In this way we recognize the communal
value of strict Shabbat observance even if our personal observance isn’t there
yet.
274
4. The ideal Conservative Jew increases personal Jewish living out of
commitment and as a result of thought, by adding a minimum of three
new mitzvot a year.
To understand this Tenet we first must define what a mitzvah is. Mitzvah, or
the plural mitzvot, means commandment. There are 613 commandments in
the Torah, and the rabbis in their commentaries on the Torah derive more
mitzvot. The 613 commandments cover all areas of life, from our relationship
with G-d, to our relationships with family, neighbors, business associates and
the environment.
So meeting this Tenet is not as hard as it looks. There are many mitzvot that
we can add to our lives. During the High Holy Days we pause to contemplate
how to be better people and how to better our relationships with others. If we
improve ourselves in three different areas then we have fulfilled this Tenet. I
would suggest that many of you will actually accomplish this goal within this
week of the repentance and I commend you for it. Performing acts of human
kindness is part of most of our nature. It is not something we contemplate for
very long and when the moment of decision comes we usually choose the
right path and the right thing to do. Here are just a few wonderful examples of
this from members in our shul:
-
Mark Lang and Terry Fetters, who were recently selected as our CBI
volunteers of the year for a long list of important work they do for us
Our Rabbi, who spent several days down in New Orleans helping to
rebuild the community,
Adele Stavis was honored by the Women’s League of Conservative
Judaism with the Light of Torah Award for her years of service
Sam Poulten being honored by the Merrimack Valley Catholic
Charities for all the work that he does throughout the valley
And there are countless other examples sitting all around you today
Clearly this Tenet is one that most of us accomplish as a matter of course in
our daily lives.
5. The ideal Conservative Jew employs the value of Tikun Olam – to help
the world’s continual repair.
Our social action committee is very active.
-
They made Easter baskets and distributed them to the needy back in
April
They annually have a food collection during Yom Kippur and also
distribute that to the needy. I encourage each of you to bring a box or
can of non-perishable food next week to help in this endeavor.
275
-
They established the CBI recycling program and have programs in
place to encourage members to switch to energy efficient light bulbs
Our USY and other members of our community annually do the walk
for hunger and various other walk-a-thons and bowl-a-thons and
every a-thon you can imagine each year.
In fact at the Spring convention, our USY chapter won the Social Action
Chapter of Excellence Award and the Highest Tikun Olam Contribution
Award in the region. These are our next leaders. They are setting an
example for the rest of us to follow.
So I believe that each of you, in your own way, is trying to make a difference
in this world. Trying to make it a better place. Trying to give back and be
thankful for all that we have today.
Tenet #5, therefore, is also an easy one for each and every one of you to
meet.
6. The ideal Conservative Jew makes decisions about Jewish behavior
after considering effect on Klal Israel, the Jewish community.
This is an interesting one. How many of you when you read the newspaper
or listen to the news and hear of someone arrested or suspected of doing
something heinous consciously think about the name of the person involved
and say to yourself, “That person is Jewish”? I do it all the time. How about
when you hear about some vandalism or crime to a church or public building
or official? Do you, as I do, say to yourself, “I hope to God the person who
did this isn’t Jewish.” There is no doubt that anti-Semitism is real and it is
statistically on the rise. Anything we do poorly and publicly as an individual,
unfortunately also reflects poorly on all of us as a Jewish community. I don’t
think this applies to any other religion or group as much as it does to us.
Therefore we need to think about this in our actions. We need to realize that
the actions we take impact not only ourselves and our family, but often the
Jewish community that we are apart of. It may not be right, but this is the
reality. If each of you consciously thinks about the possible implications of
your actions, you might actually decide on a different course. This
comprehension, this extra bit of thinking is all that it takes to pass the hurdle
of Tenet #6.
7. The ideal Conservative Jew increases ties and connections to Israel.
By a show of hands, how many of you have actually been to Israel? Keep
your hands up. How many of you that haven’t been there, have a desire to
go there at some point during your life? {Comment on the number of hands}
Please note that this Tenet doesn’t specifically say that every Jew should try
276
and visit or make aliyah to Israel, it simply states that there needs to be a
continual effort to increase ties and connection to the country. However, I
would offer to you that visiting the land will be like no other experience you
have ever had. If you really want to make a meaningful difference to your
life make this a priority and a goal that you set for yourself.
There are many programs available to help each of us get there. Did you
know that United Synagogue has a program called Birthright Israel? This
program provides a FREE trip to Israel for any Jewish young adult between
the ages of 18 and 26 who has never before traveled to Israel on a peer
educational program. This is a program that members of our shul have
participated in, but that we haven’t taken full advantage of in our community.
Over the past years, Carla Moverman, Leah Rubin and Rachel Tritter have
all experienced Israel on this program. If you think this might be a great
opportunity for someone in your family, please ask the Rabbi or myself for
more information.
In addition, USY offers a tremendous 6 week summer experience for our
high school children called USY Pilgrimage. CBI has not had anyone go on
Pilgrimage in recent years. As a Pilgrimage alum, I can attest that this trip
would likely be the most memorable trip your child will ever have in his or
her life…Period.
Finally, as many of you know, Rabbi Schweber attempted to have a
community trip to Israel this past winter. Unfortunately, that particular trip
did not happen, but rest assured that there will be another opportunity for a
CBI community family trip to visit Israel down the road. Think about what
this trip would mean to you and your family and be ready to step up and
commit to a truly wonderful experience when the next opportunity arises.
8. The ideal Conservative Jew studies to increase his or her knowledge
of Hebrew.
This may be the most difficult one for each of us to accomplish. Most of us
don’t have a lot of opportunity to learn Hebrew and have fewer opportunities
to practice or use what we know. Again through our Adult Education
program, CBI offers an opportunity to start learning at a beginner level or
build on what you already know through intermediate level classes. I
strongly suggest that you try a class to see if it might be something new and
exciting that you really enjoy. In today’s modern world, you can learn
Hebrew through books on tape on your way to work or even download
classes to your iPOD and improve your knowledge while you’re working out
at the gym.
277
So these are the 8 Tenets that describe an ideal Conservative Jew. What
do you think? Have you already accomplished all of them or do they seem
impossible to achieve?
I want you to each take a moment with me now as we visualize a scene.
I would ask each of you to close your eyes. You are standing in a room. It
is a little dark in the room and there is a slight chill. You notice that in the
corner of the room there looks to be a grand staircase leading up to the next
floor. As you look up the staircase you see a shining light off in the
distance. It is an inviting light, full of warmth and a sense of wonderment.
You are emotionally attracted to the light as if it were calling out to you.
As you walk closer to the stairs, you realize that they are not stairs at all, but
rather a ramp that gently inclines to the next level. Why a ramp instead of
stairs? Because to reach that light, you are not required to take uniform
steps. You can take little steps, you can shuffle your feet, you can take
giant strides or you can just hang on a take a little breather whenever you
need to.
Honestly, very few here have already met those 8 doctrines I just discussed,
but I submit to you that a conservative Jew is one who is somewhere on that
ramp and has the desire and will to inch their way up towards that shining
light. I ask each of you to ask yourself; Why are you here today? Why do
you call yourself a conservative Jew?....and then join me in moving yourself
forward up that ramp in whatever way and at whatever pace that makes
sense for you. In your own good time, you will reach that light. That sense
of completeness that you are where you belong.
You can open your eyes now.
Throughout tomorrow and at the beginning of the Kol Nidre service next week,
we will hear from fellow members who will answer the question of why they are
here. I encourage you to listen carefully to their words, to try and make that
connection, to try and make that match like my color coordinated socks. The
match that is right for you, which place you and your family firmly on that ramp
connecting you with CBI and Conservative Judaism.
Now you will notice that the scene we just envisioned included a room, but the
room needs to be part of a building. A solid foundation needs to surround us. It
needs to provide for the means to allow all that I have just discussed to a be a
reality. I now invite our building committee co-chairs, Howie Spector and Sam
Poulten to update all of us on our new wonderful building that will be the
foundation for each of you to reach that light for many many years to come.
Thank You and L’Shana Tovah
278
Arthur Glauberman
Shaarei Tikvah (175)
Scarsdale, NY www.shaareitikvah.org
Members,……… Friends……. welcome to what we hope will be our final
Kol Nidre & Yom Kipper Service at the Solomon Schecter Upper School.
It has been a great honor to serve as your president for these last two years.
As I start my second and final 2 year term, we have two construction
projects going on simultaneously… The first is the beautiful new building
being built on 46 Fox Meadow Road by our architects and engineers….
The second project is more critical. It is an ongoing and never ending
building project…..the construction of our spiritual community.
Tonight I want to share with you a set of blueprints for the continued
construction of our spiritual home. And while this may not be a typical Kol
Nidre Appeal..I am going to appeal to you to think of how each of us can fit
Shaarei Tikvah into our very hectic and busy daily lives.
A few months ago I received a letter from a friend of mine, Rabbi Martin
Cohen, who incidentally is related to our members, Nicole and Eric
Goloboff .Rabbi Cohen had gone to see the King Tut exhibit at the Franklin
Institute in Philadelphia. He describes his reaction to seeing a wooden box
that might have been 3500 years old and bore a resemblance to what the
Holy Ark might have looked like… and that the actual thing existed
precisely in the days of Moses and Aaron..
He says
... It's easy to think of the ancient Israelites as basically alone in the world,
but nothing could be further from the truth: they lived in the middle of a
teeming universe filled with all sorts of peoples who came from dozens of
different lands, who spoke dozens (if not hundreds) of other languages, who
worshiped hundreds of different gods …. Almost none of the peoples
mentioned in the Bible still exist today as they did then, or even at all. But
we, somehow, keep on shlepping forward from generation to generation,
tottering (always) on the brink of assimilation and collapse, but never
actually succumbing to what any rational outsider would describe as
279
irresistible forces….: the nations of antiquity that thought they were
indestructible all eventually vanished, …while.. we, who were and remain
so wholly obsessed with the fear that we might disappear from the stage of
history at any moment——we have somehow managed not only not to
vanish, but to move forward through history as though God in heaven
were watching over us. …..
And here we are tonight…a growing community who will be celebrating our
High Holiday services in September of 2008 on 46 Fox Meadow Road… we
are not vanishing , we are growing and building not just a beautiful physical
structure to serve our community,…but a spiritual community, that will
thrive in our new structure.
On Rosh Hashanah Rabbi Fine gave everyone an assignment…What brings
you to services…
Just by thinking about his question and attempting to answer …you are
taking a step into the “SPIRITUAL ZONE” .
Let’s think of this sacred space as our spiritual construction zone. You won’t
need hard hats or materials that can be found in steel mills or the quarry…
but in you’re your hearts and your minds, and feet. We need everyone’s
physical presence to make our spiritual building project succeed!
My definition of spirituality is different from yours..but to me it clearly has a
great deal with being here with you …whether it is in this converted gym on
the High Holidays or sitting in our present Sanctuary on Fox Meadow
Rd..or (on rare occasions) being in a really good bakery…when you can
breath in the flavors of all those wonderful breads……(or more frequently..)
listening to Ronit or one of our wonderful teachers inspiring our children in
the Anna & Louis Shereff Religious School. Or being in synagogue and
listening to one of our members chanting a Haftorah for the first time in their
adult lives
I find spirituality in reaching out and trying to find ways that we can learn
together and become more connected to Judaism…and to each other.
Over the last few years we have seen members who used to sit as bystanders,
who have become active as leaders and pillars of our morning and evening
services…they have learned from Cantor Cohen’s classes how to read trope
280
and lead services. And they have participated in Neil Kuttner’s learner
services and participated in morning minyan.
For example, Mort & Jean Hertz went with us on our first trip to Israel two
years ago. Then they became regulars at services, enchanted with the joys of
participating in our Shabbat and morning minyans. …and over the last
year…Mort & Jean have chanted different Haftorahs collectively over 8
times! Jean chanted her first Haftorah ever ..last summer..and Mort after
chanting his Bar Mitzvah Haftorah last summer …learned the trope with
Cantor Cohen and now has the potential of a second career as one of our
Cantors!
Or Sarah Kellner, who celebrated her Bat Mitzvah a year and a few months
ago – and has read Torah and Haftorah several times since, and tomorrow
will be chanting the story of Jonah…when Sarah leads the Maftir service
And me…it takes me a year to prepare for chanting my Bar Mtizvah
Haftorah…I have tutors on call and need at least 6 months to prepare for my
annual chanting…We are all different and have different skills and anxieties
about what we can’t do…but while we put so much emphasis on having our
children go through the process of learning their haftorah portions…it really
can be much more meaningful when we study and chant as adults in the
community. …and it is a great way of teaching our children that the learning
shouldn’t stop when we turn 13!
----------------------What makes a person go from sitting in the back of the room and
occasionally coming to services to becoming smitten with the desire to
become an active participant?
What skills does a person need to work on a spiritual construction site?
There are different tools needed for different tasks and whether you
volunteer to carry the spiritual hammer or the spiritual caulking, the jobs are
many to create the framework for a lasting spiritual community.
--- Maybe you help us build our spiritual community by organizing or
participating in a social action program.
---Maybe you can us build it by giving someone a call whom you haven’t
seen for a while at Hebrew school or at services.
281
- Maybe you can help by attending a class and expanding your knowledge.
- or volunteering to give a Dvar Torah when the Rabbi is away – or leading
a lunch and learn on a subject that interests you.
- Maybe you can organize a program for our sisterhood or brotherhood
- Maybe you can host a dinner for our progressive dinner or sponsor a
Kiddush.
- Maybe you can start this Sunday by helping our Brotherhood build our
Sukkah
Or maybe there is something you can do that I would never even have
thought of. For example, last year Eli Hezi, a new member of our
community donated a Digital sign-board.. that you see in the lower level of
our shul. Eli programmed the “sign board” & taught Melanie how to update
and download photos, so we can have the latest news of what is happening
in our community. Just like Eli did, we welcome your new ideas that will
help our community.
Ten years ago, I joined ST because I was content to be a 3
..sometimes 2 …day a year Jew and I was thrilled that I would be
able to go away every weekend…no Hebrew school on Sundays!
Then my wonderful wife..came up with a plan …a gift for me..Judy
suggested that I should choose one morning and go to minyan…I
was freed from the chores of getting my two young daughters out of
bed ….breakfast on the table and ready for school …Judy to the
train and me to work…
I could walk out of the house at 6:45…and have Thursday mornings
off!
This gift…my ticket to freedom of the responsibilities of daddyhood…brought me into the world of getting wrapped in the spiritual
warmth of the morning minyan services……
I am not the same person I was then…I’ve aged…in many
ways…my hearing is worse..my knees don’t work… and I have
expanded my appreciation of what it means to be a part of our Jewish
community.
 It started with those morning minyans
 Then I found myself coming on Shabbat
282
 Then I tasted a stale cookie a the Kiddush and found my
calling…I volunteered to help with the Kiddush committee
 Then I became the kiddush king..
 As a result of my relationship with Reverend Kaplan, and our
plan to honor him, I helped organize the Rev Kaplan
Fund..which led me to meet Rabbi Charles Simon ..who
encouraged me to get involved in 2003 with the Keruv
movement.
 We created a keruv committee at ST and held sessions to
make our interfaith couples and those whose children were
intermarried to feel more comfortable here in our community..
 This led to changing our own membership policies and now in
my spare time, I have been helping synagogues around the
country set up similar programs in their communities.
 Last November I went to Israel..with Rabbi Fine on a mission of
learning about how difficult it is to be a conservative Jew in
Israel...this was one of the greatest learning experiences of my
adult life..And woke me up to the needs of being mindful of how
we at ST had a responsibility to be more supportive of our
brothers and sisters in Israel…
 These are just a few examples of my personal “Jewish Journey
that only began when Judy offered me ..what I thought was
going to be a break form my “normal morning routine…” We all
have opportunities to get a little more involved…it may start
with eating a stale cookie and then lead to greater spiritual
involvement! Who knows what will inspire each of you to take
what may be a little step now…to begin to increase your
involvement with our Shaarei Tikvah community…
I am excited about what we have the potential to do together..what
we have already accomplished.
We have a lot more we want to do.
 Last year, we started adding more music to our Friday night
services – instrumental music before the dawn of Shabbat. We
want to build on that to make our services joyous and musical
and more meaningful to everyone.
283
 We are trying to build a stronger program for our families with
preschool children. We’ve started with our wonderful monthly
Sunday morning Tikvah Tots program that Wendy Hollander is
leading…and this year we hope to build a successful Shabbat
program for young families.
 We are building our Youth program – under the leadership of
Eric Bassin - so our teenagers can participate and feel part of
our community.
 As I mentioned last week, we are trying to be more committed
and organized in the way that we reach out to the homebound
in our community
 And next year, our Hebrew school principal, Ronit Razinovsky
will be leading a trip to Israel. As those of us who have gone on
previous trips will tell you, this is a wonderful way for you to
grow spiritually … to discover where we came from and to
experience the wonders of modern Israel…while at the same
time strengthening friendships with others in our community.
Tonight I am asking you to be generous with your time, your talents
and your energy. So that Shaarei Tikvah can thrive, and grow and do
more than shlep forward.
Of course this is a Kol Nidre appeal, so I must also ask you to be
generous and help us raise the funds we need. Yes we are building
your spiritual center….but it needs lights, and electricity, and fuel oil,
and employees to make it stand.
In closing I want to leave with you with a quote from ..
Rabbi Ed Feinstein, at Valley Beth Shalom in Encino, California, and
an Instructor at the Ziegler Rabbinical School of the University of
Judaism:
"What is a synagogue? It is a model of the world as we would have
it. It is an example we set before our children of Jewish ideals
brought
brought
into
life.
Here, within the walls of this institution, we are challenged to produce
284
a reality that embodies, incarnates those ideals. And succeed or fail,
our children are watching. Create a synagogue that is loving, warm
and
filled
with
life, and they will know that our promises are true. Fail, and they will
know that as well.
The stakes are that high. The time is short. And the work is great.
Build Me a Holy place, offers God, and I will dwell among you."
Thank you
Rosh Hashanah Speech 2007
Rosh Hashanah 9-13-07
Welcome to our final Rosh Hashanah Services at the Solomon Schecter Upper School.
There is still a great deal of work that needs to be done but as we can see by the almost
daily changes in our new building, we are confident that we will be moving into our new
synagogue, social hall and the new Anna & Louis Shereff Religious School in the spring
of 2008.
285
It is very exciting to be apart of a small “Hamish” community that has embarked on this
huge undertaking..and I am confident that we will raise the funds needed to complete the
project and be celebrating our HH services in our new facility next year.
Over the last two years as president, I have changed.. in my thinking of what is important
for our community ..to embrace as we continually reassess how we can help our
community grow....
And this morning, I want to focus our attention on a few of the members of our
community who are physically not able to attend services with us today.
….. …Vivian and Norman Z. …they called Melanie on Monday and told her that for the
first time in their lives, they did not have the energy to come to our High Holiday
services. Melanie emailed me, worried since when she offered to arrange transportation,
they still declined... Norman has begun to have a great deal of difficulty walking. His
knees are arthritic and his eye sights is suffering. And on Sunday, they made an
executive decision, that for the first time in their lives, they would not be attending High
Holiday services.
When I called them, I realized that for Vivian and Norman, the joys of being here
together with our ST community were not worth the pain and suffering of physically
traveling and then sitting (and standing) through the services.
286
Our community is made up of many younger families who are changing the make up of
our growing congregation. However we have a very eclectic membership and many of
our older and senior members have been generous in their time and financial support of
our predecessor congregations as well as promoting and forging ahead with the merger
that led to the creation and founding of Shaarei Tikvah, are now finding themselves
struggling to attend services as well as our many synagogue events….
I am asking all of you, to think of ways that we as a community can reach out and make
our homebound members feel apart of our community.
One very simple and very effective method is to pick up our telephones, .. and using our
face-book membership directory.. call a few members …just to wish each other a happy
new year and see what we can do …for each other to make all of our members feel a little
closer connected to our very special community.
Rabbi Fine and Cantor Cohen are reaching out and calling members who are not able to
attend services , but that is not enough.
I know that everyone in the synagogue received a New Year’s greeting card from the
children in our Hebrew school……my family received a lovely letter from Brett
Pogostin … Ronit organized this “New years Card –Letter writing project..on the first
day of Hebrew School ..what greater message to give our children than to have the
287
mizvah of giving of themselves and wishing all of our members a healthy and a happy
new year..
And knowing that many of our elderly members received these loving handwritten
notes.. Written with compassion and sincerity from our children’s hearts....will bring
some comfort to those members who are home, unable to attend services with us today.
I stand here today and ask all of you to make a pledge…not of writing a check..but for
taking a few moments in your busy lives and reaching out to one or two members of our
community who would love to receive a personal HH greeting …and these calls do not
have to be limited to one week of the year..
I like to call/email members of our community…I don’t differentiate between ages..I just
like to check in and see how we are doing….you don’t have to have a reason..except
one….
We are building something…something even more meaningful and lasting that we can
pass on to our children and their children..the importance of taking care of our loved
ones…members of our extended community ..our friends here in our ST community…
How do we build community? We have to work together to answer that question, and
while it I am thrilled to be welcoming new members who have recently joined and the
many guests who are with us ..here..for services, I feel that we have to do some serious
brainstorming to do … about ways to keep all of our members connected to the heart beat
of our Shaarei Tikvah community.
L’Shanna Tovah,
288
Arthur Harrow
Beth El, Richmond, Virginia (700)
Rosh Hashanah Speech
Good yontiff! Let me begin with Pirke Avot Chapter 3 verse 20:
Hoo hayah omeyr:
And he [Rabbi Akiva] used to say:
Hakole hatoon b'ayravohn oom'tzoodah f'roosah al kohl
hachayeem.
Everything is given on pledge, and a net is spread for all the living.
Hechanoot p'toochah v'hatehnvahnee makeef v'hapeenkays
patooach ,
The shop is open, and the dealer gives credit, and the ledger lies open,
v'hahyahd kohtahveht v'chahl harohtzeh lilvoht yavoh
and the hand writes, and whosoever wishes to borrow may come and borrow
v'yihlveh v'hahgahbaheem mahchazeereem tahdeer b'chahl
yom v'nihfraheem mihn hahahdahm meedahtoh v'shehloh
mihdahtoh
but the collectors regularly make their daily round and exact payment from
man, whether he be content or not
v'yaysh lahhem al mah sheyihsmehchoo
and they have that whereon they can rely in their demand;
v'hahdeen deen emet
and the judgment is a judgment of truth.
v'hakohl m'tookahn lihseoodah .
And everything is prepared for the feast.
289
What a marvelous analogy this is! Life is like a shop, where we may pick
and choose from the merchandise. No cash is required up front, and we may
partake of the vast marvels in the store. But all the while the bookkeepers are
keeping track of our balances; for everything given to us by God imposes an
obligation upon us. We may limit our debt by living a life of moderation, or
we may run up the tab by lack of restraint. The accounting system is superb;
all the checks and balances insure that no errors are made. And the audit
comes eventually. A splendid feast and suitable reward awaits those who
have discharged their debts honorably.
Today is the day of the annual audit and we are called on to explain our
balance sheets; how do we know this? As in any debt analysis, the Creditors
are here to assist us in giving an accounting; and we await the report.
Fortunately, the Almighty uses high quality software [I suspect he has a
Macintosh], and all tallies are done by the time the Shofar is blown. No one
may influence the auditor, and no one may question the records. We may
only hope that when the Lord looks at the bottom line, he looks at more than
the quarterly projections.
I will defer any further theological analogies to our learned clergy; but if you
will indulge me, I wish to pursue this tortured metaphor just a little farther.
For not only may we picture life as a shop where all is available, but our
congregation may be seen this way as well. Let me tell you some of what
Beth-El offers.
First of all, we continue to offer religious services in accordance with the
Conservative Movement. Our fully egalitarian services meet twice daily in
accordance with our tradition, open to all who wish to pray or must say
Kaddish. Rabbi Creditor and Cantor Cohen have participated in numerous
weddings, brises, baby namings, aufrufs, conversions, and unfortunately
funerals and shiva minyans.
What is new in terms of ritual at Beth-El? I am pleased to tell you that we
hope to have our mikveh functional and in use by the end of the calendar
year. The ritual bath is not the sole province of the Orthodox; the intense
spiritual experience of immersion is appropriate for conversion, preparation
for weddings, holidays, or Shabbat; or as a spiritual adjunct to physical
healing. The only ritual bath in the region which will be open to any,
290
regardless of their branch of Judaism, will add to our stature as the major
center of Jewish life and culture in Central Virginia.
The synagogue is Beit HaSefer, a house of learning. Our adult education
programs expand our awareness of Jewish life and culture as well as
continuing to reduce the ignorance regarding our history of those in whose
midst we dwell. We have a well developed program including studies in
Basic Judaism, Talmud, and Tanakh. Our Book Discussion group explores
our modern literature. The Adult Education lecture and debate series’ open
our minds to controversies and other views which we must comprehend in
order to better understand ourselves and our own opinions. The Film Series
uses the medium of the motion picture to enlighten, educate, and entertain
us. Our library provides a reference source unmatched in our region. The
Judaic Art Gallery inspires us with the artist’s imagination and vision. All of
these services are available to any who wish to partake.
And we not only boast of a magnificent new physical plant for our school,
we also welcome our new Education Director, Judy Rubin, whose extensive
training and experience has allowed her, even in the short time she has been
here, to take our outstanding school program and prepare it to reach for the
stars. I want to take this opportunity to thank every one of the people
involved in the intense and difficult process of finding her; the long hours
and donation of personal time and services were well worth it and we stand
in your debt.
Judaism teaches us that we must participate in the repair of the world. We
now can honestly say that we are doing this by having established a Tikkun
Olam committee, which is already planning to reach out to Jewish
communities in hard straits, as well as to play a role in assisting members of
our own community in times of difficulty. You will find available to you at
these services a brochure fully describing the activities of this committee, as
well as information as to how you may help participate in this holy
commitment.
While Beth-El has always had a religious school, for some time we have had
a paucity of activities and services for those below school age. We have felt
a need to expand our early childhood services beyond the minimal provision
of high holy day babysitting. At this time we provide a monthly Tot Shabbat
service, where children five and under can begin to learn the basics of our
weekly worship and daily prayers. We have dedicated the second floor of the
291
sanctuary to the use of families with small children, so that they can move
from services into a play area and back again, depending on the needs of the
children. A safety barrier at the front of the balcony and baby gates at the top
of the stairs make this a safe venue to take your children who can appreciate
services but only in small quantities at a time. And we will initiate this year
weekly Saturday babysitting services so that families with children who
cannot be in services at all do not have to forgo the opportunity to pray.
We have spent a great deal of time this past year looking at how Beth-El
works. What many members of our congregation do not see is that our
operation is no longer small. The office handles over 1600 telephone calls
per month; the bookkeeping systems must be able to handle the transactions
involved in an operating budget approaching one million dollars a year. This
represents significant growth over the last few years. We have been able to
do a creditable job trying to keep up, but the need to modernize our
equipment and expand our staff could no longer be avoided. We now can
depend on our fully modern computer systems and our expanded staff which
handles accounting, publications, and clerical work for our professionals, as
well as the scheduling of simchas and synagogue activities that must be done
efficiently if we are to be able to function at all. We thank our office staff,
old and new, for their hard work.
And no organization this size could function on the relatively low dues here
without volunteers. Every activity, even when staffed by our professionals
and employees, could not happen without the generous donation of time by
the volunteers. Whether working on specific projects, participating in
committee work, coming to board meetings, or being at the highest level of
leadership, nothing would get done without volunteers.
There are four very special groups of volunteers I want to recognize today.
The Men’s Club is a very active group which is dedicated to supporting our
school. Their donation of time, labor, and resources are invaluable, and I
thank them and remind everyone to participate in Men’s Club activities;
everything you will do will come back to help us.
The Chevra Kaddisha, which was recognized at the last Annual Meeting,
cannot be thanked enough. We do not often speak of their work, for reasons
which I think are apparent; but they are always there at the difficult times
when we need them the most, and I thank them.
292
The Bingo workers come on a regular basis, in less than optimal working
conditions, and help raise money to support portions of our synagogue
program. I must tell you that bingo programs around the country are
withering on the vine for lack of workers. I salute the bingo volunteers who
come every week, and not only operate the games but navigate the legally
complex environment that the state regulations on gambling imposes upon
us.
Lastly, I want to recognize our Sisterhood. In the current culture where more
women are working outside the home and have more limited time,
Sisterhood chapters around the country are having difficulty; many chapters
are closing up shop due to an inability to recruit new members with the time
and interest to participate in the many things that Sisterhoods do, including
fund-raising and support of Synagogue and national Jewish activities. I am
pleased to tell you that our Sisterhood has found an innovative method to
reinvigorate itself by splitting into three clusters, each dedicated to a
different population. While it is too early to say for certain, everything
seems to indicate an increase in interest and participation, and new life for
Sisterhood. I applaud them for their courage in undertaking the always
painful and frequently controversial step of growth and change, and thank
them for everything they do for us.
As I have said, the lifeblood of the synagogue is the volunteer. Everyone has
a talent or interest, and we always want to meet people who want to give a
little time. Whether it’s serving on a committee [one meeting a month
doesn’t sound so bad, does it?], being involved with a special project
[meetings are more frequent, but hey, after that dinner-dance is over, you’re
free!] or serving on the Board [one meeting a month, a chance to see how
things work and to put your ideas on the table] there is a niche for everyone.
Please make a note of what you’re interested in and forward it to the office.
Carl will see that it gets to someone who knows how you can help.
And speaking of how you can help…I mentioned earlier that we run a fairly
efficient organization and that our dues [whether you wish to believe it or
not] are significantly lower than other comparable synagogues. I regularly
correspond with synagogue presidents who brag that they keep their dues as
low as $1500 per year PLUS $200 High Holy Day tickets. How have we
managed to keep dues so low and maintain the fiscal health of the
synagogue?
293
First of all, we have looked for economies wherever possible. Whether it’s
as complex a project as building a school building or as straightforward as
printing a brochure, we try to find the least expensive method of doing it
without sacrificing the quality we want. I stress the last sentence; we will not
sacrifice quality simply to get a cheap price; that is always more expensive
in the long run.
Secondly, we do have the Bingo project. Bingo contributes a significant
amount to our operating budget even though the State restricts the use of
gaming income to certain items such as salaries or capital improvements. By
our estimate, if Bingo disappeared and the cash reserves it has accumulated
were used up, your annual dues would increase by about $250 per
“membership unit.” Please keep that in mind if you are looking for
something to do on Monday mornings; Bingo is always looking for
dedicated workers who take the responsibility seriously.
Beth-El does have other fund-raising projects, such as the Men’s Club
Casino Night, the Hanukkah events we have had in the past, and special
events such as the Debbie Friedman concerts. These are worthy projects
which also help keep costs down, and we appreciate your participation in as
many of these fund-raisers as possible.
We also appreciate outright donations. Whether cash or securities, every
donation is appreciated. If you wish, you may contact the office, the Rabbi,
the Cantor, Judy Rubin, or myself to ask if there is a specific project which
is on hold awaiting funding. Nothing is more welcome than this. I also thank
everyone who has responded to the second year of our High Holy Day NonDrive. This is the only mention you will hear of fundraising today; you have
been more than generous and earned the right to not be harangued during
such a solemn occasion. And for those of you who have not yet contributed,
I draw your attention to the inserts in your machzorim…need I say more?
What else do we have planned? Every store must have a long range plan,
whether it involves putting in a café, a self-service checkout, or [we can only
hope] expansion of the kosher section. Well, at Beth-El we are always
looking for new ways to enhance our value to you. As I have said, we have
been very busy establishing a program for children younger than school age.
We next need to focus on having something to offer singles and young
adults. We hope to increase the number and quality of our informational
294
resources; in addition to our booklet which explains the Shabbat service, we
need to develop similar educational information regarding holidays and lifecycle events such as weddings, new members to families, and bidding
farewell to our departed. The more we all can understand about what
Judaism says about our lives, the richer our lives will all be for it.
And while it has been said before, the need grows greater every day to
expand our Rabbinic staff. A synagogue with a fairly low level of activity,
both ritual and educational, can afford to have one hard-working rabbi. Most
synagogues with the range of activities we offer have had an assistant rabbi
when the membership reaches the 400 unit mark; we are at least double that.
And if you review the amount of b’nai Mitzvot, weddings, funerals, bris’s,
baby namings, conversions, hospital visits, shiva calls, classses taught,
counseling provided, requirements for community participation,
requirements for continuing education, and then allow time to participate in
a personal and family life, you will understand this need. A committee has
been established to look at the feasibility, affordability, and all other aspects
of this important step, and I hope to be able to report to you in the near
future that we can find a way to do what we must in this critical area. We
can no longer afford to say “let’s not consider this because we can’t afford
it;” we must say “we need this; how can we manage to afford it?”
Let me conclude with another mishnah from Pirkay Avot [Chapter 4, verse
3]:
Hoo haya omer,
Ben Azai would say,
Al tahee ben l’vahl adam
Do not despise any man
V’al tahee mahfleeg l’chal ravar
And do not deem anything unworthy of consideration
Sh’ayn l’cha aram sheayn lo shahah v’ayn l’chah ravar
sh’ayn lo makohm.
For there is no man who does not have his hour and no thing that does not
have it’s place.
295
Change and growth is always difficult and controversial; let us strive to
remember that everything is worthy of consideration.
On behalf of the synagogue leadership, the officers, the board and especially
on behalf of Judy, Hannah, and myself, I bid you L’Shanah Tovah
Tikateyvu, a good and happy year.
Arthur Harrow’s Yom Kippur Speech
Yom Kippur Remarks
Traditionally, this is the time for the President to come before the
congregation assembled today and present a “state of the synagogue” report. I
have, as you have learned by now, the greatest respect for tradition, and will
therefore tell you a story.
On a Yom Kippur, in a small town - so the story goes - two Jews left their
synagogue for a breath of fresh air [or so they said; the President was just
beginning to speak…]. They saw two other Jews coming out of the neighboring
congregation and heading for a restaurant. As you might imagine, an argument
ensued: "How can you eat on Yom Kippur?" the first two asked. "Judaism is
ethical monotheism” came the reply. “That means we believe in one God whom
we worship not by rituals, but by ethical conduct. We carry on our business with
honesty all year. So we need not bother fasting!" The pair of ethically
monotheistic Jews enter the restaurant, while the other two continue their walk.
Said one to the other: "What a couple of fools! For the sake of one meal, they’re
honest all year long!"
This story encapsulates two unfortunate fallacies.
296
The first is the assumption that moral rectitude obviates compliance with
ritual Mitzvot. Jews do not have an exclusive claim on morality. While personal
ethics are an absolute requirement of Judaism, adherence to ethics alone does
not make you Jewish. Observance of Shabbat, of Kashrut, of circumcision, of
Jewish prayer are the identifying signs of Jewishness. Rituals are our marks of
identity. Mitzvot, the sacred acts, help to create the distinctiveness without which
we cannot survive.
Different is the fallacy of the two observant Jews in the story. They fail to
realize that fasting on Yom Kippur, as well as the observance of the other ritual
laws, is nearly meaningless if it is not joined with the observance of the
commandments that govern interpersonal relationships, the "Mitzvot bein adam
lachavero - between one human being and their fellow." God forgives ritual sins
readily. However, sins that bring harm to others, that inflict insult or hurt on our
fellow human beings, require as a precondition for divine pardon the making of
apologies and amends, as well as forgiveness by the victims.
The Kashrut of the dollar we earn is not less important than the Kashrut of
the steak we eat.
I tend to visualize this interdependency in anatomical terms. Our rituals
are the skeleton of the Jewish people, and our social values are the flesh on that
skeleton. A skeleton without flesh cannot move, and will fall apart. Flesh without
a skeleton is, as any fan of the Steve McQueen classic “The Blob” can tell you is
a shapeless lump also incapable of action. Only when flesh and bone are
together in equal parts do you have a functioning body.
Now I know what each of you must be thinking at this point: what
does this have to do with the traditional President’s speech?
Beth-El, as a member of the Conservative movement, strives to provide
an environment where members are encouraged to follow as much ritual as they
are comfortable with, and to follow the Mitzvot of ethical behavior to the greatest
degree.
How are we accomplishing this?
297

We have, within the last year, replaced our Saturday morning Silverman
siddurim.
The Silverman prayerbooks served us well for many years, but had been
falling into great disrepair. When faced with the choice of obtaining new
copies of the Silverman books, we noted that the text had not been
revised since the original [pre-war] edition, the transliterations were
minimal, and the commentary was scanty. After much thought and debate,
we are now using the Siddur Sim Shalom. Those who have had the
opportunity to use this book have uniformly commented on the ease of
readability, the very nice commentaries including recognition of the
Holocaust and the State of Israel, and the addition of some prayers [such
as the Hymn of Glory] not present in the older book. We hope that more
members will come to a heightened understanding of our Saturday
morning service due to this change, and will find it more rewarding.

We are in the process of constructing our congregational Mikvah.
One of the rituals closely tied to Judaism is that of the ritual bath. We use
the Mikvah for entry into the covenant of Judaism for those who have
chosen to join us. As you are aware, political differences amongst the
different branches of Judaism have rendered the only Mikvah in Central
Virginia unavailable to us for this use. As a result, rabbis in the area
including Rabbi Creditor must devote a day to travel to either Norfolk or
Washington, the closest Mikvahs which are not barred to us. Providing a
Mikvah here will open up a range of ritual uses including but not restricted
to conversion to the wide Jewish community of Central Virginia, who have
come to see Beth-El as a center for education, and will now see us as a
center for ritual services for all the Jews of the area.

We have added a Children’s Gallery to the Balcony vestibule.
One of the barriers to younger families with small children participating
with us on a regular basis is the limited ability of the young children to sit
in services for much time. We do not want families to have to choose
between their children and religious services; in fact it is a good thing to
involve children in the synagogue as early as possible so they do come to
see Judaism as an important part of their lives. Therefore we have
dedicated the balcony area behind the doors as a Children’s Gallery. This
area is equipped with child safety gates at the top of the stairs, and is
stocked with games and toys. When children are calm, they may sit with
their parents in the balcony and enjoy services; the Gallery is available
298
just behind the doors on an as-needed basis to take them for a “time out”
as required. We have seen families starting to use this on a regular basis,
and can only hope that usage will grow.

We have initiated a Tot Shabbat program.
As I noted, it is clear that enthusiasm for and loyalty towards Judaism
correlate with childhood exposure. As a result, we have initiated what
appears to be the only program of it’s kind in the Richmond area, Tot
Shabbat. Modeled on similar programs in other congregations, this is not
merely a pre-school class for coloring pictures of Torahs; our children
under the age of 5 with their parents are taught basic concepts of what
Shabbat is, some of the simple introductory prayers, simple Shabbat
songs, and are treated to a Kiddush with songs and dance. It is our hope
that, through a regular program with home reinforcement, our children will
grow up comfortable with the idea of regular prayer and religious service.

We have completed our magnificent school building.
One of the limitations and constraints on our formal youth education
programs has been the physical plant. We have no complaint with the
quality of our faculty or curriculum, but crowded classrooms, narrow halls,
cramped library facilities, and primitive physical access can interfere with
even the best of schools. We now have a building to suit our children,
which gives us space to accept more students, provide more appropriate
classroom space, and even provide social areas such as a lounge. In
addition, we envision this building providing a center in the West End for
adult activities, both social and ritual.

We have formed a Social Action Committee.
One of the great gaps in Beth-El’s activities has been formal social action.
While we are justly proud to be the only congregation in Richmond which
participates in the CARITAS program for housing the homeless on a
regular basis, we have by and large not been on the cutting edge of
fulfilling the Mitzvot concerning charity in our own community. As of this
year, a Social Action Committee has been organized. This committee is
charged with developing programs ranging from providing services to our
New Americans, to working with food banks, participation in community
services to combat domestic abuse and violence, and raise community
awareness about personal responsibility for Tikkun Olam, repairing the
world. I would note at this early stage that the committee is devoted to
planning only, so that the programs developed will be well thought out and
practical. I will be happy to forward the names of anyone interested in
being involved to the appropriate chairs.
299

We are continuing and expanding our Adult Education Programs.
None of us ever reach the point where we know everything. In fact, the
more I learn, the more I realize I don’t know. Jewish education is a
process which does not stop at Bar Mitzvah, at Hebrew High School
graduation, at marriage, or even at installation as a Board Member or
officer. Our adult education programs, ranging from book discussions to
films of Jewish interest, to organized debates, speakers, presentations of
Judaic art, continue to enrich our members and other participants and
better enable us to participate both with Jewish ritual and social
obligations. This year we are participating in a national program to
encourage reading a chapter of Tanack daily with rabbinical review in
formal classes; we are adding classes with an increased emphasis on
learning Hebrew; and we are bringing back this fall an excellent forum for
learning prayer and ritual; another concert by Debbie Friedman. I urge you
all to take advantage of our nationally recognized Adult Education
programs.

We have reorganized our leadership structure to encourage more
participation.
In the past, being a chair of a synagogue committee meant more than
working on projects that interested you. It also meant a commitment to
participate in Board meetings and synagogue politics. As you might
imagine, committee chairs were sometimes hard to find. In the past, being
an officer at the vice-presidential level meant being responsible for
oversight of six to seven committees as well as making a commitment to
at least six years climbing the ladder to President and the exalted and
much-desired position of Past-President. As we saw over the last several
years, this frequently meant “no takers.” We have not had a full
complement of officers in several years, and one of the biggest barriers
was the unwritten but strongly implied rule of succession. At this year’s
annual meeting we approved constitutional revisions with several
implications. First of all, we replaced the Vice-President’s office, with it’s
commitment to succession and load of 6 significant committees with 4
Portfolio-bearing Vice-Presidents with no commitment to rise to higher
levels. Each Vice-President is now responsible for overseeing 3
committees and representing them at the Board, so that the committee
chair is not required to be present except at their own desire. This
distribution of the work load [especially as the synagogue activities
increase and the work of each committee goes up] is expected to make it
easier to recruit members to participate in governance, which is to
everyone’s benefit.
300

Our Sisterhood and Men’s Club continue to encourage service to the
Synagogue and to Judaism as a whole.
Our affiliated service organizations, Sisterhood and Men’s Club, have
always been a staunch support for us. Sisterhood raises funds to support
the Jewish Theological Seminary as well as supporting synagogue
projects such as kitchen renovation, provision of Oneg Shabbats, and
underwriting of our new school building. The Men’s Club provides a forum
for our members to support our school in various ways, as well as
providing a social and athletic outlet. These two organizations can always
be trusted to be there when Beth-El has needs.
In summary, I submit to you that Beth-El does and will continue to provide
more opportunities for participation in the Mitzvot of ritual observances as well as
the Mitzvot of social and ethical behavior. We will always have among us the two
pairs of Jews I talked about at first. There will always be those who see formal
religious services as the only important issue; there will always be those who see
“living a righteous life” as the only important issue. Beth-El stands ready to
provide to the vast middle ground the tools to live as ethically and as observantly
as all of us would want.
Thank you very much, and on behalf of the leadership of the synagogue,
and especially from Judy and Hannah, I wish you the best of New Years.
Carol Finerman
Beth Israel Congregation
Ann Arbor, MI (485)
I am always interested to read, especially before the
holidays, how various congregation Presidents are grappling with what
to say and how to say it when they have the opportunity to address a
majority of their members. This was my third (and last) time up at
bat.
The first year I did not plan to speak, but was urged by a past
President, to stand before the congregation on Kol Nidre. At Beth
Israel, we do not appeal for money on that occasion. I don't know
why, but it has seemed to be the tradition, carried on for many
years. We had just finished a building renovation, and so that first
evening, I thanked the congregation for their support in a successful
campaign. I think the entire speech barely filled one page.
Afterward, everyone thanked me for such a nice gesture (and such a
short speech.)
Last year I talked about the importance of a Minyan and planted the
seeds to think about endowments, a project we have been working on to
301
get up and running. This year, the subject was endowments. With the
help of my two endowment chairs, I built on the facts, without too
many details. I got lots of compliments on that talk and it is being
printed in our bulletin.
I try to keep my talks very brief, and one person said to me last
night, "You always hit the mark and do it so nicely." I keep reading
that Presidents don't know what to talk about and that amazes me. On
both holidays I talk about what I think people need to hear about
their congregation, something that will make them become involved,
something that will make them care enough to increase their pledges
(we don't call it dues), something that will make them take advantage
of what we have to offer.
This past summer, 60 of us, ages 7-84, led by our Rabbi, travelled to
Israel for two weeks. It was an extraordinary trip during which we
all, children and adults, interacted and drew very close. We held
our first gathering on Sept. 16. I spoke about that on Rosh Hashanah.
Anyway, so sorry to ramble like this. If you are still interested,
and following me, I have attached the two Kol Nidre talks for you to
peruse at your convenience.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Marty Koplan
Congregation Sha’arey Israel (CSI)
Macon, Georgia
www.csimacon.org
High Holiday Speech 5768
Thank you Rabbi.
L’Shana Tova and good Yom Tov.
It is a great honor and privilege to stand here before you to address such a full
house!
Welcome to all our guests. There is something especially wonderful about seeing
our sanctuary full of congregants and guests. Whether this is your first time here,
302
or you grew up here and there is just no place else that feels like Yom Tov welcome to your shul.
Someone recently told me that, to her, the Rabbi is the heart of Congregation
Sha’arey Israel. In thinking about that, I couldn’t help but ask “Who is the soul of
this synagogue?” Perhaps we can try to answer this question together tonight.
First, I’d like to ask you to help me conduct a short survey. If you fit into
any of the categories that I will mention, please stand and remain standing until
the end of this exercise.

If you have ever served as President of CSI , please stand;

If you are currently a member or have ever served as member of our Board of
Governors please stand;

If you have ever led services, read Torah or Haftorah or delivered a d’var Torah
at any of our services please stand; this includes Bar & Bat Mitzvahs

If you have ever been a member of our choir;

If you were confirmed here or if you have participated in our services; leading
Ein Kelohenu, opening the arc, carrying a Torah had an aliyah, please stand;

If you teach in our Sunday school or our Hebrew school or have ever taught in
our religious school; please stand

If you have attended our religious school, please stand and remain standing

If you have joined our CSI family within the past year;

If you have ever served as president of our sisterhood or on the sisterhood board
even though it was merged with our board of governors years ago;

If you have ever chaired or been a member of any of these synagogue
committees:
Ritual
303
Board of Education
Adult Education
Gifts & Memorials
House
Hospitality
Ways & Means
Membership
Social Action
Rabbinic Search
Centennial

If you have ever volunteered at or participated in a CSI event, such as Supper-inthe-Sukkah, the Frank Lamb Memorial Kosher Chili Cook Off, Lunch & Learn,
Adult Ed movie nights, the Purim Shpiel, Chanukah Family night, Super Bowl
Night , the Mother’s Day Brunch,

If you have prepared a Shabbat Kiddush luncheon at CSI, please stand.

If you have helped out at Junior Congregation or served as principal of our
Sunday school please stand.
Now, look around. I think we just found the soul of Congregation Sha’arey Israel.
I salute all of you – and want to take this opportunity to thank you – for your past,
your current, and your future service to Congregation Sha’arey Israel. Please be
seated.
Thank you once again. This past year has been one of tremendous
accomplishments for our kehilla with a level of energy and participation that we
have become famous for. As in the year before it, Shelley Davidson and her
board were tremendously successful in their efforts to hold well attended events,
regular services, monthly Shabbat dinners, Lunch & Learn, movie nights, a Purim
304
shpeil, the Mothers Day Brunch and send volunteer to serve at the soup kitchen
and so much more..And then to top it all off - we hired a wonderful new rabbi.
As we saw a few minutes ago YOU are all the soul of CSI and a soul must
also be fed in order to keep it nourished and to help it evolve. Here at CSI, we
provide a place that offers opportunities for families and individuals to participate
together in meaningful activities and prayer. I encourage you to find the best
place for you and your family to get involved.
For starters, come to services every-once-in-a-while. If you aren’t sure of what’s
going on in services, that’s ok. Someone will usually call out a page number, and
if you miss it no one will mind if you ask the person next to you. Stand up when
you see others standing, and sit down when they sit down and soon you will start
to understand when you are supposed to stand up and sit down. You should
know that no one is looking over your shoulder. Simply try to get what you can
out of the service, even if you don't know Hebrew. If you start coming to
services after about the third time you start to know the tunes and before you
know it you’re singing along, too. Attending our Shabbos minyan is a good
opportunity to simply reflect on the prayers, your week, people or questions
you're concerned about, or anything else.
If you are concerned about getting called up for an aliyah you always have the
option to say "no thanks" -no one will make fun of you or be offended. On the
other hand, there is a transliterated version of the blessings next to the Torah,
and the gabbai will be happy to help you if you would like to give it a try.
This is your shul - it’s a place for individuals and families and we are all members
of the family. When you think about what you want your shul to be I would be
willing to guess you want it to be a place for your family to worship together.
When there is a Bar or Bat Mitzvah your invitation is in the bulletin. If you see it
305
printed there you are invited and expected to come celebrate with your family our family.
Parents, when there is a service for your children try staying too. Whether you
stay in the Jr. Cong. service or come into the sanctuary with the other adults you
are sure to get something out of the experience.
Attending services is one excellent way for you to nourish your own soul but I
have to tell you CSI needs you to do more.
We must do more, and become more for us to sustain our current menu of
programs, as well as ensure that we continue to educate our youth, celebrate
them as they become b’nai mitzvah, and in due time, marry them and start the
whole process again with grandchildren. We must also assure that the shul, our
rabbi, and our community are here to support us in times of sickness and grief.
Only a synagogue community can sustain us from birth to death, in grief and in
joy.
We can only do this with your continued support. We need YOU! To be part of
US! Each one of you is needed to nourish the soul of CSI.
The story is told that one night the President of a synagogue was working late at
the Shul trying to figure out all the money problems the shul was having. Soon
after he took office a Genie appeared and said. Mister President as a reward for
being elected president of your shul I will grant you one wish. It can be anything.
Well the President thought for a moment and took out a map of the Middle East.
He said, Genie do you see this land of Israel, my wish would be that Israel would
have lasting peace. No more war, no more conflicts between Israel and the
world.
306
The Genie took a step back and said "I don't know, the Middle East has been at
war for 100's and 100's of years. Many Great Genies before me have tried to
grant peace in the Middle East and could not. To be honest, I am not that great of
a Genie. You will need to think of something else. Well the President thought for
a moment and looked down at all the files he was working on. Memberships
dues not being paid, annual appeals not being answered, many accounts not
being reconciled. Bills from Religious School, the House Committee, More
money going out than coming in. Ok Genie my wish then is to have all my
accounts in order so we can have a balanced budget.
The genie looked down at all the files, saw all the problems and pondered for a
moment then said "On second thought let me see that MIddle East Map again""
Seriously, our dues only cover a portion of what is required to run the CSI. It’s
truly impressive that we do so much with so little. We have a small membership,
little fundraising, a barebones staff and dues that are lower than most any
comparable congregation in the southeast. We need additional sustenance,
beyond that which is provided by a few generous members who voluntarily
contribute at enhanced dues levels. So how do we ensure our ability to grow and
evolve so that we may continue to nourish the soul – that is all of us? Well in
part through this - our annual High Holiday Appeal,
Every Shabbat we ask for God’s blessing on our community, on those who unite
to establish synagogues for prayer, those who enter them to pray, and those who
give funds for heat and light, wine for Kiddush and Havdalah, bread to the
wayfarer and charity to the poor. We recognize that our community is sustained
by those who give of themselves.
This is an inclusive prayer, for we all participate in sustaining our kehilla in one
way or another. In addition to your other important contributions, however, I
would love to count you among those have made the extra commitment to our
307
congregation by contributing to the 5768 campaign. The one thing this board is
committed to is NOT operating under a deficit. You all received the letter and I
hope we can count on you.
In addition to the 5768 Campaign we continue to build our Endowment Fund. It
is our hope that in time the interest generated from our Endowment Fund will be
enough to maintain our month-to-month expenses. But that will be years from
now.
Some may say, “give till it hurts, but instead I would recommend that you give
until it feels good, until you can say “I really feel like I did right by our shul this
year.”
There are so many different ways to become involved no matter who you are or
religious upbringing - CSI offers something to enhance your spiritual journey. I
encourage you to make this the year you decide to become more involved in all
CSI has to offer.
Build Me a Holy place, offers God, and I will dwell among you." Congregation
Sha’arey Israel is that holy place where our soul is committed to the spiritual
growth of each of the members of our family, our community and our world.
May we all be inscribed for a year of good health, happiness and peace.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
308
Arlene Lewis
Congregation Beth Tikvah, Marlton, NJ
www.btikvah.org
Shabbat Shalom and L’Shana Tova.
My husband, Michael, and I joined Congregation Beth Tikvah in 1980---well
before we had our children, Adam and Sara. We, like many others, did not grow
up in this area and didn’t have roots in South Jersey. We were looking for a
place to belong. We were looking for a place that was welcoming. We were
looking for a place in which we could build intimate relationships--- a place where
people were supportive of each other, a place where our spiritual needs could be
met, and a place where we could connect with Jewish tradition. We were looking
for a place that we could call home, a community!
I believe that Congregation Beth Tikvah is such a place! A community is different
from a congregation. A congregation is a place where people come together--where they merely congregate. A community is a network of support and
relationships. The more you become involved, the more relationships you build,
and the more connected you feel.
As I wrote in my first Hatikvah article in June, I have always felt that I receive
much more from my volunteering at CBT than I have given. We have found
close friendships and a rich, meaningful spiritual life. Here we have found a set
of values, similar to our own, a feeling of connection, and a belief that
transmitting Judaism to the next generation is important. At CBT, we believe that
309
taking care of each other is essential and that Tikkun Olam projects can make
this world a better place. Our family of families celebrates happy times
together—baby namings, B’nai Mitzvahs, weddings, golden anniversaries to
name a few. And we’re also here to help and support each other in times of
sorrow or tragedy.
Our forefathers recognized the importance of belonging to community. In Pirkei
Avot, sayings of our Fathers, it says, “Do not separate yourself from the
community.”
The Talmud states when “Any person works for the community, it is as if that
person is studying Torah.” When we volunteer and become involved at CBT, we
are bringing Torah to life. By becoming involved in a Jewish community, we aid
in the continuation of Judaism for future generations.
As president of Congregation Beth Tikvah, I feel that it is my responsibility to
make every congregant feel welcomed, as I do, and engage every member of
this congregation so that Jewish traditions and ideals continue. How does one
do this when our members’ backgrounds are so diverse? We come from
Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox synagogues. Some of us are quite learned,
others have no formal Hebrew school training. Some of us were born Jewish,
some of us have chosen to be Jewish, and some of us have chosen to support
our Jewish partners in an interfaith family. Some of us have traditional families;
310
some of us have blended families; and some of us have non-traditional families.
Our members are singles, singles with children, young couples without children,
families with young children, families with teens, empty nesters, and seniors.
And the list goes on…
The challenge is to build community amid this diversity. The challenge is to help
our members connect with Jewish tradition in whatever way is most meaningful
for each. The challenge is to meet the needs of every congregant. In order to
meet these challenges, I needed some assistance and I believe that I have found
it in a book by Ron Wolfson called The Spirituality of Welcoming. The book
suggests ways to examine who we are and what we are doing--- and then guides
synagogue leadership through exercises to help make improvements.
Our current by-laws (only a year or so old), call for both an Executive Board and
a Board of Trustees. The Executive Board which meets monthly is responsible
for the day-to-day mechanics of the synagogue. The Board of Trustees which
meets four or more times per year is now responsible for evaluation of our
strengths and weaknesses (an exercise that was completed on August 6th) and
strategic, long-term planning.
At future Board of Trustees meetings, we will be discussing our vision and goals
for CBT. Based on the strengths and weaknesses we have discovered, we will
dialogue about the challenges we face in creating a kehillah kedosha---a sacred
community--- in which relationships are of utmost importance, where worship is
311
engaging, where both young and old are learning, where repair of the world is a
given, where healing is offered, and where both personal and synagogue
transformation are embraced.
Creating a welcoming community, according to Wolfson, is a long term, ongoing,
and collaborative process among our lay leadership, our staff, and our Rabbi. I
welcome your input and your ideas. Board of Trustees meetings are open to all
and are listed on Hatikvah’s calendar and on our website. Please join us at our
next meeting on Monday, November 5th at 8 PM.
The Kol Nidre address has customarily been an occasion to share some of
CBT’s accomplishments.
One huge undertaking was the purchase of our new
data base program. Thanks to Mike Lewis and Allyson Bernstein for the
research necessary for choosing the program that would best meet CBT’s needs.
Thanks to Bev Fusfield and our secretary, Melissa Young, for entering much of
the data we have received to date. If you have not yet completed the data entry
form, please take one tonight or tomorrow. The forms will be in the lobby.
Thanks to your generous donations to the R & R campaign, we have replaced
doors and lights to improve energy efficiency. We have replaced much of the
siding on the building, re-furbished our bathrooms, re-carpeted a large portion of
the building (including the sanctuary, social hall, vestibule, foyer, and offices),
greatly improving the overall appearance of our building. We have also replaced
312
the oldest portion of our roof and made repairs to newer sections. We are in the
process of replacing heating and A/C units. Thanks go to Mike Lewis, Daniel
Wolf, Jim Van Horn and the R & R committee.
On June 10th, the Scott Rand Award for Volunteerism at CBT was deservedly
presented to Adele Albert and Barry Yelowitz who served jointly for many years
to make our Bingo game ever more successful. Bingo netted over $32,000
during this past year.
The Awards Dinner was a successful fundraiser, as well, netting approximately
$7000 thanks to Bobbi LeVine and her committee.
On July 15th we ran a successful blood drive, thanks to Mike Lewis, Mark
Waltzer, Howard Korsen, Hal Goldberg, and Bob Heiman. On July 29 th we ran
our annual yard sale thanks to Stu and Adele Albert and Mike Lewis, and many
other volunteers.
During last year’s Kol Nidre address, our past President, Allyson Bernstein,
spoke to you about the importance of programming. Although small in size, our
congregation provided incredible programming. Some of these included: the new
Hol-i-Tot program (targeting our youngest congregants) created by Ellen
Krivchenia, Elissa Geron, and Ann Nimberg; excellent programs for our youth
313
(including Kadima and USY programs) headed by Elise Dinetz, Alan Geron,
Gretchen Kotkin, and Tammy Kornfeld; our book club, Sunday morning
discussions with the Rabbi, J-Pop (or Jewish Perspective on Politics) programs
run by Debra Kramer and the Adult Ed committee; our Get Acquainted/ReAcquainted Night run by Robin Blickman and the Membership committee;
numerous Sisterhood and Men’s Club events under the direction of Bernie
Goldberg and Ken Siegel; and successful programming for our mature adults
headed by Elaine and Fred Emmer. And of course, we should be proud, that
despite our small size, we offered weekly Friday night and Saturday morning
services, as well as, Monday, Thursday, and Sunday minyans. Thank you to all
of you who helped to make these services available.
Looking toward the future, we have created two new positions. Hal Goldberg has
agreed to become our Endowment Chair and Janet Davidson has agreed to
become our Social Action/Tikkun Olam Chair. I look forward to working with
both of them.
We have created two new fundraisers. The first is our new Chai Fund (meant to
support those in our midst who cannot afford full dues and fees due to hardships
this year). The second is our Get Acquainted Casino Night on January 19th.
Thanks to Ann Wolf and Barry Dinetz and the fundraising committee. The
Casino Night is being co-sponsored by Membership. Thank you to Bobbi
LeVine, Robin Blickman and the membership committee.
314
We have also revitalized our Yahrzeit and Tree of Life Plaque programs. Thanks
to Gladys Ollar and Esther Zweig.
All of the programs and activities that we offer would not be possible without our
wonderful volunteers. Our volunteers are the single most important resource that
we have at CBT. We rely on our volunteers and committees in order to function.
We thank each and every one of our volunteers for their dedication and
willingness to give of their time and their talents. As we have done in the past, all
of the High Holy Day honors are given to members who give of themselves, in
order to express our appreciation for all that they do for CBT. I wish we had
more honors since it’s impossible to recognize every person who contributes to
our synagogue. Even if you did not get an honor this year, please know that
everything you do is greatly appreciated.
Once again, we have decided to ask for your Kol Nidre pledge in the privacy of
your home. If you have already made your donation, I thank you, on behalf of
Congregation Beth Tikvah, from the bottom of my heart. If you have as yet to do
so, please make sure you make this pledge a priority following the holiday. And-- if you are in a position to do so, please be sure that you consider the new Chai
Fund. When you give to support your synagogue, you are making a statement
that “this is our sacred community.” Being generous does wondrous things for
the soul; giving is far more rewarding than receiving.
315
With your Kol Nidre pledge letter you received a second pledge card asking you
to donate your time, talent, and commitment to specific activities. We hope that
you will return this card, as well, so that we can make CBT an even better
community. We ask you to become more involved. Sign up for one more activity
than you did last year. When we work together, we create a thriving community
in which each of us is challenged, valued, and connected. If you need another
card, they will be available as you leave this evening. Please mail them to the
CBT office to my attention.
May Congregation Beth Tikvah go from strength to strength in the New Year as
we renew our individual and our collective commitment to our future.
316
Morley Goldberg
President
Beth Tikvah Synagogue (1200)
Toronto, ON
mailto:morley.bethtikvah@rogers.com
This speech is in support of our current fundraising campaign.
One night the President was working late at the Synagogue trying to figure out all the
money problems the shul was having. Soon after she (he) took office a Genie appeared
and said. Madame (Mister) President as a reward for being elected president I will grant
you one wish. It can be anything. Well the President thought for a moment and took out
a map of the Middle East. She said, Genie do you see this land of Israel, my wish would
be that Israel would have lasting peace. No more war, no more conflicts between Israel
and the world.
The Genie took a step back and said "I don't know, the Middle East has been at war for
100's and 100's of years. Many Great Genies before me have tried to grant peace in the
Middle East and could not. To be honest, I am not that great of a Genie. You will need to
think of something else. Well the President thought for a moment and looked down at all
the files she was working on. Memberships not paid up, annual appeals not met, many
accounts not being reconciled. Bills from Hebrew School, the House Committee, Youth
Groups, More money going out than coming in. Ok Genie my wish then is to have all my
accounts in order so we can have a balanced budget.
The genie looked down at all the files, saw all the problems and pondered for a moment
then said "On second thought let me see that MIddle East Map again""
A visitor to Israel attended a recital and concert at the Moscovitz Auditorium. He was
quite impressed with the architecture and the acoustincs. He inquired of the tour guide, Is
this magnificent auditorium named after Chaim Moscovitz, the famous Talmudic
scholar? No, replied the guide. It's named after Sam Moscovitz, the writer. The visitor
says, Never heard of him. What did he write? The guide replied, A check.
A preacher stands up before his congregation on Sunday morning and says:
"My sisters and brothers, I have bad news, good news, and bad news."
The congregation sighs and says "Preacher, give us the bad news."
Preacher says: " The bad news is that the church needs a new roof"
The congregation sighs more deeply and says, "Give us the good news."
Preacher: "The good news, sisters and brothers, is that we have the
money for the roof."
Much cheering and clapping. Then the congregation roars, "Give us the
bad news."
317
"The bad news is that the money for the repairs is still in your
pockets"
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stuart Myron
Beth Tzedec Congregation
Calgary, Alberta
www.bethtzedec.ca
As I embark upon my term as President of the Beth Tzedec Congregation, I reflect on the
famous question posed by John F. Kennedy.
“Ask not what your country can do for you? Ask what you can do you for your
country”?
It is naïve to believe that President Kennedy was suggesting that the country did not owe
a duty to its constituents. However, on the other hand, he was attempting to emphasize
that the constituents of the United States have a responsibility to their country. Simply
put the relationship is not a one-way street but a relationship of give and take, each to the
other.
Accepting this premise of reciprocity, the question in the context of the Beth Tzedec is
more appropriately stated as:
Ask what the Beth Tzedec does for you and ask what you can do for the Beth Tzedec?
It is this question that I choose to evaluate. In doing so, I realize that we, both the
synagogue and its constituents have achieved a reciprocal relationship a status that
invokes a great deal of pride.
Ask what the Beth Tzedec does for you?
Our immediate Past President, Cheryl Shiell, spoke from the bimah during the High
Holidays a few years ago. She said, “the Beth Tzedec must be accessible 365 days per
year to meet the needs of our members whenever and however they require our services.
So how are we doing?
Our 2006 High Holiday services were truly outstanding providing a high level of
spirituality and enthusiasm for our membership.
318
Our Clergy is strong. Rabbi Ofseyer and Cantor Stein bring passion, dedication and
warmth to their roles invoking a sense of ‘openness’ and ‘welcome’ to our members and
the community at large.
We have a strong and committed Executive and Board who think first and foremost about
its constituents and are accountable for their platforms and initiatives such as “The Road
to Financial Stability”.
We have a modernized facility that not only serves the Beth Tzedec community but also
serves the community at large hosting events such as the UJA launch with Henry
Winkler, the B,nai Brith and CJC sportsman’s dinners and many other local Jewish
organizational fund raisers, annual meetings, and special events.
We deliver a vast array of programs. For example, the high profile Beth Tzedec Film
Festival and the Cantorial concert that reaches out to the community at large. Other
programs such as the second night Passover dinner and our comedic Shabbaton weekend
primarily deliver to our membership providing additional opportunities to celebrate our
Judaism and a venue for social interaction. Playing to yet a smaller group of our
constituents we offer a vast array of education forums including the Rabbi’s torah
learning class, the Rabbi’s discussion forums and conversion classes. Finally, the Beth
Tzedec provides for individual spiritual care and the various religious life cycle events of
each of our constituents
So I now turn to the second part of the question, “ask what you can do for the Beth
Tzedec”. Upon evaluation it is my opinion that we are doing well on this score as well.
We have a strong membership base that has increased year over year by 30 families.
It is this membership that supports us in so many ways. For example, four hundred and
ten families contributed to our annual 2006 Kol Nidre Appeal representing an increase of
32% of over the prior year. Two hundred of our membership attended the comedic
Shabatton as well as attending our Passover dinner. Twelve hundred individuals from the
Beth Tzedec constituency and the greater Calgary community supported our recent
Cantorial concert. On a smaller scale fifteen of membership underwrite the Rinaton choir
who add to the beauty of our High Holiday services and the Lister family generously
underwrote the beautiful High Holiday CD.
The Beth Tzedec is the beneficiary of a strong volunteer group who work selflessly for
the benefit of the synagogue.
Firstly, let me speak to our new Executive. Sixty two percent of the Executive group is
returning for a second or greater term. Twenty-five percent have previous Executive
experience and the balance while joining our Executive for the first time have multi term
Board experience. This composition speaks both to individual dedication and continuity
in our leadership group.
319
I would be remiss if I did not also speak about our Board of Directors. Eighty percent of
this group has returned to the Board for second or greater terms while the balance of
individuals are new members to this team. This composition is a good balance of
continuity and new involvement that bodes well for our future.
Our volunteer base does not stop here. We have individuals such as Harvey Cyngiser and
Eva and Gordon Hoffman and their committees that champion major initiatives such as
the Beth Tzedec Film Festival and Cantorial concert.
Yet again our volunteer base does not stop here. We have nearly two hundred volunteers
who support other vital initiatives from bingos to casinos, polishing ornamental hardware
or assisting with office functions. The Beth Tzedec as an institution recognizes and is
grateful for the contribution of all of these individuals and all of us as members should
recognize and thank these individuals for their efforts on our collective behalf.
While I am positive about the reciprocal relationship between the synagogue and its
membership there is work to be undertaken and objectives to be accomplished.
Obviously, we must build on our existing programs. While these programs may seem
routine by virtue of their annual nature there is much planning and coordination that
comes hand in hand with such events.
We must also stay committed and accountable to our financial platforms as set out in the
“Road to Financial Stability”.
Finally, there are new and major initiatives that must be accomplished during my first
year as President. These initiatives include:




A search for and contracting with a new Rabbi.
The implementation of a ‘governance’ model for Board management,
Completion of our strategic plan, and
Significant progress with respect Beth Tzedec Foundation endowment
campaign.
Our objectives and focus are clear. Your Executive and Board are accountable to its
constituents. At our AGM next year we will report on our progress.
On behalf of your Board of Directors I extend a Leshanah Tovah Tikateivu to you and
your families.
Stuart Myron
President
320
Robert Berns
Co-Pres
Morristown Jewish Center Beit Yisrael
Morristown, NJ
www.mjcby.org
Carole & I want to wish each of you L'Shana Tovah Tikatevu!
So, a priest, a rabbi and a minister go into a bar . . .
I don't know – someone told us to start with a joke.
Seriously, we want to begin by thanking each of our invaluable volunteers who
worked so tirelessly to make this High Holiday special, including the Ritual
Committee, the Ticket Committee, our Ushers, our Gabbais, the Facilities
Committee, Youth Committee, and Life Long Learning. We want to thank Melissa
Weiner, Lili Rosenstreich and Dana Lichtenberg for putting together this year's
great Family and Youth services and programs. A big todah rabah to our clergy,
our choir, our Board of Directors and everyone in attendance here today for making
this a wonderful Rosh Hashanah. Lastly but not least, we thank our office and
facilities staff – Mia, Richard and Tamara who have worked long hours to bring
today's activities to fruition.
As we celebrate a new beginning, we are pleased to let you know that Susan Levy has joined MJCBY
as our new Administrator.
Susan joins us from the offices of Lester Housing. Please make Susan
feel welcome the next time you are in the office.
Carole and I also want to take a moment to thank the many people who have wished us well during
our first term as the leaders of the Board. Some of you have asked how's it going?
Well, so far, it's been a little bit like a visit with grandma and it's also been a little bit like the "Al
Chet" prayer – some people want to give you a big hug and then some people just want to smack us.
All-in-all, it's going fine and we appreciate the support that we have received.
So – as I was saying - a priest, a rabbi and a minister go into a bar where they discuss fundraising
and how they determine what amount to keep for their programs and how much to dedicate to G-d.
The priest starts by saying that the answer is easy. He takes his weekly collection, tosses it onto a
round table which has a small circle in the middle.
That which lands in the small circle goes to
Mother Church – the rest stays in his parish. The minister says that he employs a similar method,
321
except he uses a square table with a line down the middle – that which lands on the left side goes to
the bishop and that which lands on the right side stays with his parish. The rabbi looks at them and
says – we don't use tables – they clutter up the sanctuary. So – asks the priest and the minister – how
do you allocate your funds? The rabbi answers – the Cantor and I walk up to the bima and toss the
money into the air – if G-d wants he takes.
I guess the moral of the joke is that G-d will provide – but some times he needs a little help. Carole
and I did not want to spend too much time talking about tossing money in the air – as we know the
Kol Nidre Committee is already hard at work and you will be hearing more from them next week.
However, we did want you to know that your contributions are greatly appreciated and we and the
Board hope that you consider your dues and other donations to be money well spent.
Our
programming, our sanctuary and our school are reflections of the generosity that you have shown in
the past and that we know you will continue to share in the future. Also, in the next week or so, you
will see brand new doors on the front of our sanctuary – a special project made possible by the
Needle family – and we thank them for their generous and continuing commitment to this
congregation.
As we look forward, there is much work to be accomplished at MJCBY. In the next few years we
will be approaching new challenges for our building and our congregation, and the Board will be
hard at work addressing changes and enhancements that are on the horizon for our Hebrew School
and operational structure. We and the Board will be reporting back to you on these developments in
the near future. Keep in mind that with each challenge comes a new set of opportunities, and we seek
your input and advice about how our congregation should move forward from success to success.
Lastly, we want you to know that it is not simply donations or dues that keep this congregation going.
We need your involvement. Come out and volunteer. Be apart of the crowd that works to enhance
your Shul.
If you would prefer to test the water before jumping in, then check out the calendar. Attend a LLL
program, adult education, join Sisterhood or Men's Club. Attend a meeting, see which committee is
of interest to you, then join.
Also, come visit us at the Board – our meetings are open to all congregants.
There are a host of opportunities for each of you at MJCBY, and we know you will not be
disappointed if you get involved.
L'Shana Tova
322
Carol Chorney
Comach Jewish Center (300)
www.commackjc.org
Kol Nidre 2006
Abe and Esther are flying to Australia for a two week vacation to celebrate their
40th anniversary.Suddenly,over the public address system, the Captain announces,
"Ladies and Gentlemen, I am afraid I have some very bad news. Our engines have ceased
functioning and we will attempt an emergency landing. Luckily, I see an uncharted island
below us and we should be able to land on the beach. However, the odds are that we may
never be rescued and will have to liveon the island for the rest of our lives!"*
Thanks to the skill of the flight crew, the plane lands safely on the island. An hour later
Abe turns to his wife and asks, "Esther, did we pay our Membership dues to the
Synagogue yet?"
"No," she responds.
Abe then asks, "Esther, did we pay our United Synagogue Appeal pledge?"
" No! I'm sorry. I forgot to send the check," she says.
Abe starts to smile.
One last thing, Esther. Did you remember to send acheck for the Synagogue KOL NIDRE
Fund this month," he asks?
Oh, forgive me, Abe," begged Esther. "I didn't send that one, either."
Abe just grins from ear to ear and gives her the biggest kiss ever!
Esther pulls away and asks him, "We are doomed --We will never see Home again.
How can you be so happy?"
Abe answers, "We haven't PAID any of our bills? THEY will FIND US."
323
L'Shanah Tovah--I AM LOOKING for you, although schnorer is never a word you
would ever find on my resume. We are part of the CJC family and we need your support.
Costs are up--and I don't think I have to remind any of you about that. You know what it
costs to put fuel in your car and heat your home.(and we're excited that it ONLY cost
$35.00 to fill up this week!)
And Yes, I MUST CONFESS RABBI,<
I live in a fairly. BIG HOUSE in Dix Hills!! AND I DO LOVE MY 21/2 Bathrooms!!
But all houses in this area are large . And we have worked long and hard to pay the bills,
even though it is not easy. Alan and I have supported our three sons through nursery
school ,camp, hebrew school, bnai mitzvah, orthodontia, proms
AND a LONG college road
I am proud to look in the front row and see Michael who is NOW a Special Education
teacher with a masters degree.
(AND, this is the best part)-HE IS EMPLOYED!! ANY SINGLE GIRLS OUT THERE?? OH-another Speech for
another time.. IT WAS WORTH IT!! He is our LEGACY
CJC has been part of OUR family for over 25 years. We even joined before we had
children! The membership of FULL DUES PAYING members has dwindled from our high
of 300 families. We are now down to the low 200's. This year thanks to Rivkah
Urrutia and her fabulous MEMBERSHIP committee, we have gained 24 new families,
but they are not yet full dues paying congregants, Our funding for operating expenses
is diminished and even though Norm Wieder keeps us in the lowest expenditures possible.
(AND I'M GLAD I DON"T LIVE IN HIS HOUSE DURING THE WINTER)
We have not raised our dues and remain lower in price than our surrounding synagogues.
COMMACK JEWISH CENTER requests you that you please donate a Kol Nidre pledge
this morning and do I have a DEAL for you!!
1) SELL YOUR BIG 12 bedroom house in DIX HILLS and share the monies with us..
324
NO?
2) MMM, how about selling one of your six bathrooms??
NO??
3) Renting out one of your 1/2 baths??
We are REALLY running a marvelous "DEAL" for those of you who pledge and pay before
Dec.1st. You may win a free membership! You may have seen this written in your High
Holiday packet. The Executive Board has again approved a chance for ONE family
to receive Free dues for the 2007 year. You are eligible if you increase your pledge
$36.00 more than last year and the minimum of your total pledge is $72.00. Even if
you didn't pledge last year, a donation of $72.00 will qualify you.
Just remember that the pledge must be paid by Dec. 1st. The drawing will be in December.
So whether you are an active CJC participant or marginally involved, WE STILL NEED
YOUR HELP. Please take out your beige ticket and fold down the amount you would like
to pledge.
.
In the coming year, May your heart be light with laughter, your mind free from worry,
your days bright with sunshine and your life filled with song.
Wishing you all a SHANAH Tovah..THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT.
( At this time may I ask the USHERS PLEASE COLLECT THE TICKETS WITH YOUR
PLEDGES..)
325
Jill Schiff Boissonnault
Beth Israel Center
Madison, WI (290) www.bethisraelcenter.org
Kol Nidre Speech
2007
Shanna Tova!
First, I thought I should break the ice by telling you a joke I found on the internet.
One Kol Nidre evening, the Rabbi noticed little Mollie was staring up at the large
plaque that hung in the foyer of the synagogue. It was covered with names and small
American flags were mounted on either side of it. The seven-year old had been staring at
the plaque for some time, so the Rabbi walked up, stood beside the girl, and said quietly,
“Good evening, Mollie,” “Good evening, Rabbi,” replied the young girl, still focused on
the plaque. “Rabbi Bernstein, what is this?” Mollie asked. “Well, it’s a memorial to all
the young men and women who died in the service.” Soberly, they stood together, staring
at the large plaque. Little Mollie’s voice was barely audible when she finally asked:
“Rabbi, Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur?”
I will try not to be boring! I am sure most of you know by now that we are embarking on
a Capital and Endowment Campaign, appropriately called,, ‘Campaign for the Future’.
Immediately after Yom Kippur those of us who have completed an orientation training
will begin to make calls to other congregants and along with our paid consultant, Ziva
Ben Reuven, will move from the silent portion of the campaign to the public phase of the
campaign. I hope each of you will graciously accept our invitation to participate in this
momentous investment in our future. We cannot move forward without each of you
making a commitment to the future of this building, and more importantly, to this Jewish
community we call Beth Israel Center.
I have searched for interesting, stimulating and meaningful words to try to reach each of
you tonight…I thought perhaps, that weaving a holiday theme into my talk might hit the
mark. What first came to mind was that catchy phrase from the Haggadah, “Dayenu!”.
Dayenu, it would have been enough for us!, Dayenu! I thought, “If we could raise half a
million and repair the offices, Dayenu! If we could raise another half a mil and remodel
the foyer and restrooms and coat room, Dayenu! If we could some how get to one point
five and manage to beautify and modernize the sanctuary and add some badly needed
storage…OY, Dayenu! And, if we did amazingly well and got to the 3 million mark and
could finally take care of the roof and perennial water leakage, build the new Mikvah,
improve the technology and mechanicals in the building, and set aside enough money in
an endowment fund to see the shul runs well…..Oh My! Dayenu, Dayenu!
Dayenu!....then I realized that a Pesach theme was probably not right for tonight, so I
moved on.
326
How about the story of Ruth, I thought? We read Ruth on Sukkot. Not so far off, Sukkot.
And the story seems to fit the message I want to convey that each of us has a
responsibility to see that this campaign succeeds. Ruth speaks those beautiful lines of
loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, “for wherever you go, I will go; wherever you
lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people and your God my God.”. In that vein,
I thought I should ask you all to make the needs of Beth Israel your personal needs; the
poor working conditions of our staff your personal mission to repair; the tired and worn
carpeting, the inadequate handicapped toilet stalls and space limitations in the Library all
yours as well as the synagogue’s. Beth Israel’s plight would be your plight! But, then, I
thought, “perhaps Sukkot was no major enough of a holiday to appeal to everyone”, so I
searched on.
There must be some part of the High Holiday liturgy that speaks to the needs we have
here! And then it hit me as I was praying and chanting on the 2nd day of Rosh
Hashannah… U-v’hane! And therefore! On page 152 in the Machzor, we read that the
paragraphs containing U-v’hane, among other things, “reaffirms loyalty to a universal
outlook and world brotherhood”. A perfect segue once again to reiterating our need to
have total participation in this campaign. And, I thought, to stretch it further, “And
therefore” implies that there was something leading up to that phrase. For example,
Aimee, our synagogue administrator feels she must cover her desk with plastic at night
for fear of ceiling pieces falling on important papers and computer hardware
…THEREFORE, U-v’hane, we need to renovate that space and repair all the years of
water damage that has caused such a mess in that corner of the building. Or, Years of
adding on and moving spaces around has lead to poor traffic flow and underutilization of
space and,THEREFORE, U-v’hane, we need to remodel to better utilize the space we
have and to improve traffic flow within the building! Or, we have so little space for
storage that our prayer books and chairs take over our coat room resulting in coats on the
floor on busy winter Shabbat services, and THEREFORE, U-v’hane, we must create
spaces for adequate storage in the building! U-v’hane!
Ok, OK, you get it by now! We have many needs to see to and we all have a role to play
in seeing it gets done. Our synagogue, like most others, relies on volunteerism to make it
run. In choosing to be a member of Beth Israel, we do so in full knowledge that the
synagogue is dependent on our support. I am asking that you all do your part. Please
make a pledge that will ensure the future of our wonderful congregation…its structure
and its soul. Your campaign pledge will go toward needed repairs, renovation of
structures that need beautification and modernization and the rebuilding of our Mikvah,
to name a few. We will work to make this congregation one you can feel spiritual in and
one in which you can be proud to celebrate and memorialize.
You will each be invited to a “parlor meeting” at a congregant’s home to share your
thoughts on needs and plans. We will seek your input in every phase of design and
construction once the monies have been pledged and we know how much we have to
work with. The money raised will be used for the building and for endowing our future
expenditures. How much will go in each will be determined by how much we are able to
327
raise. Please be generous! The silent part of our campaign has already raised over half a
million dollars. Let’s make sure we continue on this path of success!
I don’t want you to forget your obligation to ensure our current operating budget stays
healthy as well. I want to thank you all for your Yiskor pledges of this past year. Last
year at this time I asked you to increase your Yiskor pledges and you did! We raised over
$7,000 in Yiskor pledges compared to a usual $3000 in past years! Way to go! Please, do
it again! And, thanks to the many of you who increased your dues pledges by the 2% we
were asking of you. I want to remind you of two fundraisers currently going on: first, we
are running a split raffle (the Century Raffle) where you spend $100 and have a chance at
winning $3000 or two, $1000 prizes. Only 100 tickets will be sold. See a Board member
or send in money to the office for a ticket. And second, please send in your reservations
for the first Beth Israel Supper Quiz dinner! Saturday evening November 10th. A night of
great food and trivia-type entertainment. You save money if you get together a table of 8
so start planning and make your reservation through the office.
I also want to humbly acknowledge the tremendous number of you who volunteer your
time to make sure Beth Israel runs as it should and to those of you working so hard on
this Campaign for the Future; I cannot possible mention all the names I would like to here
tonight, and I might leave out someone important, so simply let me honor you by listing
categories of volunteer work that happens here:
Those who volunteer on the Board of Directors of the shul
Those who serve on a committee of the shul (ritual, technology, education,
festivals ,membership who do social action-meals on wheels, homeless shelter, cooking
for members who are ill etc., personnel committee, house committee, women’s league,
etc)
Those who make our holidays so special (in particular, Rabbi Katz, Rabbi
Diamond and Rayla Temin); who work to see that our Shabbat onegs are taken care of
(shopping, cleaning, setting up)
Those who teach our children, volunteer for the Talmud Torah, who provide adult
learning opportunities, who honor our teachers.
Those who maintain our building by gardening, sprucing up, taking care of our
ritual objects, seeing to the beautification of the shul and its contents, work in the library
or gift shop
Those who represent the synagogue at MJCC or other organizations around the
city, county, country and world
Those who fundraise in our Campaign for the Future and for other needs we have
here at Beth Israel
Those who participate on task forces
And last, but not least, those who volunteer in the many small and sometimes
large miscellaneous ways that defy categorization.
WOW!!! Thank you all. If you were not part of this large group of congregants, I hope
the sheer numbers alone will inspire you to volunteer this coming year. We need financial
commitment from you all but we also need you to participate in the working of this great
community here at Beth Israel.
328
So, as you think about your involvement at Beth Israel tonight and in coming days, please
contact me with any concerns you have. Please understand however, that I cannot
promise that each request you make or idea you have will be enacted, but I will promise
to listen and pass your thoughts on to those committees working on our future. With that
in mind, I leave you with one final chuckle:
The chief executive of Empire Kosher Chicken was visiting with the rabbi of a
well-known congregation in New York City. After talking for almost an hour, the CEO
finally brought up the subject he came to ask the rabbi about. “Rabbi”, he said, “I’m
willing to give our synagogue $5 million. But before I do, I just also request that the
traditional blessing made over wine on the Sabbath be changed to a blessing over
chicken.”
The rabbi was taken aback by this request. He told the CEO, “for thousands of
years, we have been making the blessing over wine and now in one short moment, you
want me to go against this age-old tradition? I don’t think I can do this.”
The CEO was undaunted. “Rabbi,” he said,” you drive a hard bargain. All right, I
will give you $10 million, but not a penny more.” The rabbi looked at the CEO and, after
several thoughtful moments, replied, Blessing over a chicken, blessing over wine…“I
will have to get back to you on that.”
The CEO left, and the rabbi promptly called a special meeting of the synagogue’s
Board of Directors. Dispensing with the D’va r Torah and the usual business, the rabbi
stood up to speak. He began, “I have some good news and some bad news.”
The trustees knew something big was up. They’d never heard the rabbi address
the Board this way before. The rabbi continued. “We have just come into $10 million
dollars! That’s the good news.” The Board gasped at the figure. The excitement was
growing. Then the President, asked, with trepidation, “But Rabbi, what is the bad news?”
and the rabbi replied, “The bad news? Oh yes, we just lost the Manischwitz pledge!”
Again , Shanna Tova and G'mar Chatima Tova
329
David Brotman, President
Temple Beth O'r/ Beth Torah (204) http://www.bethorbethtorah.org
Clark, NJ
Two weeks ago, I called up our Recording Secretary and said, "Michael, I have something to tell
you. However, I don't want to debate with you. I've made up my mind: I'm firing every one of our
employees."
He was shocked, and asked me to tell him what happened.
"I’m too upset to talk about it now. Please call other Board Members and tell them.
Michael said, "David, don't do anything rash. Let’s talk about it after services on Saturday.
Promise me that you won't do anything before then."
Within two hours later, I had twelve messages on my answering machine from Board Members
and Past Presidents telling me that they would be coming to services on Saturday to talk to me.
Later that night I called Wendy, our Executive Vice President, to tell her what I had done. After a
moment, she roared with laughter and said, "Well, that worked, but what are we are going to do to
get them to come to services next Shabbat?"
My friends, I am truly glad to see you here today, and I am very much looking forward to
celebrating our 50th Anniversary together. We come from so many different paths, but everyone
is welcomed. We come from Orthodox, Conservative, as well as Reform backgrounds. Some of
us have no formal religious training at all. Some of us were born Jewish, some of us have chosen
to be Jewish, and some of us are members of an interfaith family. We have seniors, empty nesters,
singles, and families with children.
Our challenge is to build community amid this diversity and to help our members connect with and
grow in their Jewish identities in ways most meaningful to them. Our members have diverse and
330
evolving needs and we take seriously our responsibility to meet those needs. To do that, though,
we need each of you to involve yourselves in ways that work for you and help us provide other
programs that you would like.
All year, Cantor Stern offers some of the best learners’ classes of any shul in the area. If you don’t
know the tunes or the words, come and learn with others who are in the same place. If Saturday
services are too long for you, come once in a while on Friday night, or come for PART of Saturday
morning. No one will complain if you come for only the first half, or the second half, or if you
only come when Friday Night Alive is offered. I promise.
After getting married in December, this summer Cindy and I went to Poland, Hungary and Israel
on our honeymoon. Before WWII, there were millions of Jews in Poland—more than ten percent
of Poles were Jewish. There were over 100,000 Jews in Krakow—one in four people. No more.
There are 150 Jews in Krakow, all but one synagogue is vacant and the cemeteries are packed.
However, for the last seventeen years, Krakow has hosted an annual Jewish Cultural Festival.
Survivors return with their children and grandchildren. A couple of thousand Jewish teens, college
students and adults join ten thousand non-Jewish Poles in revisiting a culture and people that once
dominated the city but are now mostly seen in museums. During the Festival, there are daily tours
of seven synagogues and cemeteries; Yiddish- and Hebrew-language classes; films, lectures and
exhibits; workshops in Jewish cooking, calligraphy and Hasidic dance; meetings with Jewish
authors, and Shabbat services. What was most striking to find out, though, is that throughout the
year, a large number of current residents of Krakow, Jews and non-Jews, are immersed in Jewish
learning. They are more involved with exploring Judaism than most of us are. Adults who want
to learn about Judaism put in time to study it just as they would any other subject. My non-Jewish
tour guide in Poland became so intrigued with what she learned about Judaism preparing for tours
331
that she is now studying for her PhD in Yiddish Literature at Columbia University!!! If 21st
century Poles take time to learn about Judaism, doesn’t it make sense for us to do so as well?
That’s my answer for reviving Conservative Judaism, and it’s worth it. Conservative Judaism is
the only branch of Judaism that is both true to Halacha and welcoming to full and equal
participation by men and women. As Jews, we are an educated people, but it’s time that we again
study Judaism. Don’t overdo it, but don’t fail to begin. Don’t spend all of your time in prayer, but
go to shul once in a while. In America, Judaism is not something to read about in a museum, it’s
something to live. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
I’d like to welcome Rabbi Stein and thank him for leading us on these High Holidays. I’d like to
thank Cantor Stern for raising us to new heights this week and every week. I’d like to thank our
Board Members and everyone who provides their time and their money for sustaining us and
providing us with services each day. I’d like to thank our office staff, our teachers, and our
custodial staff. Without them, we could not even open the doors. But since they’re open all the
time, come in! Use our newly renovated facilities for your simchas. Join us for Men’s Club,
Sisterhood, USY, Kadimah, Hebrew School, Line Dancing, Israeli Dancing, Yoga, Music Jams or
Torah Dojo. There’s got to be SOMETHING you like. Look at the program guide that we just
mailed to your homes—there are movies, classes and speakers of every variety—including the
Polish tour guide who now studies Yiddish Literature at Columbia University. She’ll be speaking
this year at the Mark and Edith Leif Shabbaton. Don’t miss it.
On behalf of my wife Cindy, the FIVE teenage children we share between us, and me, Shana
Tovah Umetuka, a sweet, healthy and prosperous new year to all of you, and I look forward to
spending our 50th year together.
332
Israel Bond Speech
Last week on Rosh Hashanah, I spoke about my experiences this summer in Poland at the
Jewish Cultural Festival. What I didn’t speak about, though, was that before I went to the
Cultural Festival, I went to Auschwitz, and that after attending the Cultural Festival, I
went to Israel. Just as Auschwitz is emblematic of the Nazis’ failed attempt to wipe out
the Jews, Israel is the Jews statement to the world of “Never Again.” Never again will
Jews cower before tyrants. The Middle East is not a friendly place, but Israel is prepared
and ready to defend itself from Iran, Syria, Al-Qaeda, Hezbollah, and Hamas, as it
demonstrated clearly by taking out a potential Syrian nuclear threat just two weeks ago.
While last summer had 6,000 rockets raining down on Northern Israel, this summer
provided a quiet period for rebuilding and growing its economy. Cindy and I traveled to
the Galilee, the Golan Heights, Tel Aviv, and Jerusalem. Unfortunately, a conversation I
had with an old man in Galilee is one of the things that still rings in my head. As I was
walking from downtown to the bus station, an old man stopped me and asked me where I
was from. When I told him in Hebrew that I was from America, he responded with
sadness, “Where are the Jewish people? He said “Last year I stayed right here during the
war, but now, even with quiet, the tourists have not returned”. All I could tell him was
that I had come, as I had six times before, but it of course was not enough.
I understand that some of you are wary of visiting, but I can tell you that I felt
nothing but safe. I traveled by car, by foot, by taxi, by train, by bus and by plane. I
traveled from West to East and all of the way to the North, within sight of Jordan,
Lebanon and Syria.
333
I hope you’ll travel there, but at the minimum, I ask you to support it financially.
Israel Bond proceeds go only toward infrastructure-- things that work to increase the
standard of living for Israelis. Recent bond proceeds have been used to expand the
seaport of Ashdod, a port which was vital to Israel when Haifa was under attack. Bonds
have been used to expand rail transportation between major cities, beautiful doubledecker trains, nicer than those running in the Northeast Corridor. And they are being
used to build a light rail system in Jerusalem. After two thousand years, Jerusalem will
have a modern public transportation system. Go see it for yourself.
Show your pride in our Homeland. Join me in turning down the corner of one the
tabs of your Israel Bond pledge card. This isn’t a gift; it’s a loan, and one that pays you
up to 5.6%. If a large tab is too much, turn down one or more little ones. Please.
G’mar Chatimah Tovah.
Ushers, I would ask that you now collect the pledge cards.
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
wish Israel enough sun to keep its attitude bright.
wish Israel enough rain for its people to appreciate the sun more.
wish Israel enough happiness to keep its spirit alive.
wish Israel enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger.
wish Israel enough gain to satisfy its wanting.
wish Israel enough loss to appreciate all that it possesses.
wish Israel Shalom, to get it through times when not
enough of us are there to say Shalom.
334
Kol Nidre Appeal -- 5768
Myles Simpson
Temple Etz Chaim, Thousand Oaks, CA
www.templeetzchaim.org.
550 families
They say that the most effective speech is one that has a great beginning, a terrific
ending, and as little as possible in between! Tonight I had planned on using what I
thought was a cute joke to start off, but when I previewed it to my son he said, “Dad, you
can’t use that!” “Why not?” “Because Rabbi used the same joke last year!” At least he
was listening…. So tonight as I start off, I’m already in trouble!
My talk tonight will actually cover a few topics, and I hope to be able to weave them
together into a cohesive theme. I’ll begin with a short story about Senator Joe
Lieberman.
During the 2004 Presidential campaign, Senator Lieberman took his campaign to Long
Island. As he always did while he was on the road, he went to Shabbat services with his
family at a local synagogue. After services while standing with the synagogue president
greeting people, someone asked if he was a bissel meshugah – just a little bit crazy – to
run for President. Senator Lieberman responded, “You don’t have to be crazy to run for
President of the United States, but you absolutely have to be crazy to be a shul president.”
My friends, I’ve been the president of Temple Etz Chaim for the past 18 months and
although I agree with Senator Lieberman on many points, I have to respectfully disagree
with him on this one. When I started my presidency, I expected that it would be
challenging but enjoyable, and yet I was completely unprepared for how much being
president would totally enrich my life. At this point, knowing what I know now, I’ll tell
you that it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done!
Working closely with Rabbi and Hazzan has been an amazing experience. Both have a
passion for Judaism and a love of people, adults and children alike, that is a pleasure to
see. Rabbi brings tremendous energy, enthusiasm, and a strong positive outlook in all he
does, and he is constantly striving for excellence. Hazzan Pablo has a remarkable
aesthetic sense coupled with a desire for perfection, and an innate sense of spirituality.
They have great respect and admiration for each other, and sincere dedication to our
congregation; we are indeed fortunate to have them as our Clergy. And I consider myself
especially fortunate to work with them each and every week.
I have not worked as closely with our professional educators, Joyce Bronstein, Debbie
Blumenthal, and Linda Fried, as I have with our Clergy. But I have the greatest respect
for what they have accomplished and what they continue to do each and every day. Our
Religious School, our PreSchool, and our Youth Department are really the envy of all.
335
They continue to provide unparalleled education, training, and social and cultural
development opportunities. It’s been an absolute thrill for me to see how our children
can’t wait to attend school and participate in USY. Our youth, of course, are our
future…..and they are in good hands with Joyce, Debbie, and Linda.
Temple Etz Chaim is really an amazing place. No matter when you’re here, there’s
always something exciting going on. A couple of weeks ago on Sunday morning, while I
was in the Temple lobby for a Membership Open House Brunch, I felt like I was in the
midst of a bustling city, with religious school students going to and from classes,
USY’ers handing out shopping bags for Operation Isaiah, adult students heading to the
Adult B’nai Mitzvah class, happy shoppers taking advantage of the Gift Shop’s Blow Out
sale, parents attending Religious School orientation, and the Ways and Means Committee
meeting to plan the 2007 Hanukah Fest! And this is really just business as usual for TEC
on a typical Sunday morning. Being surrounded by all these activities stimulates and
energizes me!
But even beyond the clergy, the staff, the schools, the religious services, the programs
and the activities, what has really impacted me personally is you. I never imagined how
much I would enjoy meeting and getting to know each of you. When I became president
I didn’t think that I needed or even wanted any more friends, but I was wrong! Our
Mission Statement says that we are a warm and welcoming community, and while it’s my
job as President to make sure that Etz Chaim fulfills this mission, I have had the
unexpected pleasure of feeling that sense of warmth and welcoming returned to me 100
fold, and for that I am forever grateful. I sincerely hope that each of you (without
necessarily having to become president!) does indeed feel that you are part of our Etz
Chaim community, that you are part of an extended family where together we can
experience and celebrate the joy and the beauty of our Jewish heritage, and that this is
truly your home away from home.
And now, a second story. A man was marooned on a desert island for several years.
When he was finally rescued, the ship’s captain noticed that he had constructed three
large buildings on the island. When asked about them, the man said, “Well the first
building is my synagogue, where I pray every day. The second building is the synagogue
where I used to be a member, and the third building…..well, that’s the synagogue I
wouldn’t be caught dead in!”
This story strikes a chord with us because we know that people, and Jews in particular,
have their special likes and dislikes, and these varied preferences influence the choices we
make, especially when it comes to joining a synagogue. We decide to join one, we decide
that we could never join a second, and sometimes we leave the first and join yet another.
This of course is our right as consumers, not to mention our birthright as Jews! Yet this
also emphasizes the need for Etz Chaim to understand what motivates someone to join our
synagogue, and what our synagogue has to do to satisfy the needs of its members so that
they stay. You should have no doubt that TEC satisfies my needs…….but how do we
ensure that every member and every potential member is just as satisfied? This of course is
where our strategic planning process comes in.
336
By now all of our members should have received the Strategies and Goals report that was
mailed out in early September. This report is the first published result of our strategic
planning activities over the past 2-1/2 years. We are particularly proud that we were able
to involve so many congregants in the various stages that led up to this report, including
participation in the focus groups and the congregational survey. If we have listened well
to what you told us in these forums, then the strategies and goals in our report are the
correct ones to move us into the future. Our next step is to develop detailed
implementation plans so that we can achieve the goals outlined in the report. Stay tuned
for more progress as we continue on this journey, so that we can realize our vision of
being a “vital and dynamic beacon of Judaism.”
By now you may be wondering if I’m portraying a picture of Etz Chaim through rosecolored glasses. Surely everything can’t be all that wonderful here, can it? Well, there is
one issue that we continue to struggle with, and that is our finances. Simply put, we face
challenges each year to collect enough income to meet all our expenses. From my
perspective, there are three factors that contribute to this situation:

First, we still have a large mortgage on our Community and Educational Center.
The monthly mortgage payments, while manageable, are using up financial
resources that could be better spent elsewhere. To resolve this, we have recently
launched the second phase of our capital campaign whose goal is to retire our
mortgage. You’ll be hearing more about this in the coming months.

Second, it’s a fact of life in nearly every synagogue that membership dues do not
cover expenses. This is not unique to Temple Etz Chaim. When you operate an
institution that is in the business of bringing meaning to people’s lives through
religious observance, study of Torah, and performance of mitzvot, providing
spiritually enriching worship services, operating excellent schools, and
conducting quality programs, activities, and events becomes very expensive, yet
the amount of dues that can be charged to members is limited. I’m sure that
everyone would prefer to pay lower dues, but the reality is that we would have to
more than double our dues to cover our expenses, if dues were the only source of
income. Clearly that is not feasible. That’s why we have additional income
sources, like Bingo, various Ways and Means activities, and of course the
donations that I’m hoping will come from tonight’s Kol Nidre Appeal. Further,
there are many additional worthwhile activities that we could conduct if money
were not an issue. Just look at the wonderful Selichot programming two weeks
ago, featuring Dr. Judea Pearl, which drew standing-room only crowds. This
program would not have been possible without the generous support of the Scherr
family in honor Barbara Scherr, as well Sisterhood. The bottom line is that these
kinds of events are only practical with your support, over and above dues.

The final point that I’ll share with you tonight about our Temple’s finances is that
a major portion of our budget is allocated towards financial assistance for our
members who need this support. Until I joined the Temple Board, I was not
337
aware that nearly one-fifth of our congregation receives some form of financial
aid. The policy of Temple Etz Chaim is that we welcome all members, regardless
of their ability to pay our dues and fees. As a Temple, and as Jews, we are
commanded to help those in need. In Leviticus (19-9), it is said “Just as G-d
provided you manna in the desert, you shall provide food for the needy.” Could
we do less? When a family is faced with major medical expenses for a sick child,
or when the family’s breadwinner becomes unemployed, or when seniors are
living on a fixed income, or when there is a divorce or a death and the now-single
parent with limited income is faced with paying for religious school for multiple
children, can we turn them away? Of course not, and we never will. But we need
your help, so that we can help them.
In a few moments, the ushers will come down the aisles to pick up you pledge cards. But
first, I want to let you know that I was particularly gratified at your response to my Kol
Nidre Appeal last year, and I sincerely hope that you will be equally generous this year.
In fact, I’d like to challenge you to increase your donation from last year by 10% or
more, if you can. I know that this may sound greedy, but since it’s for a worthy cause I’ll
risk offending you by this request. Remember that you can turn down more than one tab
if you find this to be helpful in picking an appropriate amount for your pledge.
Before you take out your cards, I’d like to close with a quote from Rabbi Ed Feinstein:
"What is a synagogue? It is a model of the world as we would have it. It is an example
we set before our children of Jewish ideals brought into life. Here, within the walls of
this institution, we are challenged to produce a reality that embodies and incarnates those
ideals. And succeed or fail, our children are watching. Create a synagogue that is loving,
warm and filled with life, and they will know that our promises are true. Fail, and they
will know that as well. The stakes are that high. The time is short. And the work is
great. Build Me a Holy place, offers G-d, and I will dwell among you."
May we all work together to build such a Holy place, may G-d dwell among us, and may
we feel his presence always. L’shana Tova!
338