A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT

SEPTEMBER 2010

I had the pleasure of having my grandchildren, Hallie and Samantha Feinberg, with me for much of the summer. My house was turned upside down with the likes of “Sponge Bob”, Phineas and Ferb, and the Princesses. With all the chaos, we made sure to attend Kabbalat Shabbat services every Friday night while they were here. They quickly learned the music and by the last service, Hallie was attempting to read the Hebrew! We traveled as a family to New York to attend the unveiling of Jeff’s mother and uncle. Over 60 Marcus family members attended. The power of family was never more evident than it was on that beautiful day in August.

As we prepare for the up-coming Holidays, it makes sense that this season of renewal and re-connection begins with our families and continues throughout our TBS family and into our community. It’s about taking personal responsibility for the future of our congregation. It’s about establishing a thriving, safe Jewish haven in a world that seems to be in constant turmoil. It’s about having a place to celebrate together, to cry together and to support each other. It’s about growing up together and growing old together. It’s all about family. We bicker, we disagree but ultimately we face challenges and develop a purpose and a vision of what we want the future to be.

Our Ritual and Education committees will meet in the future to discuss programs involving our younger members. We look forward to their increased participation in services. Part of what makes the summer so special is that our Bar/ Bat Mitzvah students literally take over our Torah services each Shabbat. As the weeks go by, we see their skill improve and by the time they are ready for their “special” day, they exceed all expectations. By supporting our synagogue we provide this opportunity for our children to preserve their Jewish heritage.

I look forward to seeing all of you during the High Holy Days.

L’a Shana Tova and may good health and happiness be yours to enjoy,

Barbara Marcus
President, Temple Beth Sholom