President's Message

On the morning of Rosh Hashanah 5772, several hundred of us heard an evocative speech by our former president, Mark Silberman. Mark spoke powerfully, yet very personally, about his own “Jewish journey,” how it brought the Silbermans to us, and how they found a home with our congregation. He pointed out – quite correctly – that “everyone sitting in services this morning has a Jewish journey, a story, on how they came to be here today.”

Mark spoke in an equally compelling manner about the realities of supporting one’s congregation. He pointed out how, by our presence in the Sanctuary that day, we, the congregants, are demonstrating the value that lies in being affiliated with a synagogue (which, as Mark stated so well, is “an optional, discretionary financial decision”). He told of how, despite financial fluctuations, he “always had just a little extra money to make a donation to the temple.” He then closed by asking each congregant there that day to consider a donation of $50.

Mark is hardly the first lay leader to make such an appeal at the start of the High Holy Days (nor will he be the last). But the requested amount is by far the most modest that I can recall. Mark wanted to work with an amount that would be realistic for the largest possible number of members; he understands the importance of establishing breadth in our donor base – the percentage of total membership that participates in our appeals.

At this early juncture, I’m gratified to report that the 2011 / 5772 High Holy Days Appeal is off to a very good start in both breadth and depth of participation. As I write this (in mid-October), we have raised almost $15,000 from several dozen donors; not only are people responding to the appeal, but they are participating most generously. On behalf of the clergy, staff, and Board of Trustees, I would like to extend our sincerest appreciation to those who have given, including those who gave after this was written. Our temple is stronger because of your “optional, discretionary financial decision.”

B’Shalom,

Tim Weiss