President’s Message

A few weeks ago, I arrived late to a Shabbat morning service, to discover a full house. I knew there wasn’t a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, so I was a bit surprised. (more…)

I read the announcements at the end of services most Friday nights and Saturday mornings.  People generally like hearing the announcements, because they know the end of the service is near.  I am often told that I read the announcements too quickly – perhaps my unconscious response to the congregation silently begging me to keep it short. (more…)

I was recently asked to respond to a survey entitled “The 2006 Survey of Conservative Congregational Leaders.”  The survey is being conducted on behalf of The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, and its author has promised to share a copy of the results with me when he publishes them. (more…)

Shana Tovah.  Happy New Year.  As you are reading this, we have just celebrated the beginning of our Jewish New Year – 5767.  The High Holidays, though appropriately solemn and somber at times, provide a wonderful opportunity for rejoicing, reflection and renewal. (more…)

As I become president of Temple Beth Sholom, I find myself focused on the importance of continuity and “community”. (more…)

As I write this column, about a third of the Major League Baseball season has passed.  For Yankees fans, though, the season seems to be just starting.  Sure, the Yankees are 30-31, trailing the Red Sox by 9.5 games, but we’re not worried.  (Of course, by the time you read this; we might be worried then.) (more…)

There’s a saying that: “Those who love Kosher sausage and obey the law should not watch either being made.”  I respectfully disagree.  In my view, there is a lot to be said for understanding the process by which things are created.  Finished products and end results rarely tell the whole story. (more…)

As you probably know, a contingent from our congregation recently traveled to Israel with Rabbi Scolnic. (more…)

Depending on the Postal Service, and on how quickly you typically rush to read the TBS Bulletin, you probably are reading this just before or just after (or perhaps even during) a Passover Seder. [If you look at our website regularly, you can enjoy it earlier. Ed.]

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As you may know, Temple Beth Sholom has morning minyan Monday through Friday at 7:15 a.m. and Sunday at 9:00 a.m. and weekday evening minyans Monday through Thursday at 6:45 p.m. (more…)