L’Shana Tova
A message from Richard Siegel
President, Temple Beth Am
[email protected]
As we approach the sacred and joyous season of the High Holy Days, I find myself filled with gratitude for the incredible strength and unity of our Temple Beth Am community. It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your President, and I am humbled by both the dedication and commitment that each of you brings to our community.
The High Holy Days are a time of reflection, introspection, and renewal—a time to deepen our connection with our faith, our community, and our own souls. This year, as we once again gather to observe Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur, I am reminded of the resilience and adaptability that has characterized our congregation over the past several years. While many institutions struggled to overcome the innumerable obstacles occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic conditions, and Jewish institutions have faced unique struggles, including rising antisemitism and adverse demographics, Temple Beth Am has flourished, and that is because of you, our amazing congregation.
Despite the challenges that the world has faced, TBAM has continued to be a beacon of hope and support, standing as a testament to the enduring strength of our Jewish heritage. Together, we have weathered storms, overcome obstacles, and forged new pathways, demonstrating that our commitment to one another and to our values is unshakeable. The High Holy Days are not only a time of spiritual reflection but also a time to come together as a community. I am so pleased that we offer a variety of inspiring and meaningful services throughout the High Holy Day season. Our talented clergy, alongside our dedicated volunteers, have been working tirelessly to ensure that these services are both traditional and innovative, providing opportunities for all members to participate in a way that is comfortable for them. In addition to our in-person services, we will continue to offer virtual options for those who are unable to join us physically. It is vital to us that every member of our Beth Am family can feel connected and involved in our High Holy Day observance, regardless of their circumstances.
As we approach the High Holy Days, I would also like to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each of you who contributed to Beyond the Curve, our recently-completed monumental campus renewal project. I so look forward over the High Holy Days to observing the expressions on the faces of our congregants who have not been on campus in a while! What has been accomplished is awe-inspiring. Moreover, while this historic project is particularly noteworthy, we cannot lose sight of the significant and meaningful contributions we make to our community, both near and far, on a daily basis in the form of both financial and “sweat” equity. Through your generosity, we have been able to support numerous meaningful causes and make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Our commitment to Tikkun Olam remains at the core of our mission, and your continued support is invaluable in achieving this goal.
Before I conclude, I want to extend a heartfelt invitation to every member of our congregation to participate actively in our upcoming High Holy Day services and events. Let us come together as one, united by our faith, love for our traditions, and dedication to a better world.
As we come together to observe these High Holy Days, we are reminded of the deep-rooted traditions that bind us as a community and as a people. These days serve as a bridge between our past and our future, a time to honor our heritage while embracing the potential for positive change. As we dip apples in honey and hear the blast of the shofar, let us be reminded of the sweetness and richness that life offers. May these holidays inspire us to strengthen our bonds of family, friendship, and faith, and to strive for a year filled with love, understanding, and meaningful connections. Let us embrace the spirit of forgiveness, compassion, and hope and may this season be a time of spiritual growth and introspection for us all, allowing us to move forward with renewed purpose and determination.
L’shana Tova Tikatevu—May you be inscribed for a good year!
With warmest wishes and blessings,
Rich