An old bit of Jewish wisdom says that in Jewish congregational life “laughter and tears crave community”. The sanctity of Jewish lifecycle occasions is surrounded by beautiful Jewish tradition and ritual. We are meant not to be alone. This is Ansche Chesed. Our community. Sharing the joys of each other’s simchas and supporting each other in times of loss.

 

I am also so proud of Ansche Chesed, especially in this challenging year. At the beginning of the Pandemic, when we could not return to shul, many synagogues already had been streaming. We started from scratch. With the dedication and tireless efforts of our clergy and staff, and enthusiastic support of our community, we soon had the technology in place, gained the experience and streamed beautiful High Holiday Services. We continue to be a strong and vital center of Jewish life with zooming joyful Kabbalat Shabbat, Saturday morning Shabbat and holiday services, and meaningful programming.

 

The dedication of our members to Ansche Chesed has been very heartwarming, but not a surprise. This year, membership renewals were very strong, our Kol Nidre Appeal brought in the highest number of contributions ever, and Mishloach Manot participation was solid. We are looking forward to a successful Annual Tribute fundraiser.

 

And, very gratifying, more and more of our members are contributing to our Rav Chesed Campaign to renew our synagogue with beautiful new spaces for work, for learning, for celebration, for prayer, for community. With our hope that every member will be a part of this exciting community effort, we will meet our fund-raising goals. It is very exciting that construction has already begun.

 

The Talmud teaches us that expressing gratitude is the root of Judaism. So please take out a journal ad. Our annual tribute is a vital fundraiser to fund our operating budget. And, this year’s tribute gives each of us the opportunity to express our gratitude and appreciation to those who over the years, or recently, joined with us in celebration or supported us in time of need; or simply to thank our fellow members, clergy, and staff for actions, large and small, that have kept us spiritually and socially connected, for friendship, for community.

 

Please register and join our virtual tribute celebration, May 23. It is a community wide event, and there is no charge. We want all to attend. I look forward to seeing everyone.

 

Best wishes,

 

Mark Paul

President