Who could have known on June 1, 1978, that Sharon and Avi Borenstein
would get lost somewhere in New Jersey, find a tiny Jewish community
called "Springfield" and actually move there to work to start a new orthodox community?
Who could have known that a year later Alec would be born as the first baby born
in the new community and 3 years later Amanda? Who could have known that over
the ensuing years the Borensteins would live in 3 houses in Springfield, work
and become friends with 3 rabbis, and be honored by the shul (at least) 3 times?
Who could have known that Hashem now would show his mighty hand and, even though,
for all the honorees, the idea of Kavod would be replaced by Covid, the power of community
would allow Congregation Israel to be an ever stronger force in the local and larger
Jewish Community under Rabbi Marcus' leadership? Who could have known? No one.
What we do know is that in each step of the way, from 1978 to today,
Hashem is guiding us to deeper and greater appreciation of his acts
and kindness, even when things get really tough.
Who could have known? The Borensteins and Abbous knew!
Mazal tov to all of our honorees.
Sharon & Avi Borenstein (Springfield)
Lea & Alec Borenstein, Cal & Jack (Teaneck)
Amanda & Yonatan Abbou, Michael, Elisha, Yehuda & Gavriel (Elizabeth)