From the Presidents – April 13, 2023

Chag Pesach Everyone!

And so another Seder has come and gone.  Incredibly, Passover itself is nearly over as well, it seems to be going fast this year.  We wanted to thank everyone who helped put our Temple Seder together along with all of our members who attended.  It was the first time in three years we have gotten to have our traditional Seder so it was extra special.  And after looking at the calendar, we realized something else remarkable about this year.  Not only did we all enjoy our Passover traditions, but during the same week both Easter and Ramadan occurred as well.  It is not often that all three holidays occur at around the same time (the only thing that would have made it even crazier is if Seder and Passover also happened on April Fools Day!)  Yet it actually makes sense because of the links between these holidays.  Part of the story of Easter itself concerns the Seder, which Christian communities believe was the Last Supper.  And Ramadan involves a tradition where families and friends gather every night after a day of fasting (reminiscent of Yom Kippur) and share a wonderful meal together.  We guess this just goes to show that the simple acts (getting communities together, enjoying a good meal, reveling in each other’s company) bind us all together.

And now that Passover is almost complete, it is time to think about the next major events happening at the Temple.  Soon we will be observing Yom Hashoah and Yom Hazikaron (a tale of tragedy and a tale of joy, much like Passover itself).  And on Sunday, May 7, at 2:00 p.m. we are in for a very special treat because Cantor Marney will be planning to do a free concert program entitled “Love Songs and Lullabies from around the World”  The program will be a mix of songs in Yiddish, Ladino, as well as Jewish composers from Broadway and some miscellaneous pieces.  We encourage all members and their families to come enjoy some great music as well as refreshments.  Yes, there will be cake! 

Also, soon it will be time for elections to the Board of Directors.  Please consider joining the Temple Beth Hillel Board of Directors for the upcoming year.  Our Board is always on the lookout for members who have ideas for the future of the temple and the ability to carry out that vision.  You can reach out to us or any Board member when you are interested.

Finally,  the next Shabbat Service will be held next Friday, April 21, at 7:30 p.m.  Come worship with our community!  Also, Family Shabbat will be held earlier in the evening at 6:15 p.m, right before the next Shabbat service.  We plan to hold a mini seder for all the kids so spread the word to families in the area to come and enjoy the festivities.  The Adult Ed class with Rabbi Dean has resumed its regular schedule.  We will also have Torah Study on Saturday at 10:30 a.m.  And those who wish to join Tefillah services at the Religious School are welcome starting at 9:30 a.m on Sundays (though not this Sunday because of a field trip).  Thanks everyone!

  

 If I am not for myself, who will be for me?

If I am not for others, what am I?

And if not now, when? -Rabbi Hillel

~ Anna B Stein and David Zimring, Co-Presidents, Temple Beth Hillel