1) Today I was told, "We're not a little shul, we're a jewel!" I would agree, especially when I see the way we are able to reach out to one another in a show of caring and support. Let me give you an example or two: a) On Shabbat we held our service at the Landing so we could make it possible for one of our regulars who is now finding it difficult to attend to be part of the service. The spirit in the room was amazing. There was a true sense of joy that we could all be together. b) On Sunday, there was a brit milah for a new child in our community. The mohel who joined us from Minneapolis was a cohort of mine who studied with me at Pardes in Jerusalem. He understood the importance of helping members of TI have a proper ceremony for their son. That might never have happened had the shul not supported my attendance over the years at Pardes' Executive Learning Seminar.
2) We have two adult ed. classes that have been organized by congregants for those who are interested. Al Weiss is facilitating our "Great Courses The History of Judaism" class. Esti Sheinberg is teaching a Hebrew course. It is good to see that these two individuals have taken the time to help others learn.
3) If you attended our World without Hate Shabbat and our first Lunch and Learn session, you are aware that we've had two very excellent sessions with two outstanding speakers. Mary Beth Muskin of the ADL and Dr. Joseph Francisco of UNL presented thought provoking sessions about timely topics: combating hatred and free speech.
4) WHAT IS NEEDED: We need a more committed core group to join us in our programming and services. We are not a large group and as we face more individuals whose health does not permit them to be present, we need those who are able to do so to join us. Having a critical mass present makes a difference for all.
5) WHAT ELSE WE NEED: We need those who who are not affiliated with our synagogue who have had ties to us in the past (i.e. as children who grew up in our shul but no longer have connections to us) to rejoin us as adults! ) Just think how this group could change our demographic outlook for the future.
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