Reflections from the President

The leaves have turned. The days are shorter. This year, Chanukah, the festival of lights, spans the eight darkest days of the year with the actual shortest falling in the middle of the holiday. Each night we persevere, lighting an additional candle, adding brightness to the world, one new flame at a time.

To me, the symbolism is inspiring. Every light contributes. Each in its small way –collectively illuminating the menorah, the room it is in, and, if it is placed in a window, the world at large.

So it is with Beth El. We are a community. Every member is important. Each contributes to the benefit of the congregation, one flame at a time.

More importantly, it is when you, as members, participate in Beth El programs, services, and activities that you benefit most from our community. Each activity can brighten your life a little. The benefit of membership grows in proportion to your level of participation.

There are many ways to be active at Beth El. Whether it’s by joining one of our many committees, attending services, celebrating a life cycle event, or being supported in a time of grief, we are there for you. Helping to light the way.

Every week we share information on special programs and events in our Friday email. I encourage you to read and explore it to see what might be of the greatest interest to you. And, I invite each of you to become actively involved at Beth El. Even if it is only one new activity this year.

One of the themes of Chanukah is having the courage to be who we are. Let’s do it together.

~Steve Rabb