Annual Report 2026-5787
CONGREGATION AGUDATH ISRAEL STEPPING FORWARD TOGETHER
Rabbi Ari Lucas It took one courageous step into the unknown to make a miracle happen. Our people, newly freed from slavery, chased into the wilderness, stuck at the edge of the sea, didn’t know what to do. Some cried out; others prayed. But one courageous young leader (his name was Nachshon), boldly stepped forward into the sea. Tradition teaches that he continued wading deeper into the water until it came up to his nose. God was so moved by the faith of this individual act that God split the sea for the entire people to walk through on the path to freedom and holiness. We tell Nachshon’s story because we want to emulate his faith and courage. In recent years, we’ve weathered the tumult of a global pandemic, economic uncertainty, political upheaval, unspeakable tragedy and war in Israel, as well as growing antisemitism here in the US. And through it all, we’ve taken one courageous step forward after another - finding our way through these new challenges together, emerging stronger from our shared experiences. Am Yisrael Chai - our people, and our community are standing today on solid ground. On a personal level, Talya and I felt the power and importance of community as our son, Gideon, became a bar mitzvah this past April. Looking out at the “village” gathered to share our simchah, we felt the joy, purpose and power of community, as you all encouraged him (and us) to take our next step forward in our family and communal life. At CAI, we find ourselves on the edge of great possibility as a community. With the addition of Cantor Ehrlich to our clergy team, we’re ready to sing a new song together. And, as Lori Brown’s tenure as CAI’s Executive Director has reached the one year mark, our staff and operations are more stable and our board and lay committees are getting more support than ever. Now, we are ready to take another step forward boldly together. In the coming pages you’ll read about our courageous and innovative developments - all rooted in CAI’s core mission and values. We will also express our collective appreciation for the incredible generosity of our congregants who have given their time and resources to strengthen our synagogue. The overwhelming support of the community, on so many levels, is a strong indication of your faith in what we’re continuing to build at CAI. As we begin a new year, let us each consider how we can step forward into a bright future and may we be blessed to find God opening new pathways before us as we journey together. Shanah Tovah!
President Debbie Rosen As 5786 comes to an end, we can look back with pride on a year of profound growth and connection at CAI. We embraced our mission - Discovering the Joy, Purpose, and Power of Jewish life, together through spiritual warmth, inspired learning, and communal engagement. Over the past year, we enhanced our administrative operations with the addition of our new Executive Director, Lori Brown, and successfully secured long-term contracts with our senior clergy and professional team. We also navigated a meaningful cantorial transition, honoring the incredible legacy and retirement of Cantor Joel Caplan, while warmly welcoming Cantor Josh Ehrlich. We refreshed our sacred space with several key physical improvements, including a beautiful new outdoor sign and an interactive digital yahrzeit board. We also remained firmly committed to security, ensuring that our building is safe, without sacrificing CAI’s warm, inclusive environment. Thanks to the generosity of our congregants and the hard work of our professional staff, the Budget and Finance Committee, and the Development Team, we made meaningful progress in strengthening CAI’s financial position. We know that achieving our long-term strategic goals will require continued financial discipline, thoughtful investment in our aging facility and the collective commitment. We are focused on accomplishing these important goals. Our charge for 5787 is to build upon our successes, as we embark on an exciting new journey to realize our shared vision for the future. While the path ahead is filled with countless opportunities, our ultimate destination is clear - to continue to strengthen our vibrant, enduring synagogue and uphold the values that support our mission statement: Torah Umitzvot (Observance and Study), B’tzelem Elohim (In the Image of God), Kehillah (Community), Tzedek (Justice) and Areivut (Responsibility). Let us step forward into this bright future together, with confidence, joy, and our signature warmth, grace and heart. Wishing everyone Shanah Tovah!
The Annual Fund
Donations to CAI’s Annual Fund help bridge the gap between the synagogue’s core revenue and the expense of operating its broad range of services and programs. We are most grateful for the generosity of the congregants who have supported the 2025/2026 Annual Fund. Thank you!
BUILDERS
BENEFACTORS
PATRONS
($25,000 AND UP)
($2,500-$4,999)
($1,000-$2,499)
Anonymous Stephanie and Benjamin Akselrad Irma and Peter Berman Miriam and Matthew Block Mindy and Evan Blum Susan and Gary Botwinick Susie and Howard Bruch Linda and Jeffrey Drogin Karen and Ted Eisenberg Dorie and Seth Eisenstein Joyce and Steven Fichtenbaum Erica and Gregory Filosa Marisa, Dan, Ari and Adam Fishman Samantha, Seth, Abby and Alix Fliegler Donna and Arthur Franklin Stacie and Eric Gebroe Karen and Jeremy Glaser Burton Henry Dara Horn and Brendan Schulman Margaret Karcnik and Richard Tancer Esther and Harry Kartus Judy Levenstein and Phil Kruger Stacey and Morris Lewis Jean and Mark Mandell Michele and Jonathan Mehl Carol R. Morman Rebecca and Eric Nelson Mandi and Brett Perlmutter Deborah and Stuart Rabner Rachel and Joshua Reisberg Beth and Scott Reiser Alison and Stuart Rosenthal Rachel and Paul Scherzer Janice and Barry Schindler Harriet Sepinwall and Jeffrey Rosenberg Melissa and Eric Sobel Samantha Strulowitz-Steinberg and Ofer Steinberg Ami and Andy Talkow Jacalyn and Steven Walzer
Anonymous Edna and Steven Alberts Liza and Liad Amir Ellen and Chick Atkins Kerry and Matthew Atlas Tikva Bakal Elaine and Stuart Berger Ellen and Jonathan Berkowitz Carol and Marc Berman Stephanie and Alan Bonder Anne and Howard Burg Nancy and Cantor Joel Caplan Eta Gershen Cohen and Steven B. Cohen Greta and Ira Cohen Jennifer, Nathan, Avery and Jonah Dany Selina and Alan Davidson Amy and Larry Dodyk Tyler Dooskin Rabbi Paula and Jonathan Drill Esta Edelman Diane Edelson Peri Edelstein and Blake Shapiro Linda and Leslie Elfenbein Barbara and Michael Erlichman Beth and Robert Fink Anita and Edward Finkel Helaine and Richard French Michele and Jason Frieder Alison and Lee Frost The Gantman Family Melanie and Steven Glass Rebecca Glass and Derek Fields Alexis Gruber, Matthew, Sophie and Marley Fischer Cheryl and Barry Grummer Valantina and Nejat Hedvat and Family Maddy and Hank Heller Ruth Jaffe and Paul Horowitz Esther and Steven Kamenetsky
Elizabeth and Jeffrey Bier Melissa and Lawrence Elbaum Jane and Ned Gladstein Blanche Lerner
SUSTAINERS ($10,000-$24,999) The Charles Grunfeld Foundation Judy Elbaum Rachel and Robert Fink Amy and William Lipsey Wendy and Scott Newman Mindy and Alex Opper Robin and Michael Ware Wendy and Stephen Weinstein The Wieseneck Family
PILLARS ($5,000-$9,999) Claire Akselrad Rebecca and Ari Berman and Family Robyn and Joseph Bier Carrie and Brad Bobroff Shari and Mitchell Broder Shani and Louis Drogin Jenique and Eric Edelstein Daryl and Andrew Epstein Dana and Douglas Friedman Susan and Matthew Horn Marsha and Michael Messer The Rosbruch Family Debbie and Scott Rosen Paula and David Saginaw The Schechter Family Li and Harris Siegel Randi and Murray Spiegel Wendy and Daniel Stein Susan and Elliot Stupak Helene and Gary Wingens
PATRONS CONT. ($1,000-$2,499) Max Kleinman Eleanor and Marc Kramer The Krichman Family Michele and Jeffrey Landau Amy and Scott Lewin Elizabeth and Jonathan Liss Linda and Michael Lowenthal Edy and Rabbi Alan Lucas Debbie and David Lurie and Family Lisa and Glenn Mechanick Jessica and Mark Melendez Mary and Andrew Messer Helaine and Michael Mund Karen Nerlfi and Neil Schreffler Talya Oberfield and Rabbi Ari Lucas Deborah and Jeffrey Orens Laura and David Ostheimer Jeanette Paktor and Alfred Mahler Geraldine and Thomas Panitch Patsy and Ted Perl Robyn and Robert Projansky and Family Hilary and Howard Rabner Michele and Larry Raiken Diane and David Reidenberg Carol Richmond Marian Rothenberg Phyllis and Albert Russo Jeanne and Joseph Samet Margie and Larry Samuels Debbi and Jamie Schachtel Ronna and Robert Scheckman Lisa Pachtman Schlesinger and Mark Lipsy Amy and Steven Schonfeld Laura and Harlan Schreiber Rachel and Keith Schultz Michelle and Adam Shandler Marianne and Larry Shulman Jordan and Joseph Shumofsky Anna and Boris Shvartsman Alison Smith and Marc Glashofer Dara and Michael Soberman Amy and Ira Steinberg Sharon and Aubrey Stoch Susan and Seth Udasin
Nina and Arnold Wasserman Lesley and Stan Weilgus Pamela Fertel Weinstein and Marc Weinstein Sandy Weintraub Susan Werk Debbi and Scott Wertheim Dani, Gabi and Moshe Wolberger
SPONSORS ($500-$999) Anonymous Lisa and Jay Baranker Gail and David Black Joanne and Elliot Bramnick Joan Bronspiegel and Stuart Dickman Beth and Howard Cannon Bonnie and Sheldon Cytron The Dooskin Family Anne and Marvin Elmowitz Karen and Harry Engel Lindsay and Jordan Farkas Hy Fisher Lori Fuchs-Meyers and Adam Meyers Stacey and Michael Gold Marcia and David Gurian Carrie Halper and Carlos Castro and Family Sharon and Rabbi Richard Hammerman Jackie, Kevin, Julia and Ethan Haney Abby and Randy Kanter Renee Kaufman and Arthur Cytryn Helane Kipnees David Knopf Ann and Seth Leeb Lisa and Alec Lowenstein Marian Garber Marlowe and Keith Marlowe Amy Minkoff and Arthur Bocian Irva Nachlas-Gabin Jayne and Victor Nhaisi Felice and Arthur Nichols Carol and Harris Nydick Fae and Warren Page Seena Pajonk Nogah and Bruce Revesz Marilyn Rose
Cindy and Joe Roth Laura and David Rubenstein Amy and Jordan Schecter and Family Debra and James Schenkel Jennifer and David Schiefelbein Joyce Schnaufer and Richard Reinhardt and Family Debbie Schwenk Michele and Brad Shiffman Rita and Rabbi Alan Silverstein Ken Slutsky Caryn and Brian Snerson Lori and Jerry Solomon Grace and David Sumka Rachel, Elliot, Arielle, Shayna and Talia Tobin Steven Winter Herb Wolf and Family
FRIENDS ($250-$499) Anonymous Robin and Stephen Abrams Stephanie Bash-Soudry and Michael Soudry Suzanne and Walter Baumgardt Larry Blake Rosanne and Ira Bornstein Heather Boshak and Paul Kotlewski The Bressman-Centurrino Family Randi and Oron Brokman Lori and Philip Brown Beth and Robert Daniel Amy Dell Judith Fabricant and Rabbi David Saltzman Tara and Gregory Feig Karen Frank Jodi Friend The Friess Family Sally and Donald Garson Lindsay and Aaron Glauberg Daniel Goldin Lisa and Brad Greenbaum Beverly Hecht Shannon Hedvat Adrienne and Benjamin Himmelberger
The Annual Fund FRIENDS CONT. ($250-$499) The Kelmanovich Family Sarah and Shaun Kessler Madeleine and David Koenig Ariel and Wolf Levenson Bernard Levy Sherri and Daniel London The Lurie Family Lisa and Jason Marx Jessica and Alon Mass Etta z"l and Froman Mehl Alice Mikulak Deborah and Rabbi Clifford Miller Roberta and Norm Mulkowsky Shari and Charles Ornstein Adina and Dan Podell Debbie and Mitchel Prince Orna Rappoport and David Moses Renee Reiser Eva and Aman Rokhsar Julie and Brett Rosen Lea Wolff Rosenberg and Stephen Hertz Susan and Jack Rosenkranz Loren and Mark Roth Gail and Michael Rothkopf Stuart Rothman Laura, Adam, Mila and Romy Rubin Nancy and Marvin Ruderman June and Len Rudin Leslye and Alan Schulman Margot and Marc Schwartz Lynn and Michael Simon Laura Sklar and Daniel Goldstein Michelle and Graig Solow Debbie and Tom Spiesman Collene and Larry Stout Gina and Philip Vinick
Nicole Walzer Alexandra and Benjamin Weingarten Lea Whitney Joanne and Mitchell Wlodawski Cindy and David Wormser Danielle and Scott Wormser Lauren and Evan Wormser
SUPPORTERS (UP TO $249) Anonymous (7) Dee Abrams Mary Lou Allen Susan and Rubin Bedell Arlene and Mel Berkowitz Cheryl and Ian Bernstein Mikelle and Gregory Bliss Irene Blumberg Jilana Dellal and Paul Hoffman Roberta Diamond Nina and Alan Egger Vera and Brian Ehrlich Lauren and Daniel Feinstein Annette and Joseph Fine Joan and Myron Freling Lori Freudenberger-Nelson and Richard Nelson Amy and Alexander Glickman Sue Goldberg Susan and Steven Greenbaum Josh Henry Jeanette and Harvey Hershkowitz Reina and Myron Jacobowitz Jessica and Steven Jacobs Gena and Matthew Jarmel Rikki and Mikhail Kagan Deena and Idan Keren Morrie Kleinbart The Kohan Family Victoria and Evan Kovac
Mark Kushner Eleonora and Steven Lapidus Myra and Stephan Lerman and Family Nancy and Howard Levine Corey and Benjamin Lewis Carol Lewkowicz Glory Linsley Sherri and Daniel London Beyla and Stanley Makovsky The Meirzon Family Fani Magnus Monson and Rabbi Michael Monson Shelia Nathanson Natalie Peck Sharon and Alan Rein Maida and David Richlin Carol and Mark Rothstein Carolyn and Warren Ruderman Laura and Glenn Sacks Marion and Leslie Savoy Martin Schenker Bonnie and Steven Schwartzman Barbara Sebiri Karen Secular and Doron Grosman Deborah and Oliver Shapiro Diane and Alan Sklar Alla Skurkovich Leah Sterman-Kabrt and Richard Kabrt Leah Tarlow Leslie and Daniel Tubul Lauryn and Matthew Weinshank Debra and Seth Weisleder The Wesly Family Tal and Jason Wolf Judith and Allen Zaks Judy and Harvey Zeller Lisa and Mikhail Zeltzer Michelle Zeman and Howard Feiwus The Zucker Family
Cantor Josh Ehrlich In my first two months as cantor at Congregation Agudath Israel, I have been overwhelmed by the warmth, wisdom, and dedication of this community. The hospitality: so many of you have reached out to invite me and my family to meals, to bring freshly baked challot to our doorstep. And every week, the kiddush sponsors have included people celebrating s’machot (joyous occasions) and commemorating losses not only within their own families, but also within the lives of others in the congregation. People at CAI care deeply for one another. The learning: the bar and bat mitzvah students I’ve had the chance to work with are motivated and take pride in their Judaism. They work hard and chant with confidence using materials thoughtfully prepared by Cantor Caplan. Each Shabbat, congregants teach liturgy and Talmud. There is a robust cohort of Torah and Haftara readers, of Sh’lichey Tzibur (prayer leaders), guided with compassion and encouragement by our extraordinary gabbaim (service coordinators). And our choir gathers eagerly, even during the summer, to learn new musical arrangements that infuse our prayers with harmony. And finally, the commitment - to Jewish living and to this community - is joyful and strong. You show up to help make a minyan and support those in mourning twice every day. You come to Shabbat services and raise your voices together in a rousing swell of prayer-song. You join boards and committees, volunteering in so many different spheres: administrative, educational, financial, spiritual, philanthropic. I am especially grateful to everyone on the Search Committee who put in so much time over this past year getting to know me and representing the community so beautifully. In the short time I’ve been here, you have made a big impression on me. What an honor and a joy it is to be your cantor, to be able to step forward together with all of you.
Education Director Susan Werk Walking forward together. There is something sacred about holding another person's hand. I think of the firm grip of an adult guiding an unsteady toddler taking uncertain steps. I think of the eager hand of a young child, full of curiosity and wonder. I think of the comforting hand of a dear friend during moments of joy or challenge. And I think of the gentle support we offer an older adult, whose steps may have slowed but whose wisdom continues to guide us. Each handhold tells a story of trust. One person offers strength, the other offers purpose. Together, they move forward. As an educational community, this is who we are. We learn together, celebrate together, question together and grow together. Some of us arrive with confidence, while others begin with hesitation. Some lead; others discover their path. Yet no one is meant to walk alone. The Psalmist reminds us: "Adonai will guard your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore." (Psalm 121:8) As we step into 5787, may we remember that God's presence accompanies every journey, and that we are blessed to accompany one another. Every classroom, every Shabbat table, every conversation in our synagogue offers an opportunity to extend a hand - to welcome, to encourage, to teach and to learn. May this be a year in which we walk with open hearts and willing hands. May we steady one another when the path feels uncertain, celebrate each milestone along the way, and continue moving forward together - with faith, compassion and hope. May the year ahead bring blessing, growth, peace and the joy of walking this sacred journey as one community. Shanah Tovah
Rabbi Paula Mack Drill
Stepping Forward in Spirit “The students of Menachem Mendel of Kotzk asked: Where does God dwell? The Kotzker Rebbe answered: Wherever you let God in. With all due respect to the Kotzker, He left out an essential condition: Once we let God in, We must know what to do next: We step forward, together, in spirit. Judaism, you see, is not a lonely religion of spirit in the ashram or monastery, in silent study or quiet meditation. Judaism is rather a religion of people, among and with and surrounded by people. Our people. In a community. We call ours Agudath Israel. The Assembly of Israel. This is how we step forward in spirit:
We gather in tens and tens of tens because God hears our prayer more clearly when it begins in the beit midrash or the chapel or the sanctuary so our words and our songs lift up on the wings of our fellows’ prayer. Jewish learning takes place noisily in heated debate and questions leading to more questions in classrooms and hallways and the sanctuary where we listen for God’s voice in the verses of Torah and the ideas of our friends. Jewish celebration fills rooms of community. We dance, sing, and laugh, rejoicing in simcha rooms and classrooms and the sanctuary. With space for one and all, and even room for God, creating the kind of joy that lifts the roof off a place.
And grieving too, for so many, takes place in the embrace of community weeping in the library minyan and gravesides and the sanctuary. Jewish tradition teaches that we can only move forward when we do it together among all the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. Where does God dwell? Wherever we let God in… and also, within the walls of CAI and between the people of CAI always, stepping forward in spirit.
THE STEPS WE’VE
E V E RY S I M C H A , E V E RY C L A S S , E V E RY S H A B B AT . . . O U R COMMUNITY KEEPS GROWING
842
368
900+
C A I Fa m i l i e s
Students
Purim Baskets
C O M M U N I T Y C E L E B R AT I O N S 500+
172
250
Joined Clubs & Committees
Comedy Night
150 Purim Carnival
Super Bowl Shabbat
LEARNING & GROWING 273 ECC & Religious School Students
60
41
95
Shabbat in Pajamas
Wo m e n’s Retreat
Day School Students
19 Adult Education Classes
80 Israeli Dancing, grades K-9
Friday Night Lights for Elementary Fa m i l i e s Cooking Wo r k s h o p s w i t h S u s a n We r k
C A I M E M B E R S H I P. . .W H O W E A R E O U R A G E S A N D S TA G E S 81 to 100 5% 71 to 80 10%
OUR NEIGHBORHOODS West Orange Montclair 2.7% 10.1%
0 to 10 years 12%
Other 2.3%
West Caldwell 18.2%
11 to 20 years 13%
61 to 70 11%
Verona 4.4% Roseland 5.4%
North Caldwell 32.6% 21 to 30 years 11%
51 to 60 9%
41 to 50 years 14%
Essex Fells 3% Caldwell 8.1%
31 to 40 years 15%
Montville 2.2%
Livingston 10.9%
TAKEN TOGETHER
CONNECTING G E N E R AT I O N S
158
250+
20
22
Multigenerational Fa m i l i e s
Sababa Friends (65+)
Grandfriends 15 Events
Te e n Vo l u n t e e r s
L I F E’ S M I L E S T O N E S 13
8
35
New Babies Born
B’n e i M i t z v a h
6
8
Weddings
Conversions
Brit Milah & Simchat Bat
6 Aufrufs
51 Families Supported during Shiva
A C O N G R E G AT I O N T H AT K E E P S G R O W I N G CAI Membership
CAI Membership
20% Increase since 2023
New Families 63% Increase
1,000
60 57
842 800
785
50
810
702
40 Membership Units
Membership Units
37 600
400
35
30
20
200
10
0
2023-2024
2024-2025
2025-2026
2026-2027
0
2023-2024
2024-2025
2025-2026
Lerner ECC Director Geula Zamist Albert Einstein said, "Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving." Every day in the Lerner ECC, we help the youngest members of the CAI community take exciting steps forward in their development, and over the past 4 years, we have also enabled several senior congregants to expand their knowledge and horizons, through our Grandfriends program. Twice a month our CAI Grandfriends walk through the school doors to spend time with our Pre-K students, ready to create art, to sing, to dance, and to share stories. The Grandfriends and children undoubtedly take steps forward when they are learning and playing together, but the most valuable aspect of this experience is the creation of the impactful, multigenerational relationships among the program’s participants, which extend far beyond our classroom walls. One of our Grandfriends moved to New Jersey a few years ago, a widower who knew almost no one in the congregation. Grandfriends was the first thing he tried, and it opened the door to his involvement in the CAI community. He quickly grew close with the children, and developed a special friendship with one little girl. She told her family about him, and the teachers shared photos of their time together. Eventually, the ECC family invited this Grandfriend to their home for Shabbat. He said he walked in with a smile and walked out grinning even wider! Over lunch, he shared stories about his childhood and his family and truly enjoyed getting to know the ECC family better. This experience is not unique. Other Grandfriends express that the program has reconnected them with people their own age, as well as the children. They feel that celebrating Shabbat is warmer and less lonely than it has been in years. Many Grandfriends schedule vacations and medical appointments around the encounters so they won't miss the chance to spend time with the children. This year, they asked us to create a contact sheet so they can continue their newly formed friendships over the summer. This is what it means to keep moving forward - one relationship, one Shabbat table, one generation reaching toward another.
Rabbi Emeritus Alan Silverstein As CAI's 77-year-old Rabbi Emeritus, I have personally stepped forward with other baby boomers in our community by participating in the growing number of classes and activities for our synagogue’s mature adult cohort. With Rita, I have been blessed to learn a new skill of canasta with a master instructor, Joan Bronspiegel Dickman, connecting with "certified" players in the congregation. Thanks to the leadership of Renee Buckler and her team, the Silversteins have participated in numerous social events offered by our Sababa contingent, which consists of congregants who are 65 years and older. I have also enjoyed teaching three weekly Adult Education classes, which has helped maintain my interaction with several dozen fellow boomers, as we share ideas and insights both on Zoom and in person. Shabbat services, of course, provide yet another venue for our interaction among peers of our age and the entire community. As frequently stated by Susan Werk, CAI continues to serve "all ages and stages” of the congregation in meaningful and exciting ways. To do so, we are continuing to emphasize the importance of socialization - "It takes the presence of other like-minded Jews in order to be Jewish." When we do so, we can move forward together in joy, fulfillment and healthy aging. Shanah Tovah
Cantor Emeritus Joel Caplan We were really overwhelmed and humbled by all of the accolades during our celebration weekend. Thank you all: for the beautiful, heartfelt entries in the Journal, and the Love Notes on the ceiling, and the other letters we've received for all the photos and reminiscences, the performers, the speakers, the planners, the logistics, the food, the publicity, and the mountains of work that went into the celebration weekend for generously donating to CAI in our honor It was incredibly meaningful for us to see so many people who’ve been part of our lives for the last 44 years. That's not only those with whom we've worked - the whole congregation has been our family. We look forward to spending our retirement years in this wonderful community! Cantor Joel and Nancy Caplan
Cantor Joel Caplan Celebration CAI celebrated Cantor Caplan's 44 year tenure, bringing together a wide community of supporters, including current and former congregants, friends, colleagues and members of the broader cantorial world. The following individuals participated in a tribute journal that created a perfect finishing touch to a memorable weekend of celebration and gratitude. Dee Abrams Cantor Nancy Abramson Gail and Aldo Acuna Claire Akselrad Edna and Steve Alberts Jean and Ben Alter Liza and Liad Amir Deborah Arbit Hope and Paul Aronoff Helene and David Arzt Ruth and Ben Asher Lisa and Jay Baranker Allison and Steven Barbag Dana Ben-Avi Elaine and Stuart Berger Arlene and Mel Berkowitz Ellen and Jonathan Berkowitz Carol and Marc Berman Irma and Peter Berman Rebecca and Ari Berman Avie and Daniel Bertaccini Liz and Jeff Bier Robyn and Joseph Bier Miriam and Matthew Block Maya Bloom Mindy and Evan Blum Carrie and Brad Bobroff Stephanie and Alan Bonder Amy Borg-Glickman and Alex Glickman Susie and Gary Botwinick Joanne and Elliot Bramnick Kye and Arnold Brenner Suzanne and Howard Brock Shari and Mitchell Broder Randi and Oron Brokman Joan Bronspiegel and Stuart Dickman Selma Brookman Lori and Phil Brown Lynda and Craig Brown Susie and Howard Bruch Talia and Adam Buchoff Renee and Scott Buckler Melanie Burg Anne and Howard Burg Amy and Vincent Burke Beth and Howard Cannon Terri and Daniel Caplan Leah Lee and Aaron Caplan Joni Caplan The Caplan Family
CAI Cemetery Association Miwako and Michael Chiaet Jack Chomsky Amy and Howard Cohen Beth and Giovanni Cohen Eta Gershen Cohen and Steven Cohen Greta and Ira Cohen Yaffa Cohen Judy and John Craig Bonnie and Arthur Cytryn Beth and Robert Daniel Jennifer and Nathan Dany Babette and Jeff Davis Carmela Decker and Eitan Amrami Jilana Dillal and Paul Hoffman Sharon and Chuck Diamond Amy and Larry Dodyk Luan Doniger Rabbi Paula and Jonathan Drill Shani and Louis Drogin Sharon and Martin Edelberg Esta Edelman Diane Edelson, Burt Henry and the Henry Family Jenique and Eric Edelstein Susan and Steve Eisen Karen and Ted Eisenberg Dorie and Seth Eisenstein Melissa and Lawrence Elbaum Judy Elbaum Anne and Marvin Elmowitz Yuan and Daniel Elmowitz Karen and Harry Engel Daryl and Andy Epstein Tamar and Robert Epstein Barbara and Michael Erlichman Judith Fabricant and Rabbi David Saltzman Marji and Norman Feinstein Rosalie Felberbaum Joyce and Steven Fichtenbaum Erica and Gregory Filosa Sally Fineman Rachel and Robert Fink Anita and Edward Finkel Mark Finkel Hy Fisher Marisa and Dan Fishman Samantha and Seth Fliegler Karen Frank
Donna and Arthur Franklin Sarah Franklin Jessica Freiberg Joan and Myron Freling Helaine and Richard French Ronni and Christopher Frey Allyson and Michael Friedman Dana and Doug Friedman Jodi Friend Emily and Jonathan Gantman Chelsea Garbell Sally and Donald Garson Deanna and Allan Gitlow Jane and Ned Gladstein Karen and Jerry Glaser Rebecca Glass and Derek Fields David and Leslie Gleaner Stacey and Michael Gold Sue Goldberg Cindy and Neil Goldstein The Gollob Paltrowitz Family Karen Goodman Israel Gordan Sue Grossbard Samara Grossman The Grossman, Mangino and Salter Families Alexis Gruber and Matthew Fischer Carrie Halper and Carlos Castro Sharon and Rabbi Richard Hammerman Ronit Wolff Hanan Jacqueline and Kevin Haney Carol Harris and Robert Kann Robert Harris Beverly Hecht The Hedvat Family Maddy and Hank Heller Jeanette and Harvey Hershkowitz Adrienne and Benjamin Himmelberger Dara Horn and Brendan Schulman Susan and Matt Horn Amiee Idan Ilene and Bruce Jacobs Ruth Jaffe and Paul Horowitz Leah and Richard Kabrt Esther and Steve Kamenetsky Ellen Kaplan Margaret Karcnik and Richard Tancer Esther and Harry Kartus Shira and Joseph Kelmanovich
Andrea and Steve Kessler Risa and Charles Kessler Rebecca Kinburn Stefi Kirschner and Gil Schneider and Family Max Kleinman The Knopf and Weisleder Family Madeleine and David Koenig Kol Dodi Choir Mark Kushner Frances and Ben Larkey The Leeb Family Blanche Lerner and Family Ariel and Wolf Levenson Eta and Mark Levenson Judy Levenstein and Phil Kruger Susan and Ed Levey Shoshi and Ethan Levin Goldberg Katya and Daniel Levine Stacey and Morris Lewis Jill and Richard Lichtig David Lipp Erica Lippitz Amy and William Lipsey Elaine and Arnold Litt Erica and Daniel Lotto The Lowenstein Family Linda and Michael Lowenthal Stacey and Jesse Lubin Debbie and David Lurie and Family Sheila and Les Lustbader Andrea Malmud Jean and Mark Mandell Janet and Robert Markman Marian and Keith Marlowe Lisa and Jason Marx Lisa and Glenn Mechanick Fredda and Cantor Jack Mendelson CAI Men's Club Marsha and Michael Messer Mary and Andrew Messer Alice Mikulak Amy Minkoff and Arthur Bocian Michelle Moallem and Joshua Greenfield Fani and Rabbi Michael Monson Carol Morman Diane Moskowitz Nancy Moskowitz and Marvin Davidowitz Helaine and Michael Mund Adrianne and Evan Nass Jessica and Randy Nathan Daniel Neiden Rebecca and Eric Nelson Karen Nerlfi and Neil Schreffler NJ Cantor's Concert Ensemble and Cantor's Assembly NJ Region Wendy and Scott Newman Jayne and Victor Nhaisi Felice and Art Nichols Brittney and Eric Novison Talya Oberfield and Rabbi Ari Lucas Mindy and Alex Opper Deborah and Jeffrey Orens Anna Ott
Jeanette Paktor and Alfred Mahler Fae and Warren Page Park Avenue Synagogue Music Department Sheryl and Sam Pearlstein Stephen Perlman Mandi and Brett Perlmutter Dahlia Peyser Adina and Dan Podell Sandy and Michael Podell Marcy and Marshall Pollack Jessie Pressman Debbie and Mitchel Prince Robyn and Robert Projansky Debbie and Stuart Rabner Hilary and Howard Rabner Cantor Noah Rachels Michele and Larry Raiken and Family Orna Rappoport and David Moses Diane and David Reidenberg Karen and Richard Reif Miriam and Marc Reimer Sharon and Alan Rein The Reiser Family Leanne and Charles Rettig Maida and David Richlin Carol Richmond The Children of Julia and Norman Ripps Noelle and David Rips Nancy and Scott Ritch Lisa and Evan Robbins Rachel and Seva Rodnyansky Marilyn Rose Debbie and Scott Rosen Julie and Brett Rosen Davey and Ed Rosenbaum Susan and Jack Rosenkranz Ruth Rosenstein Alison and Stuart Rosenthal Loren and Mark Roth Marian Rothenberg Stuart Rothman Laura and David Rubenstein Laura and Adam Rubin Miriam Leisman Rubin and Daniel Rubin Susan and Rabbi Robert Rubin Nancy and Marvin Ruderman June and Leonard Rudin Phyllis and Albert Russo Renee Sachs Paula and David Saginaw Caryn Saitz Judith Salomon Jeanne and Joseph Samet Margie and Larry Samuels Dara and Frank Sblendorio Lee and Jonathan Schaer Michelle and Carl Schaerf Cindy and Jeff Schechter Ronna and Robert Scheckman Rachel and Paul Scherzer Janice and Barry Schindler Barbara and David Schlachter Lisa Pachtman Schlesinger and Mark Lipsy
Amy and Steven Schonfeld Debbie Schwenk Jane and Larry Sebert Karen Secular and Doron Grosman Harriet Sepinwall and Jeffrey Rosenberg Michelle and Adam Shandler Carole Shapiro Robyn Shoulson Joan and Mark Shufro Marianne and Larry Shulman Jordan and Joseph Shumofsky Michele Silver Beth Silverman and Barry Kann Rita and Rabbi Alan Silverstein Lynn and Michael Simon and the Gaswirth and Semaya Families Sharon and Jerry Siskind CAI Sisterhood Diane and Alan Sklar Alison Smith and Marc Glashofer Dara and Michael Soberman Lori and Jerry Solomon Serena and Aaron Solomon Randi and Murray Spiegel CAI Staff Alexis Stein and Jason Schlachter Amy and Ira Steinberg Samantha Strulowitz-Steinberg and Ofer Steinberg Beverly and Ed Stern Sharon and Aubrey Stoch Collene and Larry Stout Susan and Elliot Stupak Cindy and Alan Swartz Ami and Andy Talkow The Extended Taubenfeld Family Rachel and Elliot Tobin Susan and Seth Udasin Jane and Jeff Veksler Gina and Philip Vinick Lorna Wallach Rae and Paul Wallach Jacalyn and Steven Walzer Robin and Michael Ware Lawrence Wefferling Lesley and Stan Weilgus and Family Pamela Fertel Weinstein and Marc Weinstein Sandy Weintraub Melissa and David Weisman Celeste Werfel Susan Werk and Joseph Werk z”l Debbi and Scott Wertheim The Wieseneck and Shapiro Families Helene and Gary Wingens Rabbi Marge Wise Danielle and Scott Wormser Susan and David Yammer The Zacks and Zucker Families The Zeldin Family Judy and Harvey Zeller Lisa and Mikhail Zeltzer Michelle Zeman and Howard Feiwus
Membership & Engagement Director
Debbie Lurie
CAI is more than a synagogue - it is a thriving community, where we celebrate together, support one another, learn, grow, and pass traditions l’dor v’dor - from generation to generation. As we begin 5787, we can further strengthen our congregation by: Stepping forward in community: Create a welcoming environment at CAI, where every person should experience the warmth, kindness, and sense of belonging that defines our congregation. Stepping forward in membership: Invite others to become part of our community. We welcomed 57 new members to our congregational family for 5787 and we are excited for them to begin their CAI journey. Stepping forward in engagement: Encourage your family and friends to participate in synagogue activities. Engagement cultivates relationships, inspires new ideas, and helps us discover where our passions can make the greatest impact. Stepping forward in volunteerism: Serve on a committee, assist in planning an event, or simply offer a helping hand. Volunteers are the heart of CAI. The generosity of each person’s time and talent strengthens our community and ensures that we grow together. Wishing you all Shanah Tovah and may we continue to build a welcoming, caring, and vibrant community, where we achieve our mission of “Discovering the Joy, Purpose and Power of Jewish life, together” for generations to come.
THANK YOU TO THE 2025-26 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Debbie Rosen President
Scott Reiser Senior Vice President
Yaron Ashkenazi
Sharon Hammerman
Ofer Steinberg
Ellen Berkowitz
Burt Henry
Elliot Stupak
Dorie Eisenstein Vice President
Sharon Zucker Vice President
Elizabeth Bier
Joseph Kelmanovich
Elliot Tobin
Morris Lewis Vice President
Daniel Fishman Treasurer
Miriam Block
Lauren Kohan
Rachel Tobin
Arthur Bocian
Robert Projansky
Alexandra Weingarten
Stephanie Bonder
David Rubenstein
Pamela Weinstein
Larry Dodyk
Harriet Sepinwall
Seth Weisleder
Arthur Franklin
Jordan Shumofsky
Scott Wormser
Lisa Mechanick Secretary
Seth Fliegler Financial Executive
Matt Fischer, Counselor
Executive Director
Lori Brown
As I approach the end of my first year as Executive Director - and my thirtieth year as a congregant, I am reflecting on what it means to be a part of the CAI community. Leaving corporate America to become the ED was certainly a bold step and it has been the most meaningful career decision of my life. As your ED, I have developed a deeper appreciation for the dedication of our staff, volunteers and lay leaders. And as a congregant, I am thankful to belong to a community that opens its doors to families from a diverse range of Jewish backgrounds and experiences. My father often said, “No one walks alone”, words that have truly impacted my life. They echo the theme of our mission statement and capture the essence of CAI. This year, we walked together to accomplish some long-awaited projects including replacing the outdoor sign and installing a new digital yahrzeit board. We also strengthened our efforts “behind the scenes”, improving operations, streamlining communication and enhancing security. I am deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in me, for the relationships and partnerships that have grown over this first year, and for the privilege of caring for the synagogue that means so much to me and my family.
STAFF DIRECTORY CLERGY Senior Rabbi Ari Lucas | ext. 125 Rabbi Paula Mack Drill, Rabbi-in-Residence | ext. 127 Rabbi Emeritus Alan Silverstein | ext. 111
Cantor Josh Ehrlich | ext. 119 Cantor Emeritus Joel Caplan | ext. 116
EDUCATION Susan Werk, Education Director | ext. 122 Lori Weinberg, Admin. Coordinator Ed. Dept. | ext. 124 Jessica Pablo, Lerner ECC Admin. Assistant | ext. 120
Geula Zamist, Lerner ECC Director | ext. 121 Ashley Frish, Lerner ECC Camp Director | ext. 189
MAIN OFFICE & SOCIAL SERVICES Lori Brown, Executive Director | ext. 113 Carmela Decker, Director of Finance | ext. 112 Jill Bristow, Events and Operations Manager | ext. 115 Shari Friedman, Executive Assistant | ext. 117 Karen Frank, Synagogue Nurse | ext. 141
Debbie Lurie, Membership & Engagement Director | ext. 118 Adina Galatz, Facilities and Office Manager | ext. 110 Melissa Steb, Communications Manager | ext. 134 Mary Shearin, Development & Finance Manager | ext. 114 Andrea Malmud, JFS Family Social Worker | ext. 143
Legacy Circle
Legacy Circle donors have generously planned to support Congregation Agudath Israel beyond their lifetime to ensure CAI's financial strength for future generations. We extend a heartfelt thank you to our donors!
Be Present. Be Kind. Invest Your Time In What You Believe By Mitchell, Barry and Jill Gladstein The Gladstein Family has been involved with CAI for the past fifty years. Throughout this time, our parents, Lee and Joyce, would be at the synagogue for both social and religious gatherings, multiple times a week, every week of the year. It was obvious to anyone they met that they had a deep love and devotion to the CAI community. Joyce and Lee became members of the synagogue in an era when women’s participation in services was not the norm. Our mom quickly became an advocate for egalitarian rituals and customs. Her efforts resulted in the celebration of adult bat mitzvahs, women Torah readers and the creation of a culture of egalitarian participation in Shabbat, High Holiday and weekly minyan services. She was the strong, “quiet type”, always happy to connect with strangers and made sure that no one stood alone at the weekly kiddush. Our dad was the not so quiet, passionate supporter of CAI and all things Israel. The annual Israel Walka-thon, an event he co-chaired for many years, was a source of pride for our entire family. He led countless CAI-sponsored missions to Israel and spearheaded the grassroots Walk-a-thon fundraising efforts, which exceeded one million dollars. He was most happy when having a “side bar” conversation on Shabbat for the betterment of the shul or the State of Israel. To list our parents’ synagogue involvement over the years, while impressive, isn’t really the point. Rather, the very direct lesson of their commitment to life at CAI is to support what you believe. Our parents taught us the importance of belonging to a Jewish community and participating in social, educational and community service opportunities. They demonstrated respectful discussion and debate about pressing issues in Israel and at CAI. Their engagement in all aspects of life at the synagogue resulted in meaningful, lifelong friendships with clergy, educators and fellow members. Lee and Joyce Gladstein both passed away in 2024. Their Legacy Gift to CAI is an expression of their gratitude to this community and yet another reminder for us, their family, that we should invest in the communities that support us.
Anonymous (3) Jean and Ben Alter Hope and Paul Aronoff Arlene and Mel Berkowitz Gail and David Black Stanley G. Blank Miriam and Matthew Block Phyllis and Barry Bochner z"l Stephanie and Alan Bonder Susan and Gary Botwinick Joan Bronspiegel and Stuart Dickman Nancy and Cantor Joel Caplan Greta and Ira Cohen Judy and John Craig Beth and Robert Daniel Jilana Dellal Rabbi Paula and Jonathan Drill Shani and Louis Drogin Diane B. Edelson Jenique and Eric Edelstein Susan and Steven Eisen Karen and Ted Eisenberg Linda and Leslie Elfenbein Anne and Marvin Elmowitz Mark M. Englander Marjorie and Norman Feinstein Bonnie Bornstein Fertel z"l Joyce and Steve Fichtenbaum Donna and Arthur Franklin Phyllis and Marvin Friedman z"l
Robert E. Friedman Deborah and Jeffrey Orens Joyce and Lee Gladstein z"l Deborah and Stuart Rabner Rebecca Glass and Derek Fields Hilary and Howard Rabner Cindy and Neil Goldstein Michele and Larry Raiken Sharon and Rabbi Richard Hammerman Renee and Joel z"l Reiser Marsha z"l and Burton Henry Nogah and Bruce Revesz Ruth Jaffe and Paul Horowitz Marilyn Rose Natalie James z"l Marian Rothenberg Shai Kartus Jiji Paula and David Saginaw Margaret Karcnik and Richard Tancer Jeanne and Joseph Samet Esther and Harry Kartus Margie and Larry Samuels Gail z"l and Max Kleinman Ronna and Rob Scheckman Sasha and Matthew Koff Rachel and Paul Scherzer The Larkey Family Barbara Kaplan Sebiri Amy and Scott Lewin Harriet Sepinwall Amy and William Lipsey Michelle and Adam Shandler Linda and Michael Lowenthal Rita and Rabbi Alan Silverstein Debbie and David Lurie Caryn and Brian Snerson Etta z"l and Froman Mehl Randi and Murray Spiegel Michele and Jonathan Mehl Susan and Elliot Stupak Marsha and Michael Messer Bea and Nat Taubenfeld z"l Carol R. Morman Sandy and Jim z"l Weintraub Nancy Heller Moskowitz Melissa G. and David S. Weisman Helaine and Michael Mund Nathan Weisman Rebecca and Eric Nelson Susan Werk Karen Hauss Nerfli Jody and Rabbi Steven Wernick Jayne and Victor Nhaisi Lea Whitney Carol and Harris Nydick Maxine z"l and Herb Wolf Marjorie Nydick Allison and Robert Wright Mindy and Alex Opper Michelle Zeman and Howard Feiwus
STEP INTO A CAI EVENT THIS YEAR! September 26, 2026
Environmental Shabbat
September 27, 2026
Sukkah Hop
October 1, 2026
Spirits in the Sukkah
October 18, 2026
Israel Walkathon
November 14, 2026
Sisterhood Shabbat
November 15, 2026
Lerner ECC Holiday Boutique
December 5, 2026
Community Concert Featuring Baklava Express
January 10, 2027
Blood Drive
January 22, 2027
Shabbat Tu B’Shvat Dinner
January 23, 2027
Comedy Night with Dan Naturman and Andy Pitz
January 30, 2027
Annual Community Cookoff
February 5, 2027
Super Bowl Shabbat
March 21, 2027
Lerner ECC Purim Carnival
April 3, 2027
Installation of Cantor Josh Ehrlich
June 22, 2027
CAI Annual Meeting
Visit us at AGUDATH.ORG for more information and a full listing of our events 973-226-3600
Congregation Agudath Israel’s stained-glass windows, featured on the cover and back of this year’s annual report, were designed and constructed by artist and long time CAI congregant George Greene z”l. They celebrate the twelve months of the Hebrew calendar, as well as the twelve tribes of Israel, through a vibrant collection of symbols, colors and imagery that reflect Jewish holidays, traditions and history.