PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Reflections from my time as CAI president

As our team of clergy, staff, and lay leaders revive “The Voice” from its pandemic hiatus, we are bringing back the traditional message from the president of the board of trustees in each issue. Since I have only a few weeks left in this seat, I would like to take this opportunity to share my insights from this rewarding experience.

CAI is an incredible congregation; our 850-plus member households may approach their Jewish observance from different perspectives, but we are united in our enthusiasm for this community. CAI sets the standard for other synagogues in our area. Along with the clergy and staff, so many congregants give their time to create opportunities for us to gather, to pray, to celebrate, to learn, and to socialize. Our clergy, professionals, lay leaders, and volunteers are our greatest strength. If you ever want to feel like your time is valued, just volunteer for a role at CAI; you will be overwhelmed by the outpouring of gratitude for your efforts and energy.

We are the beneficiaries of the hard work and dedication of the clergy, staff, and congregants who came before us, and in turn we must continue to “pay it forward” to ensure that this community will remain strong for another 100 years. Therefore, we are all committed to working diligently to create programs and events that serve the needs of our community today and invite others to join us to build additional long-term involvement in our community.

In my many years of service on the board, I have learned that we need to enhance our community’s understanding of the importance of supporting CAI's fund-raising efforts. Every gift at every level is critical to ensuring the financial strength of our synagogue. I encourage you to both give your time and give your financial support; it is supremely rewarding. Our Agudath Israel community will continue to thrive with everyone’s support. Thank you for allowing me to share my journey with all of you. This has been the most rewarding volunteer experience I could have hoped for.