From TI President & Executive Director

These last months have been a whirlwind of uncertainty, politically, economically, medically, and socially. Through all of this, Temple Israel has remained our constant—the one place we could come and know we would be welcomed, connected, and nurtured. Our clergy, staff, and teachers have kept us focused on all that is good about our community and in our traditions. Our winter of engagement has fed our minds and souls. Shabbat Tzedek could not have come at a better time in our annual cycle, when we celebrate justice and remind ourselves how far we have come, and of how much work there is to do.

Marc Maxwell

Board President Change has always been a constant, our journey into the future interspersed with sadness and joy. In the coming months we will be saying goodbye and expressing our gratitude to one Rabbi and welcoming another, just as we last year said farewell to one Cantor and joyfully brought a new voice into our community. Temple Israel and change are our constant reminder of how we as individuals and as a community grow over time. I hope you will join me in embracing change, which is how we thrive in uncertainty, grow as individuals, and evolve for the better as a community. Our traditions never fail us, as we move from the darkness of winter into the joy of Purim and the reminder of Pesach as to how far we have come. Be well and stay safe.

Dan Deutsch

Executive Director As we approach a full year of Living Judaism together through a pandemic, there is a lot that makes me feel grateful. Our Temple Israel community continues to rally together and support one another. I recently spoke with a congregant who was in the hospital recovering from an injury. They were so appreciative of the outpouring of support that they felt from our “Temple Israel family.” Though I called within a day or so, my call was preceded by many others who had reached out with wishes for a speedy recovery. We thank you all for continuing to be a part of our congregation and for being there to support one another. If you are looking to get more involved with Temple Israel please let us know; there are many opportunities to volunteer, lead, or simply participate. You can always reach me at ddeutsch@tisrael.org.

All that we do to operate through the pandemic requires resources and your continued support. So far, this fiscal year has been a successful one for our annual Friends Fund Campaign. Our participation is up significantly and we thank all who have been able to contribute to our campaign. We are looking for gifts from the heart to sustain our work and propel us forward. No gift is too small, it is your meaningful participation that matters. Thank you for all that you do to make Temple Israel thrive.