I am writing my article this month with concern about the state of our economy, with hope about our new national administration and with appreciation to the members of Temple Beth Am.  I am indebted to my colleague, Rabbi Norman Cohen, for some of his eloquence.  

You have remained members of Temple Beth Am through many years and many different phases of family life.  I have watched a generation of children who grew up here go off to make their own way as Jews in the world, and so many of you have continued to support our congregation because you understand that it is the obligation of every Jew to ensure that there is a synagogue and a Jewish community for the next generation.

Over the last 21 years, I have come to consider each and every one of you as an important member of my extended congregational family.  We have rejoiced at the simchas together and supported one another through the sad moments.  We have studied together, prayed together, danced together and cried together on our path of Jewish life and learning.  Temple Beth Am is our shared Jewish home – our spiritual home, our educational home, our social home.  I want to assure you that Beth Am remains the place you can come all year long, every day of the week, and someone will be here to greet you and to help you meet your needs as best we can.

I know that this crisis is not just about finances.  Tension and uncertainty invade other areas of our life and even the disruption of an everyday routine can be traumatic.  I know that it may be difficult and discouraging to not have a place to go every day.  Staying at home for many does not always provide the most conducive attitude or environment to do the transition work that must be done.  Our sanctuary is a place we encourage you to visit.  Our prayerbook is designed no only for joyful Shabbat services, but as a place for meditation and reflection, for gathering strength and inspiration to face the vicissitudes of life.  If you would like to come and do your work here, our library is often available for you to come and read or use the computer, or even do some networking.

There are some people who choose to leave the temple because they cannot afford to pay their dues.  That is the last thing that people facing crises should do.  First of all, there are always arrangements for people in need; and secondly, these are times when communities are tested, but also times when they prove their value.  My friend and colleague, Rabbi Peter Knobel, wrote: “The texts and rituals of our tradition can provide strength and comfort.  Our synagogues can become safe places for people to share their needs in ways which are not embarrassing.  With some creative thinking, we can enable those more fortunate to help those less fortunate by supplying the things they need other than money.”

None of us knows how long this crisis will last, but we should see it as an opportunity to do those things that will mold our institutions into communities of mutual concern.  During financial and organizational challenges, we may discover the incredible human resources, talent and expertise that our members have and are so generously willing to share.

Difficult times often bring out the worst in people.  But they have the potential to also bring out our best.  I may not have all the answers, but I am willing to listen and be a non-judgmental and confidential support to anyone who needs it.  The Talmud teaches: kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh.  We are responsible for one another.  Please let us know how you can help Temple Beth Am and how Temple Beth Am can help you.

L’shalom,

Cantor Jodi Schechtman