Welcome to Temple Beth Emet

 

Shalom,

I'm Rabbi Joel Berman. As you may know, I've just started as rabbi at Temple Beth Emet, and until the end of 2011, I'll be sharing the rabbinical duties of the Temple with Rabbi Kieffer. But rather than talk about the end of 2011, I'm more concerned with the end of 5771 and the beginning of 5772 in the Jewish calendar. In other words, right now.

The High Holy Days of Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur, and the feelings of being connected with our people are nigh upon us. One concern, besides providing quality services for you, is that you be here with us. I'd like to meet you. You may come every Shabbat, and we've already met (even several times). Or you may not come as often as that, and we haven't met yet. Or, you may not have visited in years. Or, you may know someone else who fits these descriptions. Many of us know someone, a friend, a former congregant, a family member, or someone who has become unaffiliated who, given a little encouragement, might want to re-discover the beauty of the tradition. I personally would love to see all of you, old friends and new, as we explore the themes of the holiday, and their relevance to us today.

All this works best in community, and as far as that goes, the more people joining our community, the merrier. We want to share all this with you. Temple Beth Emet has a long and proud history in the Orange County Jewish Community. We value our members, and our doors are open to welcome new families and individuals.  During this time of introspection, I ask you to look back on your history with us, and reflect on what your family has gained from TBE and to share that with your friends and family who might not be currently affiliated.  We welcome them to join with us and to share in the spirit of community that so defines TBE.

So if you haven't been by to visit lately, I invite you to come on by. If you know someone who hasn't been by in a while, I ask you to invite them. Please call the office and let us know, so we can have a ticket waiting in your family or friend's name.

I'm looking forward to seeing you, meeting you, and, over the course of the next few months, hear your ideas, and what you'd like to see happening at Temple Beth Emet. Whatever we do, it happens best with you.

Chaia, Deana, Eitan and I wish you a Shanah Tovah u'M'tukah--a good and sweet new year.

Rabbi Joel Berman