Twenty-seven years ago we joined Temple Emanuel. We found a warm, joyous, musical, and vibrant community- some things never change!
Over the years, we experienced numerous transitions: from the old building that served as our sanctuary to the new sanctuary constructed in 1991 (Our son Scott’s Bar Mitzvah was the first Bar Mitzvah in the new sanctuary); and the removal of the house and the construction of our new addition.
Despite these changes, the constant at TE remains the sense of community. Years ago, our son Alex was badly injured and ended up as a patient at the Hospital For Special Surgery in New York City. The TE community helped us to get through this difficult time with comforting words, meals, and expressions of friendship. We have never forgotten those expressions of kindness, and we are constantly reminded of them as we respond now to the needs of others.
Both of us attribute our strong ties to TE to Rabbi Jerry Brieger. For Max, Jerry was a breath of fresh air- his joy and enthusiasm for TE was contagious. Max served on the board of directors, as vice-president twice and president for three years. Jerry helped Nancy learn Hebrew and inspired her to participate with three other women in an adult B’nai Mitzvah ceremony. Nancy remains actively involved in supporting TE’s choir, baking, and helping in fundraising events. Together we are the first husband and wife members of the TE band.
Our sense of community is now enhanced by the leadership, energy and wisdom of Rabbi Farbman and Olga Marcus. Their excitement is evident to all of us.
We view our membership and participation at TE as important and worthwhile. By setting aside bequests in our estate plans, we hope to assist this community so that in the future it will continue to remain strong and vibrant.