We were engaged, but not yet married, and knew we wanted to be part of a Reform synagogue. Temple Emanuel was close to where we lived at the time. We first attended TE in 1991, just to check it out, and were greeted with open arms and a feeling of belonging. We attended services more and more and became involved with some of the social action programs. Soon after that, we decided that this was the kind of community we wanted to belong to and became members. We felt at home with Rabbi Jerry, his music and his passion for TE and its members. As we raised our son, Adam, Temple Emanuel was a large part of his Jewish upbringing— through Hebrew School, bringing many Jewish traditions into our home, educational and fun programs, volunteering as he grew up and later participating in the TE Band.
Temple Emanuel has been a cornerstone of our Jewish lives, both spiritually and through traditions. It has been the Jewish foundation for Adam, and it has been my (Nancy) Jewish education as a Jew by choice. We have formed many long-time friendships here. TE members have been by our side in times of sorrow and celebration, like family.
THIS is why we joined the Leave a Legacy Program; to give back to Temple Emanuel, and to sustain this amazing community.