Jules M. Hirsh

There are many roads leading to membership in our Congregation and many doors through which our members enter. Some are drawn primarily to our spirited worship services, many first join to enroll children in our Early Childhood Center or Religious School, others are looking for cultural and social activities focused on Jewish concerns.

No matter what road you've traveled to reach Beth Elohim, now that you're here, we hope that you'll consider new ways to participate in congregational life. Bring your family to a "first Friday" pot luck supper and Shabbat service, come to a Book Group discussion, join in an activity sponsored by our social action committee, sing in our adult choir, or join one of our many committees. These are just a few of the ways to become involved.

I believe you will find that involvement will draw you into our Congregational life and will demonstrate what makes our temple membership so special. A by-product of the activities we participate in together is the feeling of companionship and friendship that grows among us to create a cohesive community from a diverse group of individuals. It's no accident that we tend to talk about "belonging" to the Congregation, rather than just being members.

Please feel free to discuss any concerns you may have about Congregation Beth Elohim with officers, staff and clergy of the congregation. I'd be delighted to have you contact me with any ideas or suggestions you'd like to discuss. Talk to me after a service or a meeting, or you can leave a message for me at the temple or via e-mail. If I'm not immediately available, I'll try to get back to you as quickly as possible. I look forward to getting to know you.

Jules M. Hirsh