Only a few weeks left of summer, and we are ramping up here at Temple Judah! Religious school starts in two weeks, quickly followed by the High Holy Days. The last outdoor Shabbat of the season in the Silber Sanctuary is this Friday.
On September 10th, we’re hosting our annual Grounds Day! We have plenty on our list to freshen up the grounds, so all hands are appreciated. Every year I look forward to conversing with fellow congregants and putting a little sweat into getting the outside of Temple Judah ready for Rosh Hashanah.
Grounds Day happens to coincide with the first day of Religious School, so I encourage all parents with kids in Religious School to stick around and grab some gloves! Tony Smith will make his renowned fresh fruit salad to re-energize all who participate. This is also a great chance to get to know your fellow people of Temple Judah a little better.
Last week, I had the opportunity for a bit of outreach while helping Barbara Feller with Temple Judah’s table on campus at the Coe College CityFest, highlighting organizations in the Cedar Rapids area. We had a table set up with Jewish snacks and items, including a menorah and Shabbat candles. It was great to connect with the Jewish students on campus. Before moving to Cedar Rapids, several students recounted their parents and friends exclaiming, “But there aren’t any Jews in Iowa!” It was amazing to see their faces light up when they saw our table and realized there was a thriving Jewish community here. “These are my people!” one girl said proudly to her friend. “How’s your latke game? I’m looking forward to a mean latke.” I’m so thankful we have Temple Judah, not only for the area college students, but for all of us residents and long-time members who want to live a Jewish life and belong to a Jewish community.
We also recently held a board installation service to officially inaugurate the new officers, including myself. The board is going to be very busy over the next two years. We are planning improvements in membership, online presence, and within the board itself. For example, we are currently working on a solution to streamline the Treasurer’s duties and make it easier to manage bills, budget, and donations. I encourage you all to contact me with ideas for improvement, interest in volunteering or leading an effort. The best way to make change happen is to step up and be a part of it. You don’t need to be on the board to be involved.
I am looking forward to seeing you as Religious School and Adult Education classes begin for this school year. I’m also looking forward to seeing everyone at the High Holy Day Services!
Shalom,
Jill
President