Thoughts from the new president…continuing a great tradition
First of all, I would like to give a heartfelt thank you to out-going president Robert Becker. What he has accomplished in the past 4 years leading our Jewish community at Temple Judah is simply amazing! The grounds around Temple Judah were forever changed by the derecho. The pandemic completely changed how we were interacting as a congregation. The interior of Temple Judah has had a facelift. A new parking lot with bio swales to divert water is finished. The renovation of the outdoor sanctuary is reality. There were many other small projects which added up to a lot of his personal time. There isn’t a way we can, as a congregation, say thank you enough for the job Robert has done leading our congregation through tough times into the future.
As I think about how I can follow in Robert’s footsteps (metaphorically…as my feet are a lot bigger than his…and, actually all of the past presidents), I am humbled and realize that in my 40 years as a member of Temple Judah I have seen many changes. I remember taking over as the house chairman from Fred Rogers and how hard I worked to keep the Temple a beautiful and wonderful place for over 140 families. Since 1986, the number of families has decreased. However, with a vibrant Rabbi, Board members, Hebrew school teacher, Religious School staff, Library staff, and numerous other committee members and active temple members, Temple Judah continues to move forward and provide a safe environment for celebrating holidays, weekly prayer, and Jewish education. For those who have not been to a Friday night service lately, I encourage you to attend (just don’t eat the frozen challah!)
I would like to also thank the incoming board members. I hope you find it a challenge and personally rewarding. It will be a mitzvah to have you actively involved and share ideas for the benefit of Temple Judah.
One thing I have always kept in the back of my mind as a member of Temple Judah is we are all one large family. We come together to celebrate wonderful occasions like Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, bris’s, baby naming’s, conversions, and marriages. But we also support those who are ill and sit shiva with our members who have lost loved ones.
Please keep in mind the history of Temple Judah … how in 1964 a reform and orthodox congregation combined to build one shul for the benefit of all Jewish people in Cedar Rapids. These leaders, some who have descendants still in our community, also had the foresight to look into the future and not only build the brick and mortar, but also set up and donate funds to provide a means of continuing the Jewish community in Cedar Rapids. As we now understand, these past leaders have provided a flame that still burns bright for the future of Temple Judah.
Please join the Temple Judah family and contribute to keeping the flame alive and burning bright!
Brian D. Cohen
President