“He is a true hero who helped repel the attacks on Israel.”

It was wonderful to see the turnout for the High Holiday services! It was a pleasure to see our Temple Judah family together. All the reviews are in, and the Rabbi and High Holy Day choir for the reform services were fantastic.

On the eve of Rosh Hashana (September 11), the traditional services began with a heartfelt prayer for the people lost on September 11, led by Mitchell Levin.

Prior to the start of Kol Nidre on Sunday night, the traditional services began with a prayer on the 53rd anniversary of the Yom Kippur war, also led by Mitchell Levin. One of the most interesting moments was the presence of a former member of the Israeli tank battalion that repelled the Egyptians and Syrians in attendance. David Appelboim and his wife, parents of Cedar Rapids resident Shay Appelboim, had visited us for Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. David, who was in a tank during the war that repelled the Egyptians, was injured during the war and spent time recovering in a hospital. He is a true hero who helped repel the attacks on Israel.

Another highlight was the presence of two members of the Beit Dien during Kol Nidre who were from Israel and were as tall or taller than Zach Fournier. One of them was a basketball player from Mt. Mercy University who is from Jerusalem, Israel.

I also want to mention that Mark Halpren, the chazzan at traditional services, announced that he has leukemia. He managed to complete the morning services at Yom Kippur but could not finish the afternoon service. Please keep him in your prayers.

We are all grateful for Mitchell Levin stepping up and leading the closing services of Yom Kippur. One of my favorite parts of the service is when we perform Havdalah at the end of Yom Kippur services. The lights are turned out, and it is a truly moving moment.

One thing I always keep 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 the High Holy Day services, outdoor services, Bat and Bar Mitzvahs, a baby naming, conversions, high school graduations and marriages. But we also support those who are ill and sit shiva with our members who have lost loved ones.

Please join the Temple Judah family and do your part and contribute to keeping the flame alive and burning bright. Don’t sit on the outside, looking in. Donate! Participate!

Shalom,
Brian D. Cohen
President