As I embark upon my third year as president of Congregation Tifereth Israel, I am struck by the ongoing and ever growing excitement our little shul on the North Fork generates among long standing members, new members, and in our local community.

Initially, I would have said it is because we have used technology to our advantage by developing great new programs and social media initiatives. We have grown our volunteer pool and attracted new members online. But first and foremost, we are a spiritual home, and we have Rabbi Gadi to embrace our congregation with beautiful hybrid services.

However…I know that every institution has its own identity. Even a spiritual home. This became clear to me during recent conversations with members, old and new. Truth be told, I have been calling to raise High Holiday Matching Gifts from Leadership Donors. So these are truly fundraising calls because we expect to generate enough money in 2022 to be able to match all High Holiday donations 2:1.

But the real gift…the gift with long term impact, the one that touches the heart and the soul, is the gift of friendship and community unfolding in those conversations. It is the Jewish dream of community.

To all in our shul community, I send you my dreams for peace and good health in the coming year. L’Shanah Tovah.

Judith K. Weiner