What a time of year this is. It is a time of fear and a time of joy. It is a time for introspection and a time to revel in the power of our shul community.

We recently experienced the National Day of Hate on Feb. 25. Yes, it was a national event. We hired a security guard, and police cars guarded our shul during services on that Saturday. And we were just one of thousands of synagogues warned to be vigilant against threats of antisemitism, amid fears of violence — nationwide and right here in Suffolk County. With grandchildren in the IDF, I am acutely aware of the dangers and threats Jews face daily. Sadly, this is a bond that unites Jews worldwide.

Indeed, this is a time of urgent concerns and yet, at the same time, it is a joyous time of year. Although tax season may not be cheerful news to many, it does make this president think about our shul’s financial position — about legacy gifts and to dream bigger with a capital campaign to enhance our community spaces and build on our venerated history of more than 120 years.

And it’s Passover — the Jewish experience that began with the darkness of exile, the nightmare of bondage, the wandering to find a home and freedom. In many ways, the tale continues. We have the oneness of worldwide unity, for wherever we are in this world, we Jews gather to say the same prayers, follow the same rituals. and honor the same traditions.

And in this tradition, our shul moves proudly forward. Whether we gather for a hybrid Seder in the synagogue or a Seder at home, we share the joy of celebrating with family and friends. Yes, we have a kvetch or two, but we have created a display of unity at Congregation Tifereth Israel that allows us to rejoice in our history and in our mystical teachings. Let us delight in the community we have built on the North Fork, and in our spiritual connection to Jews everywhere this holiday season. It is the power of community that moves our shul  forward.

—Judith K. Weiner