Yom Kippur Appeal 5786

Shana Tova! It is so gratifying to see you all – whether you’re here in person or watching on JBS or on livestream. I‘ve now had the honor of serving this congregation as President for over a year, and the love and enthusiasm that radiates from our community is truly inspiring and continues to amaze me.

Before I start, I want to thank my wife. And I’m not thanking her just for her support and understanding. Sure, that’s all there. You see, she knew I used all my best material last year, so I wouldn’t have anything left for this year. So, what did she decide to do - she fainted during one of last year’s appeals. Really – it caused quite a commotion. Apparently, it was caused by low blood sugar, but I know she was thinking of me and wanted to supply with some fresh material. Hopefully she won’t do something more drastic this year, but Juliana – I really appreciate the effort.

To be honest, writing this year’s appeal was very difficult. Facing the increasing ugliness of today’s world, I was finding it hard to feel hopeful. Then, I reflected upon my conversations with many of you over the past year, and I remembered the refrain I heard from you time and again: “Central was there for me.” Whether in moments of despair, grief, confusion, prayer, or joy, “Central was there for me” was the constant.

I experienced this myself in a single day last fall. I was heading to Central for Simcha Torah services when my father called me with a quivering voice to tell me that my beloved Uncle Alan, who had been very ill, had passed away. I wasn’t sure whether I wanted to continue to services, but I did. When I got to the sanctuary, members of the clergy immediately sensed that I was distressed. I was comforted by their sensitivity to my loss, and even just by their presence. I took my seat on the Bimah, still in a daze and despondent. But then something happened – I experienced the most joyous service I could imagine, as children, parents, grandparents and other congregants celebrated the beautiful holiday together. While I was still saddened, I was lifted up by the energy, by the music, and by the sense of community that filled the sanctuary. That was Central all in one moment.

I imagine you have experienced something similar – that you have felt Central’s impact in very real ways:

Maybe you have joined our record in-person and online crowds at our vibrant Friday night Shabbat services.

Maybe you were inspired by our thought-provoking classes, programs or speakers.

Maybe you felt uplifted by volunteering in one of our many programs that meet the mandate of Tikkun Olam.

Maybe you witnessed your child’s or grandchild’s giddiness at our nursery school or religious school, both of which are serving more children than ever.

Maybe you learned about the beauty and depth of Reform Judaism in our Center for Exploring Judaism, as we continue to see record numbers flocking to that program.

Maybe you celebrated an important family lifecycle that Central made all the more special.

Maybe you’re as excited as I am to celebrate our Senior Rabbi’s 20th anniversary this year and to read her wonderful memoir, “Heart of a Stranger” – coming out next month and already available on Amazon.

Or maybe, sadly, you experienced times of sickness or loss and were buoyed and comforted by the understanding and kindness shown by our wonderful clergy.

No matter how you have experienced Central, you know that Central is there for you and is your home.

And I don’t mean “home” just as a building. I mean home in a deeper sense – a place where you are welcomed and comfortable, a place where you belong.

This past year reminded us again just how much we need that kind of home. The world has felt unsteady and out of control. Our hearts have been broken by events near and far. And yet, through all of it, Central has been there for us – a place of strength, of learning, of comfort and of connection.

None of this is possible without your incredible generosity. The Yom Kippur Appeal accounts for over one-third of our operating budget. I invite you to join me in generously supporting this year’s Appeal.

I want to first speak directly to our virtual community. Every Friday night, I meet someone from Canada, the Midwest, South America or even as far away as New Jersey – who has planned a trip to New York City and made visiting Central a top priority. You tell me how finding Central on-line has given you a Jewish home. We feel blessed that you have chosen to be part of our community. A record number of you chose to honor us with your support last year, and on behalf of our clergy, staff, board and members, I truly thank you. We are so grateful for your past support, and we hope your fellow devoted live streamers will consider starting a new tradition of participation this 5786.

And what can I say to our members? You are extraordinary. Central is a beacon of the Reform Jewish community because of your commitment and contributions, financial and otherwise. It is because of you that Central has been able to maintain and expand its vitality and excellence. While the world can be a harsh and angry place, it is because of your steadfast support that Central remains a haven that celebrates the sweetness and tradition of Judaism, a place where we can beautifully and securely celebrate, pray, learn, and grieve together.

Tonight, I also want to make an additional request. Just as those who came before us made it possible for us to gather here tonight, please consider remembering Central in your estate plans. Central has always been there for us and our families, and I hope that you will want to ensure that it is there for the future generations.

Serving this community is a great honor. As I shared last year, I grew up here – in fact our family recently celebrated its 50th year as members. The greatest privilege I get as President is an up-close view of the dedication shown by our clergy, staff, and congregation. I hear about the quiet acts of kindness that happen every day throughout our Central family. I am constantly moved by your continued willingness to step forward and support this synagogue we all love so much. I thank you for your generosity.

May this new year be one of health, peace and sweetness for you and your loved ones.

Shana Tovah.