President’s Message – Feel the excitement!

by George Gazarek

Last week, I emailed a list of Volunteer Opportunities to the membership. Within a few hours, ten members responded, volunteering to help keep Sha’are Shalom running smoothly. A few days before that, seven members got together to plan a ton of activities for our 25th Anniversary next year.

Sixteen members have volunteered to serve on the Board of Directors spending countless hours throughout the year. Eight members showed up for the Walk to End Homelessness last Saturday. Last Monday, Mark Holt and the Men’s Group set a record with twelve attendees at their monthly dinner. Yesterday morning, seven early risers got together at temple for Torah Study. Today, it was close to standing room only in the Sanctuary as David Hertzbach and Jasha led the children in a prayer service and Torah Reading. Wow!

There’s a buzz in the air. Everywhere I go, members are coming up to me with their ideas on how we can make Sha’are Shalom even better. Last week, Cristie Daymude organized the first ever Aba’s and Ima’s dinner for the Religious School parents. The Women’s Group is planning a great Chanukah party for the congregation. In the next few weeks we’ll be installing a suggestion box in the lobby so you can make suggestions anonymously, if you prefer. Sunday, December 7th is our semiannual membership meeting at 11 am. This is another great opportunity for you to let me and other members of the board know your thoughts and ideas.

We are a sacred family, drawn together by our heritage, our love for Torah and the Jewish people, Am Israel. It’s been fifteen years since I chose to become a Jew. I never dreamed Judaism could be so much fun. I’m having the time of my life. If your Judaism is not a source of great comfort, joy and even fun, then get involved in Sha’are Shalom. Attend Shabbat Services on Fridays and/ or Saturday. Attend one of our many events. And if you get hooked a little, volunteer. Before long, you’ll realize that we are your family and that Sha’are Shalom is your home. I’ll put on the coffee and bring some snacks. Let’s chat.

George