A MESSAGE FROM OUR CNT PRESIDENT

This past Sunday, Congregation Ner Tamid proudly hosted a booth at the 50th Annual Big Shanty Festival in Kennesaw. Positioned in a prime location in front of the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, we had the opportunity to engage with thousands of people who passed by throughout the weekend.

I’ll be honest—going into the event, there was a sense of trepidation. We are living in a time when antisemitism feels more visible and concerning than it has in many years. Several people voiced understandable concerns about what it might mean to be so openly and visibly Jewish in a public space.

What we experienced, however, was something entirely different—and deeply encouraging.

Time and again, people approached our booth with curiosity, warmth, and genuine interest. Many stopped to learn more about our synagogue and religious school. Others shared how meaningful it was to see a Jewish presence at the festival, expressing support and appreciation for our participation.

Families, children, and individuals of all ages joined in the simple joy of spinning our prize wheel—adorned with the CNT Star of David—and walked away smiling. These small but meaningful interactions created moments of connection that reminded us why visibility matters.

Simply put, Congregation Ner Tamid is meeting a real and important need in our community.

Despite the noise of headlines and the weight of negativity that can so often dominate our attention, the truth we experienced firsthand is clear: there is a place—and a need—for what we offer.

There is a need for a welcoming space where families can gather to pray, celebrate life’s milestones, and support one another through both joyful and challenging times. There is a need for connection, identity, and community.

This weekend was more than an outreach effort—it was a reaffirmation of our purpose.

I could not be more proud to serve as President of our regional synagogue, supporting individuals and families across more than six counties and the many communities within them. Together, we are building something meaningful, visible, and needed.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by, shared a conversation, or simply smiled in support. These moments matter—and they move us forward.

With a focus on YOUR Community,

Matt Berenson

President, Congregation Ner Tamid

We invite you to join us for Shabbat Services

Friday evenings at 7:30 pm.

Our upcoming Shabbat services will be led by:

April 24 - Rob Goldstein

May 1 - Rabbi Prass

Sisterhood Art Hatch - Smith Gilbert Gardens

Saturday, April 25 at 10:00 am

Celebrate the arts with live music, theater performances by KSU, visual and performing artist demonstrations, arts and crafts, and a scavenger hunt throughout Smith-Gilbert Gardens. Guests are invited to create their own artwork while enjoying a festival atmosphere.

We will be meeting at 10:00 am and enjoying the festivities, then gathering for lunch afterward at a restaurant near the Gardens. The cost is $10 per person (we will be purchasing our entry tickets at Smith-Gilbert). If you will be joining us, please let us know at membership@mynertamid.org, particularly if you will be coming to lunch.

We are looking forward to a fun afternoon!

Mommy & Me

Sunday, May 3 at 10:30 am

Please RSVP to membership@mynertamid.org!

End of School Year Community Picnic

Lost Mountain Park

Sunday, May 17 at 10:00 am

To close out another great school year, the whole community is invited meet at Lost Mountain Park, 4845 Dallas Highway in Powder Springs, from 10:00am to 12:00pm for a Community Picnic. (As you turn in to the park, go straight and the picnic pavilion is on the right hand side next to the playground.)

We will have a short morning prayer service followed by a craft, lawn games, and grilled hot dogs and hamburgers. Please view the sign-up genius HERE to bring something to share! If you have any outdoor games you would like to bring, please feel free!

Dine & Discuss

Friday, June 12 at 6:30 pm

Bring a “brown bag” dinner and join Rabbi Prass for an interesting pre-service discussion!

CALLING ALL GRADUATES!

Do you have an upcoming graduation in the family? We'd love to feature your graduate in Chai Lights! Please forward names and pictures to communications@mynertamid.org.

COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS

Bagel Rescue

In March we had a fantastic experience (once again!) volunteering with Bagel Rescue! The room was full of energy - lots of chatter and socializing as we packed bagels for communities in need.

Big Shanty Festival

We had a great time last weekend at the Kennesaw Big Shanty Festival where we met so many interesting and wonderful people!