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After a busy summer filled with Religious School open houses, community gatherings, and events for our Men’s Group, Women’s Group, and Youth Group, we welcomed August with even more opportunities for fun, food, friendship, and connection.
This past Friday night was a wonderful example of what makes Congregation Ner Tamid so special. Thanks to the generous support of a Gather Grant from the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, we gathered for a warm and wonderful BBQ Shabbat—which I affectionately call “Sha-BBQ!”
Our guests came from near and far—including as far away as Grant Park in Atlanta—to share in the evening with us. After a delicious BBQ dinner, we filled the sanctuary for an energetic Shabbat service led by Rabbi Prass. The service had full participation of our CNT students, as well as several former students who have remained connected. We were especially delighted to welcome new families and guests and to share the warmth, spirit, and inclusiveness that define our congregation.
On Sunday, we kicked off another exciting year of Religious School with new teachers and new families. A bagel and fruit breakfast gave parents, students, and our Religious School staff an opportunity to gather, reconnect, and begin the new school year together.
And we are just getting started! August is packed with opportunities to connect, including Torah Study, a Youth Group Lock-In, and our Brownies and Bingo night later this month.
As we prepare for the High Holidays and bring the year 5786 to a close, I find myself reflecting on just how much our community has accomplished. And I believe we are ending the year on a very high note.
- We are a community that is growing.
- We are a community that is becoming increasingly visible—not only within the Jewish community, but throughout the greater Atlanta community.
- We are a community that is expanding our vision for Religious School, creating more opportunities for our children and families to learn, connect, and experience Judaism beyond the classroom.
- And we are a community that knows how to create a warm and welcoming Shabbat—one where a guest can walk through our doors and leave already looking forward to coming back.
The strength of Congregation Ner Tamid has never been just about a building, a program, or a calendar of events. It is about people. It is about families showing up from near and far, welcoming one another, sharing experiences, and creating something meaningful together.
We have momentum. We have energy. And most importantly, we have a community that cares.
I am excited about what we have accomplished, and even more excited about what lies ahead.
With a focus on Community,
Matt Berenson
President
Congregation Ner Tamid
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