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Dear Members of Or Chadash,
Two years ago, I stepped into a role that was completely new to me - President of the Board of Trustees at Or Chadash. This role has provided me with a new perspective on what happens at Or Chadash, and with new opportunities to contribute to the temple’s success.
We had our annual Congregational Meeting last week, and shared highlights from the past year. The slideshow of photos really brought back wonderful memories from my term as president that I will keep with me for the rest of my life.
I can close my eyes, and clearly see the faces of our members in Zoom services. They are connecting with each other and with their Jewish identity by participating in the service.
Next, I see our Board of Trustees meeting virtually, working diligently, and collaborating on temple activities and how we can further adapt to the challenges of life during the pandemic. I have such a respect for this dedicated group of volunteers, it is hard for me to adequately communicate it. The time and effort these amazing people have committed to making Or Chadash what it is, is just inspiring.
I blink and can see a girl at the Bima reading from the Torah for the first time, with her parents behind her, Rabbi Forman on one side, and Cantor Kathy on the other. I see the joy of a Bat Mitzvah being shared with the family and our congregation, and I had the privilege of presenting gifts from our Board to the bat mitzvah.
Another blink and it’s Passover. We have our virtual Seder, and we are in each other’s houses again, sharing the occasion with each other.
Next, I see the children of our congregation, in the classrooms at Or Chadash, learning Hebrew and learning about their Jewish heritage.
The memories keep coming. Mitzvah Day, author visits, Hanukkah services, adult education, High Holy Days… There are so many more images I have in my head – so many memories I will take away from my time as president. I am proud and humbled that I have played a role in making Or Chadash the welcoming synagogue that it is. I look forward to continuing to be a part of this wonderful, supportive community.
We have a new president taking over now, Dan Freedman. I have no doubt he will do a great job in leading our Board of Trustees to grow and nurture Or Chadash. Our Board of Trustees, led by Dan, will continue to help us accomplish our mission, which is to be a temple that offers a caring and inclusive congregation that prays together, builds Jewish community through acts of Tikkun Olam, shares life's events and provides education for all ages.
Thank you for being a part of Or Chadash and for giving me this opportunity to contribute.
- Glenn Wasserman
“Immediate Past President”
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