Jewish Center of Northwest Jersey

In the two and one half years that I have been president, I have gone from some one who had an idea about how our synagogue runs to one who understands that this is a very complicated place. More goes on behind the scenes than I ever thought was possible. The work of our volunteers always amazes me. We have people running around making sure the school is running, the services are prepared, the onegs are hosted, the supplies are ordered, the building is taken care of, that the finances are taken care of and that we have enough money to do all of these things. We have people looking for new members, talking to old members, advertising and publicizing events, educating our adults and teaching us how to do all of this with a Jewish perspective. We teach our congregation to get involved in the outside world, as our involvement in the ambulance and Pups for Peace program have shown, as well as our gathering supplies for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. And we do this with a roster of around 75 families.

It truly amazes me how our small congregation can do so much giving from the heart. If you stopped by at a board meeting, which you are welcome to at any time, you would see 13 people smiling. Even though we have some discussions where we do not agree (see 2 Jews, 3 opinions joke), these board meetings for me are like family reunions. I actually look forward to them because I get to interact with such wonderful people. I truly believe that this all flows from two things, a good strong Jewish background in at least one family member and the teachings of Rabbi Lewis. How our little shul in Washington was able to attract and keep a wonderful rabbi is something that we need to all be very proud of, because she sees the best in us, all the potential we have and is able to bring it out of us.

I want you all to know that I am thankful for everyone who helps out at the temple. This is your gift to me, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Howie