Courtesy of Keith Levit

Screen Shot 2024-09-17 at 4.38.58 PM.png

Dear Friends,

As we approach the anniversary of October 7, we are reflecting on the ancient words from our ancestors:

הַמָּקוֹם יְנַחֵם אֶתְכֶם בְּתוֹךְ שְׁאָר אֲבֵלֵי צִיּוֹן וִירוּשָׁלַיִם
“May God comfort you amongst all the mourners of Jerusalem and Zion.”
These words are recited at our funerals, and as we welcome grieving families into services on Shabbat evening.

Now we are all mourners of Zion.

In our collective devastation, we are comforted by community, just as prescribed by those words. As we mourn, we have been looking to our partners in the conservative movement for the very comfort and strength we wish for our fellow Jews during mourning. This comfort and strength allow us to rely on our values. We are proud to be a conservative, egalitarian congregation, affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, unconditionally believing in the right of the Jewish people to self-determination in our ancestral homeland, Israel.

We are grounded in over 3500 years of Jewish tradition, and the relationship between the Jewish People and our Land, as manifested in our Torah. This has been our blessing, our calling and where we stand, together as Congregation Etz Chayim with the State and the People of Israel.

While we face the High Holy Day season with heavy hearts, we are filled with hope for peace and security for Ahm Israel. We will continue to support our people, stand strong and proudly Jewish, united in prayer and community. May we all be inscribed in the “Book of Life”.

L’Shalom,

Rabbi Kliel, Spiritual Leader
Tracy Kasner, Cantor
Sabrina Bokser, President
Allan Cogan, Vice President
Avrom Charach, Immediate Past President
Jonathan Buchwald, Executive Director

SHALOM

Congregation Etz Chayim - Finding Meaning in life through Jewish experience & exploration Torah, Prayer, and Tradition are our central pillars enabling all of us to encounter moments of transcendence within our Congregation Etz Chayim Mishpacha/family.

We offer a rich and diverse array of services and programs to our members, visitors, and the Jewish Community at large. Everyone is welcome to join our inclusive, warm, and friendly Kehilla (community).

Torah is our treasure chest for life lessons and guidance. From our children to our seniors, our congregants embrace Torah through thoughtful study, personal reflection, and interactive exploration.

Gemilut Chasadim (acts of lovingkindness) provides an opportunity to live a life of Torah imbued with purpose by performing acts of charity. Assisting those in need is the root of our pride.

What sets us apart from others is a recognition that each person is searching for greater meaning. We embrace the individual’s spiritual journey accompanying and supporting each person. This is one of our greatest joys here at the synagogue that bears the name - Tree of Life.

Join us and help us grow; partner with us to do more good in this world; embrace a life of genuine spiritual exploration with Congregation Etz Chayim.