Evolution

Steven Chizzik, President

I am “kvelling” at the number of new members who have joined our synagogue in the past two years. I am proud to say that despite COVID viruses and hurricanes, Beth Tikvah of Naples is thriving. New members are the lifeblood of any organization. There are many reasons for this and many people have helped to create an atmosphere where people want to be a part of Beth Tikvah. What’s really interesting to me is that Beth Tikvah is drawing a very wide spectrum of new members.

Some people come to our synagogue for the warmth and sense of community I know we portray. Others come for the religious services and Rabbi Chorny’s sermons and teachings. Some come for the multitude of programs and wonderful speakers and lecturers, while others just come for our world famous kiddushim in our beautiful outdoor garden!

As just one example: this years’ Hanukah celebration brought everyone together as Harvey Jacobson entertained with his beautiful accordion renditions of Hanukah “freilech.” Personally, I think it’s Beth Tikvah’s complete package of all the above. Beth Tikvah has something to offer everyone!

Our recent Shabbat services had 75 people in attendance, with newcomers and visitors every week. Our Scholar in Residence weekends are in huge demand and our in-house lecturers offer the most enlightening discussions.

I would be remiss if I didn’t thank Jewish Federation of Greater Naples for its financial support for some of these programs. The Jewish community in Naples works especially well together.

This Emily Dickinson poem embraces our synagogues’ success:

Success is Counted Sweetest

(written in 1859)

Success is counted sweetest By those who ne’er succeed. To comprehend a nectar Requires sorest need.

Not one of all the purple Host Who took the Flag today Can tell the definition So clear of victory

As he defeated – dying –On whose forbidden ear The distant strains of triumph Burst agonized and clear!

Naples Film Festival

Our 10th annual Naples Film Festival is, of course, our highlight event of the year. It is extra special this year, as it returns to the Sudgen Theatre with some very timely movies. I know the theater will be overflowing. Please see the calendar below to view all the great events that are taking place at Beth Tikvah this month.

New member offer

I would like to remind everyone that Beth Tikvah is now offering new members their first year’s dues free of charge. If you or a friend wishes to experience the warmth and community found at Beth Tikvah, please join us.

Beth Tikvah happenings

• March 2 – Speaker Series: Neil Adelman, 7:30 p.m.

• March 4 – Haddasah Shabbat, 9:30 a.m.

• March 6 – Magillah Reading and Purim Party, 6 p.m.

• March 10-12 – Scholar-In-Residence: Dr. Roberta Kwali

• March 15 – Poznansky Wellness program, 1 p.m.

• March 19 – Rosh Chodesh Women’s Study, 10 a.m.

• Every Tuesday – Rabbi Chorny’s Lunch and Learn via Zoom, 12:15 p.m.

• Friday services begin at 6:15 p.m. in person and via Zoom

• Saturday services begin at 9:30 a.m. in person and via Zoom

• Sunday morning services begin at 9 a.m. in person and via Zoom

• We convene Yahrzeit minyanim upon request.

Please check the Beth Tikvah website, www.bethtikvahnaples.org, for details of all our events.

You may reach Rabbi Chorny directly at 239-537-5257.

Beth Tikvah is the affiliated congregation in Greater Naples of United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ). We are grateful to the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples (JFGN) for support of our Scholar in Residence, Naples Jewish Film Festival and All Things Jewish programs.