Are we there yet?

Steven Chizzik, President

Are we there yet? Yes, that’s the question everyone asks when you set out on a journey. I am happy to report that yes, we have arrived. So much had to be done and so many changes and adaptations had to be made along the way, but yes, we have arrived!

There is so much energy at Beth Tikvah. Those of us who have been attending services since the in-person reopening are feeling it. I even think those attending via Zoom can feel the increase of energy. There is real “Ruach” during each Shabbat service! And there is real “Ruach” after the service as we have resumed a modified kiddush that has allowed us to socialize with our friends once again. I want to especially thank our Reopening Task Force for its wisdom in making sure all attendees are vaccinated. It has allowed everyone in attendance to feel safe.

We can’t wait for our Beth Tikvah family to enter our synagogue for the upcoming High Holidays. In addition to the Sanctuary being more aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, we expect our Holiday services to be quite memorable. Rabbi Chorny will continue to inspire us with his wisdom as he has done each year. In addition, we are very privileged to have Cantor Norman Brody joining us. Cantor Brody is a very accomplished Chazan who will bring his beautiful voice to our Holiday services. I know everyone will be excited to pray together and listen to our dynamic duo!

An enormous effort has also been made to bring great programming to Beth Tikvah. Please keep Sunday afternoon, Dec. 5 clear on your calendar. State attorney for the 13th District of Florida (Tampa area), Andrew Warren, will be at Beth Tikvah to discuss antisemitism. I’ve had the privilege of listening to State Attorney Warren speak on this topic. I can only say he was so dynamic that I immediately asked him to come to Beth Tikvah. This event will be co-sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. Please follow our website to see all the exciting happenings being scheduled at Beth Tikvah for the new season ahead.

There are many people working very hard to make Beth Tikvah a very special place; it is truly a team effort. We always have room for more people to participate. If you have energy and a few available hours, please let me know. We could use more great ideas and assistance.

I would also like to remind everyone that Beth Tikvah is now offering new members their fi rst year’s dues free of charge. We are all ambassadors for Beth Tikvah. If you know a friend or a Jewish resident in your development who might want to experience the warmth and community found at Beth Tikvah, please invite them to come experience our special congregation.

I look forward to seeing everyone at our High Holiday services either in person or by Zoom. Please also consider joining us for our Break Fast following the Neilah service on Yom Kippur.

L’Shanah Tovah U’Metukah, a sweet and healthy New Year to all!

High Holy Days Services

Monday, Sept. 6 at 6:15 p.m. – Erev Rosh Hashana Tuesday, Sept. 7 at 9 a.m. – Rosh Hashana Wednesday, Sept. 8 at 9 a.m. – Rosh Hashana Wednesday, Sept. 15 at 6:15 p.m. – Kol Nidre Thursday, Sept. 16 at 9 a.m. – Yom Kipper

Thursday, Sept. 16 at 8:30 p.m. – Break Fast Monday, Sept. 20 at 6:15 p.m. – Erev Succot Tuesday, Sept. 21 at 9:30 a.m. – Succot Tuesday, Sept. 28 at 6:15 p.m. – Simchat Torah Wednesday, Sept. 29 at 9:30 a.m. – Yizkor