Dear Temple Beth El Family,
As we embrace the ongoing growth and development of our beloved Temple Beth El, I am thrilled to share with you a significant milestone that further solidifies the foundation of our congregation.
Rabbi Knight’s Continued Leadership
It fills me with immense joy to announce that our Temple Board of Directors and Rabbi Asher Knight have agreed on a five-year contract extension. We are delighted that Rabbi Knight will remain our Senior Rabbi, a role in which he has excelled for eight years. His tenure as a respected rabbi, mentor, trusted advisor, and spiritual guide has been instrumental in stabilizing and now growing our congregation. With the recent addition of Cantor Danielle Rodnizki, Rabbi Knight has formed a dynamic team of clergy and professionals, propelling our synagogue forward.
A Time for Renewal
Rabbi Knight’s sabbatical, initially postponed due to COVID and our cantorial search, is now scheduled to begin next month. The biblical concept of Shmita, a commandment for the cessation of agricultural activities on the land every seven years, is the foundation for a sabbatical which similarly provides an opportunity for rest, growth, and rejuvenation. During this period, Rabbi Knight will focus on integrating physical well-being with spiritual practices and pursue intellectual endeavors that will enrich both himself and our community. His sabbatical will be in two phases: February 15 to April 2 and May 17 to June 28. This well-deserved break will allow him to spend valuable time with family and engage in deep reflection.
Continued Leadership at Temple
In Rabbi Knight’s absence, our spiritual and pastoral care will be expertly managed by Rabbi Erdheim, Rabbi Nichols, and Cantor Roskin. Rabbi Judy Schindler, our Rabbi Emerita, will also provide her invaluable wisdom and support. Jonathan Friedman, our COO, will ensure the smooth operation of Temple’s day-to-day activities with our talented staff. Working together, the clergy and professional team will maintain our vibrant communal spirit.
Expressing Gratitude
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to you, our Temple Beth El family, for your unwavering support, trust, and active engagement in our synagogue’s life. I am excited and optimistic about our future, a potential brimming with promise and hope. Together, we will continue to build and shape the future of Temple Beth El.
With warmest regards,
Alan Kronovet
President, Temple Beth El
