At Temple Beth El, a lot is always happening just beneath the surface – conversations that shift how we think, gatherings that deepen belonging, decisions made with care that shape who we’re becoming.
TBE in Motion is our way of bringing some of that to light. A window into the people and moments behind the life of our community.
We’re starting with someone who has had a front-row seat to all of it this year and whose own experience of TBE has been quietly transformed in the process.
When A-J Secrist stepped into the role of President this year, she expected to deepen her leadership at Temple Beth El. What she didn’t expect was how much it would change the way she experienced the community itself.
This year, that started to shift.
At a TBE Jam event, she found herself connecting with a different part of the community in a way that felt “genuine and energizing.” It was, in her words, “not just social… it was meaningful.” At a SPICE brunch, the experience looked completely different, but landed just as strongly. Conversations about life transitions and aging stayed with her, especially as she reflected on her own stage of life.
“What’s energizing is realizing how intentionally the Temple is creating opportunities for connection and belonging across every stage of life.”
That perspective has also extended behind the scenes.
There was one week in particular that stayed with her. A clergy member was on well-deserved time off. At the same time, the community was navigating a geopolitical moment and multiple losses, while still preparing for b’nei mitzvah readings, writing d’var Torah, and leading the regular rhythm of Temple life. Watching the team step in, support one another, and show up with care across all of it was, she said, both inspiring and eye-opening.
It’s also shaped where her focus is now. A significant part of her energy this season is making sure clergy, staff, and lay leadership have what they need to do this work sustainably as the Temple continues to grow: the right structure, the right support, and an environment where people want to stay and grow with the community.
For many of us, the question of how to engage can feel like one more thing in an already full schedule. A-J understands that.
“I don’t do it all. I try to be intentional about integrating Jewish life into the life I already have.”
It is a small shift, but an important one. “Less about adding something new and more about enriching the time we already spend.”
Even in a moment that can feel uncertain, she is clear about what gives her hope.
She spoke about what she was given. “Jewish laughter,” “Shabbat with love, warmth, and creativity.” And how those moments stayed with her.
And now, she sees that same sense of meaning being built here.
“We are building a community where people feel a true sense of belonging… supported through every stage of life. That is what gives me confidence… we are building something resilient, meaningful, and lasting.”
Curious about this work or have a question? We would love to hear from you.
TBE in Motion is a recurring series featuring the people and moments behind the life of our community.
