Lifecycle Events
At Temple Beth El, we are here for you through all of life’s moments—times of joy, transition, and remembrance. Our clergy and community are ready to support you, guide you, and celebrate with you as you mark these sacred milestones. Whether you’re welcoming a new baby, preparing for a wedding, or seeking comfort in times of loss, we are honored to be part of your journey.
If you are a member and have had a recent lifecycle event that you would like us to know about, please call 704.749.3043.
If you are in need of pastoral support, please call our clergy on call phone at 704.576.5073. If it is a medical emergency, please dial 911.
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Recent Lifecycle Events
We Mourn the Passing Of:
Larrie Hurst, husband of Susan Hurst, father of Andrew (Dena) Hurst, Adam (Michaela) Hurst, and Hilary (Andrew) Annunzio,
and grandfather of Rachel, David and William Hurst, Heidi and Harry Hurst, and Leo and Arlo Annunzio on March 16, 2025.
Joel Freedman, husband of Barbara Freedman, father of Tama (Warren) Thune and Dr. Seth (Jennifer) Freedman,
and grandfather of Sydney and Max Thune and Henry and Matthew Freedman on March 4, 2025.
Jerald Cohen, father of Joni (Jessie) Cohen, Joel Cohen, Jessie (Ramon) Valencia, and Guy (Laura) Cohen, and grandfather of Sophie Cohen, Sid Cohen (z’l”), Ben Cohen, Tobin Valencia, Brooklyn Valencia, Miles Cohen and Abe Cohen on February 21, 2025.
Sylvia Heller, wife of Arthur Heller (z’l”), former wife of Leonard Fine (z’l”), mother of Howard (Marcia) Fine, William (Adele) Fine, and Nancy (David) Albert, grandmother of 7 grandchildren and great-grandmother of 12 great-grandchildren on February 20, 2025.
Mazal Tov to:
Eileen Libove and Scott Lindsay on the birth of their daughter, Victoria Jane Lindsay, on January 19, 2025. Big brother is Ethan Lindsay and grandparents are Joel and Barbara Libove and Rick and Rose Ann Lindsay.
Welcoming a Child
Mazel Tov! Bringing a child into the world is a moment of pure joy, and Temple Beth El is here to help you celebrate with meaningful Jewish traditions. Whether you are welcoming a baby boy with a Brit Milah (Bris) or embracing a new child with a Baby Naming or Brit Bat, our clergy will help create a ceremony that reflects your family’s story. These moments can take place at home, at Temple Beth El, or in a setting that feels right for you.
No matter your background—whether you are interfaith, same-sex parents, or expanding your family through adoption—you are part of our Temple Beth El family.
B'nei Mitzvah
The journey to B’nei Mitzvah is about so much more than chanting Torah—it’s about discovering what it means to be part of a Jewish community. Through learning, prayer, and acts of tikkun olam (repairing the world), students take on this sacred responsibility with the support of our clergy, educators, and mentors. Preparation begins years in advance, ensuring each student feels ready to take their place on the bimah with confidence and pride.
Consecration and Confirmation
- Consecration: Each year on Simchat Torah, we joyfully welcome our youngest Religious School learners as they take their first steps into Jewish education. With songs, blessings, and a special Torah scroll of their own, these children begin their lifelong Jewish learning journey.
- Confirmation: In 10th grade, students deepen their Jewish identity through study, service, and community building. A highlight of the year is a powerful weekend trip that strengthens their connection to Jewish values and each other. The year culminates in a meaningful Shabbat service where students affirm their commitment to Judaism.
Marriage and Weddings
Love is at the heart of Jewish life, and Temple Beth El is honored to celebrate your commitment. Whether you’re planning a wedding, a vow renewal, or an anniversary blessing, our clergy will work with you to craft a ceremony that is joyful, inclusive, and deeply meaningful. We welcome and celebrate couples of all backgrounds, including interfaith and same-sex couples, and look forward to marking this sacred moment with you.
To schedule a clergy consultation, call 704.749.3043.
End of Life and Mourning
In times of loss, Temple Beth El is here to offer comfort, guidance, and support. Our clergy provide compassionate care, helping families navigate Jewish mourning traditions, plan funerals, and honor loved ones through shiva and memorial gatherings. We also work closely with Charlotte’s Hebrew Cemetery and offer volunteer support through Chevrah Kadisha, the sacred Jewish burial society.
If you experience a loss, please call 704.749.3043 as soon as possible so our clergy can support you.
Healing and Community Care
Jewish tradition teaches us that we are never alone. When illness, grief, or life’s challenges arise, our Hineynu: We Are Here caring community steps in to offer meals, companionship, and emotional support. We also hold quarterly healing services to provide comfort and connection for those in need.
For more information on our caring initiatives, please contact Renata Rosenberg, Clergy Assistant, at 704.749.3043.
Yahrzeits and Memorials
The memory of a loved one is a blessing, and at Temple Beth El, we honor those who came before us. We read the names of those we are remembering during Shabbat services on the anniversary of their passing. If you would like a name included in our Yahrzeit readings, please contact us by Thursday at 5:00pm before the desired Shabbat service.
Yahrzeit candles are available for purchase in the Discovered Traditions Gift Shop.
