Dear Temple Beth El Family,
As we stand at the cusp of a new year, I am filled with contemplation and hopeful anticipation. This moment offers us a chance to reflect on the year that has passed—a year that has, undoubtedly, tested our strength and resilience. In the face of challenges, we have witnessed the unyielding strength of our community, the power of spiritual well-being in our lives, and the determination to live proudly as Jews.
Our community has come together in powerful moments, from times of joy, like our 80th Anniversary celebration where we honored Emily and Sam Zimmern and raised over $250,000 for the Temple, to moments of grief, like our community vigil following October 7, from moments of fun like our 80’s Dance Party to moments of pride like when we repaired 5 of our Torahs. We have had large events, but equally important have been the personal joys and quiet moments of care and concern where we have shown each other love and support.
Many of us find ourselves reflecting as a New Year approaches. It’s why we make resolutions. With the promise of a fresh start, I want to invite you to consider a commitment to your own spiritual well-being in 2024. In my time at Temple Beth El, I have had the opportunity to think about what spiritual well-being means, and I have shared a bit of my thinking below.
The Essence of Spiritual Well-Being
Spiritual well-being is a journey of aligning our inner selves with our actions and relationships. It’s about finding meaning and purpose, about feeling connected to our Jewish heritage, to each other, and to the greater good. This alignment brings contentment and fulfillment, enhancing our lives and the community around us. In our faith tradition, we find a rich reservoir of wisdom and guidance to help us navigate this journey. Our rituals, teachings, and community activities are not just traditions; they are pathways to understanding ourselves and our place in the world. Our Temple Beth El clergy team are incredible teachers to guide us in exploring our rich heritage to help you navigate your life in our increasingly complex world.
Judaism, with its profound teachings and rich heritage, provides us with a unique lens through which to view our spiritual well-being. It teaches us the value of mindfulness, the power of forgiveness, and the joy of giving selflessly. These are not just spiritual concepts but practical guides that can transform our everyday experiences. Our faith is a time-tested path that enlightens and enriches, offering us a way to live lives that resonate with our deepest values and beliefs.
Engage and Grow
So, what can we do as we embark on this new year? In short, find something at Temple that resonates for you. Below, I invite you to engage with just a sample of the myriad opportunities we offer for spiritual growth and community connection, but if you can’t find something meaningful for you, please let us know!
- For Everyone: Join or start a TriBE, a small group where deep connections are forged. Explore community service at our Mitzvah Market, or join us for a Shabbat or holiday service. For personal guidance, our clergy team is always here for you. Just email or call us at (704)366-1948 to find a time to connect.
- For Parents: Sunday Stumpers (led by Rabbi Nichols) is a time to learn, share, and discuss the multifaceted joys and challenges of parenting. Meeting monthly during Religious School, this is a time kvell, kvetch, and learn together in our journeys as parents and caregivers. If you’re a family with young children, consider joining us for a Porch event, with program designed especially for our little ones and their grownups.
- For Young Adults: Participate in TBE Jam events, like our Backyard Bunch hosted by Rabbi Erdheim, a great opportunity for socializing, discussing, and connecting.
- For Seniors: Spice, one of our most vibrant programs, offers engaging speakers, delicious food, and a warm community that gathers twice a month.
- For Teens: Join LIBERTY, our teen youth group, for fun and friendship at our monthly events.
- For Women: Attend one of the exciting events planned by our women’s community leadership team, designed to enrich and inspire.
- For Men: Our Brotherhood offers fun events, inspiring programs, and lots of opportunities for friendship. From hosting Sunday brunches like the upcoming one with Charlotte sportswriter Scott Fowler, to lifting up the Temple and broader community with opportunities to serve, this is a group that cares for each other and all of us.
At Temple Beth El, we believe every individual is a vital part of our tapestry. You are seen, you are valued, and you are loved. Your participation and presence enrich our community, making Temple Beth El a special place.
Looking Ahead with Hope and Joy
As we step into this new year, let us do so with open hearts and minds. Let’s embrace the opportunities for growth, the joys of our shared experiences, and the strength of our community bonds. Together, let’s make this year a testament to our resilience, our faith, and our commitment to each other.
With love, hope, and anticipation for what the new year brings,
Jonathan Friedman, Chief Operating Officer
