Hineni – Here I Am: A Call to Engage and a Thank You to Those Who Do 

“A community is too heavy for anyone to carry alone.” – Deuteronomy Rabbah 1:10 

Our congregation thrives because of those who say Hineni—“I’m here.” 

We want to express our heartfelt gratitude. 

To those who prepare food, check people in, and help in the kitchen during Share Shabbat—thank you. 

To those who generously cook for Kiddush luncheons on Saturday mornings—thank you. 

To those who come in early or stay late to set up and clean up for programs and events—thank you. Your behind-the-scenes work makes everything possible. 

To those who step in to lead services, offer divrei Torah, read from the Torah, and lead learning sessions—thank you. Your voices bring our sacred texts to life and help us connect with our tradition. 

To those who make Temple a welcoming place, greeting people at the door, sitting with newcomers, and approaching those who arrive alone—thank you. Your presence makes a world of difference. 

To those who make caring calls, visit fellow congregants, prepare and deliver mitzvah meals, send cards, or assist with small tasks—thank you. Your efforts through Caring Connections ease burdens and bring light to others. 

To those of you who serve on our board or are part of a committee—thank you. You are the backbone of our community. 

To those involved with the Jewish Cultural Festival (JCF), who chair committees, volunteer, and financially support the event—thank you. Your participation makes this a vibrant celebration of Jewish life, education, and community, while also supporting our congregation as a fundraiser. 

For all of this and more that remains unlisted—thank you. You may not always be seen, but your impact is deeply felt. 

This is what it means to be part of a Jewish community: not just showing up, but showing up for each other. 

And if you haven’t yet found your place to contribute, now is the time. 

The prophet Isaiah says: Hineini shlacheni—“Here I am, send me” (Isaiah 6:8). This phrase isn’t just about leadership; it’s about readiness. It’s about stepping forward when there’s work to be done, when someone needs a helping hand, when the community calls. 

Right now, there are many ways to get involved: 

• Passover Seder – With Passover on the horizon, help prepare for our second-night seder, setting up the space and helping to serve dinner. Your help is invaluable. 

• April 26 Interfaith Event – Help decorate our space and create a welcoming atmosphere for our guests from the interfaith community. 

• World Zionist Congress Election – Spread the word, answer questions, and teach others how to vote for the Vote Reform slate to ensure a democratic, pluralistic, and secure Israel. 

• Social Action – Serve meals at St. Vincent de Paul from 12-2 on the first Sunday of the month. 

• Life & Legacy – Play a role on the committee in ensuring a strong future for our congregation through planned giving. 

• Ritual Life – Whether leading a service, offering a d’var Torah, reading Torah, providing music, or being an extra pair of hands, we need volunteers for lay-led services this summer. 

• Jewish Cultural Festival (JCF) – Help plan, set up, fundraise, or run this major event that brings Jewish culture, food, music, and education to the wider community. 

Every act of service, no matter how big or small, strengthens our synagogue and deepens our shared connection. This is what it means to be a kehillah kedoshah, a sacred community—not because of a building, but because of the people who sustain it. 

A community is too heavy for anyone to carry alone—but together, we lift each other up. 

So—will you answer the call? Will you say Hineni? 

Reach out to me or to the Temple office, and we will match your interests with opportunities to serve. 

Chag Purim Sameach!