Monthly Archives: February 2012

Helping the Homeless

Dear Abba, Based on the example that you and Ema set, I pledge to do hands-on work with and for people living in homeless shelters this winter. I am also encouraging my synagogue to reach out even more to the homeless in Bergen County. The Social Action Committee of Congregation B’nai Israel already cooks and serves food for the homeless, and we have many collections for underprivileged folks. Recently, with you in mind, I began exploring the possibility of hosting homeless families in our synagogue building for three non-consecutive weeks per year. We have logistical issues to overcome, and I am not sure when or if this will happen, but the exploration will certainly lead to more awareness and action in the area of gemilut hasadim — thanks to you. Love, “daughter #2”

Debra & Craig’s Wedding

Rav Jehiel marrying the two of us, with his grandson, David, Aviva’s eldest, looking on.

Dear Abba/Jehiel, 
     It’s stunning to think how many services you have led – and, through them, how many lives you have touched. If you multiply the seven wedding blessings times the number of couples you’ve married… the numbers are impressive. We are partial –  and we hope you are, too – to the family weddings you have conducted. Here is a picture of you in action at our wedding. All your bridal couples will recognize the tux, the smile, the warmth, the romantic gleam in your eye. Thanks for helping make it not just a special day, but a sacred one.
Love, Debby and Craig

By: Craig & Debby

Inspiration to Other Rabbis

Jehiel,

Thank you for your many years of service and inspiration.  I remember one teaching that you shared with us at a NJRA meeting somewhere between 13 and 30 years ago while I was in the NJRA region.  You said that in reality, as rabbis, we preach about five sermons in our career.  I now see more clearly the significance of this insight.  It is somewhat like in Pirkei Avot in which Rabbi X says three things.  Obviously Rabbi X said more than three things but is best known for concentrating on those.  So it is with us.

Bob Rubin

By: Robert Rubin

Kindness During Tragedy

I met Rabbi Orenstein when he was in Great Neck for one year covering a sabbatical.  I lost both of my uncles in Great Neck within months of each other.  When the second one died Rabbi Orenstein was already at Beth El and we took my mother there to say Kaddish for her brother.  It was the beginning of a long relationship which has been so fulfilling for me.  In your honor, I will support the SOMA Independent Minyan’s daily minyan once a week.

By: Hilda Pressman