Extend a Hand and Grow our Community

This article first appeared in our Nov/Dec'25 edition of The Bulletin

A Message from Lita Carbone, Director of Administration

I look forward to the “-ber” months each year as a time of reflection. Having the High Holy Days behind us does not mean we turn away from deeper meaning and purpose. As we enter November and December of the secular calendar, it’s easy to get caught up in the dinners, the planning, the gifts, the travel drama, the “this and that” of the season. Despite the craziness of it all, I look forward to spending time with family, friends, and our community

As Theo and I light our Chanukiah each year, I feel a wave of emotion come over me. We recite the nightly prayer, always stealing a kiss by the candlelight, and embrace as we admire the beautiful candles. As the glow increases each night, I reflect. I stare into the dancing flames above each candle and admire our strength. L’dor v’dor. In spite of it all, we are still here from generation to generation.

While we have had many changes this past year and new faces have joined our office, I hold the unwavering belief that together we can do amazing things through a love of Judaism and connection with one another. Your partnership is why the staff and clergy are here. We are grateful for each and every one of you.

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks is quoted as saying, “Never believe that a handful of dedicated people can’t change the world. Inspired by faith, they can. The Maccabees did then. So can we today.” Beth Emeth has a long history of incredible lay leadership that helps provide many opportunities for our members to connect. Checking in guests at the High Holy Days, working the table at the Chanukah Bazaar, cooking and serving a congregational dinner, handing out meals at the Soup Kitchen, delivering a bag for those mourning a loved one, or organizing our immense Archives.

Each opportunity we take to extend a hand and offer a “How can I help?” solidifies the growth of our community. Many people within our community and beyond are facing challenges, whether it be financially, mentally, health concerns, battling loneliness, or many more reasons that we cannot begin to comprehend.

Our most valued team member here at Congregation Beth Emeth is YOU. While we look at the many blessings that life holds for us, we should also look at what blessings and kindness we can give to others.