Today is January 12, 2025 -
Today is January 12, 2025 -
611 First Street, Macon, GA 31201
Phone: (478) 745-4571
Email: secretary@csimacon.org
Passover commemorates the exodus of the Jews from slavery in Egypt. Ultimately, it is a celebration of freedom and rebirth. And while plenty of good food abounds at the Seder table, there are certain dietary requirements or restrictions that are followed as well. As we celebrate we are also mindful of the bitter tears of Continue Reading »
Many years ago, the rabbi who presided over my conversion to Judaism, while seated at his desk leaned forward and looked me squarely in the eyes. He said, “You do realize you are willingly about to join a group of people that others for eons of time have generally despised throughout history?” I said yes Continue Reading »
This is a picture of a beautiful Luna Moth who graced the outside of a window in my house one evening. Most of it’s life is spent as a caterpillar, then in a cocoon, finally emerging as an adult moth. But it only lives about one week and doesn’t have a mouth or Continue Reading »
So somewhere between the remaining days of Hanukkah and 2017, the flu “bug” decided to call my body home! Being highly allergic to one of the preservatives in the flu shot I’m unable to receive it. Luckily, I have been fortunate over the years not to catch the virus but once in childhood and Continue Reading »
So, almost time for Hanukkah again! A comparatively minor holiday on the Jewish calendar, yet with significance also. It evokes thoughts of lighting the Hanukkiah, enjoying latkes and doughnuts fried in oil, chocolate gelt, gifts, an ancient victory and miracles! When a small band of faithful Jews defeated one of the mightiest armies and drove Continue Reading »
This time of year is filled with endings and new beginnings. Recently, we said goodbye to a year just passed as we reflected on 5776. The new Jewish New Year of 5777 arrived and we wished each other well at services with joyous greetings of L’Shanah Tovah! Simchat Torah, a holiday marking the completion of Continue Reading »
Well the High Holidays or “Hi Ho’s” as they are affectionally called are upon us once again! There is a flurry of activity at the shul…changing out Torah covers to their Holiday adornments, final edits to the upcoming Directory, updating the Yizkor book, procuring Torah and Haftorah readers, lining up gabbaim, aliyot honors, and security Continue Reading »
A famous quote is “No man is an island” and here at Congregation Sha’arey Israel that is a good thing. Since our earliest days as a congregation, our efforts and growth as a synagogue has been reliant on teamwork. You know…the “together we can move mountains” mentality. Perhaps it sounds a bit cheesy, but it’s Continue Reading »
The long, hot days of summer seem endless…but of course time marches on. If we are blessed to live out a generous number of years and get a perspective of the big picture, what is really important is recognizable. For most this includes family, friendships, compassion, health, perseverance, joys, knowledge, and faith. Our conscious mind Continue Reading »
At the synagogue, we just wrapped up the close of another fun, educational, and eventful Religious School year. We also had our Annual Congregational Meeting. As I noted in my President’s remarks, one of the positive qualities found in smaller congregations is certainly the warm fellowship of familiar faces. What can be challenging for leadership Continue Reading »