President’s Message 12/26/14

     “Eat, Pray, Love” is the title of a popular book and a movie staring Julia Roberts.

     It could almost be the title of the monthly Shabbat Seder at Congregation B’nai Israel. For our Seder, I would change the title to “Pray, Sing, Dance, Laugh”.

     The second Friday evening of each month we meet in our Social Hall for a Shabbat Service led by Rabbi White. The service is followed by a festive dinner, Israeli dancing and singing, lots of laughs and love.

     December’s seder was sponsored by Nadine and Alan Goodban. A good time was had by all. Thank you Nadine and Alan.

     As President of Congregation B’nai Israel (thank you for the honor), my favorite moments are when our Shul is filled with life, with the sounds of praying, singing and laughter filling the building.

     Another such occasion in December was our annual Chanukah party. The Social Hall was filled with members of the B’nai Israel family. The candles on multiple menorahs were lit and we recited the Chanukah blessings. The tables were piled high with latkes and jelly donuts and other good food, These are the good times.

     Along with the joyous times come the more somber moments. December also brought the funerals of Shirley and Walter Bogner. When I joined the Board of Directors over 20 years ago, Walter was one of the leaders. He had been a Past President as well. I was inspired by his dedication to Congregation B’nai Israel and often sought his advice. Shirley sang prayers during the Services with the voice of an angel. She was an angel. Every year they came up to the Bima for an Aliyah during the High Holidays. They will be missed.

     Now, onward to 2015. I look forward to the happy times our congregation will have together, knowing there will be moments of sadness and difficulty.

    May the happy times last long and may the sad times be brief.

Fred

Fred Zola
President
Congregation B’nai Israel
1256 Nebraska Street
Vallejo, Ca. 94590
707-642-6526
bnaisrael.com
fredzola@earthlink.net