We’ve had a long and storied history with Temple Sinai — beginning with Tot Shabbats with our baby and toddler to Purim carnivals, Havdalah, Chanukkah parties, baby naming, and our first bar mitzvah. Temple Sinai has really given our kids a sense of community and connection to their Judaism.

More than just a religious institution, Temple Sinai is an important part of my and my family’s Jewish life. I feel included and welcome while I enjoy the “community centre” aspect of our synagogue. I participate in activities, attend lectures, and of course, film festivals—all within the context of Reform Judaism. I have also made many good friends through Temple and I treasure that part of my participation.

With a focus on providing musical excellence for over 40 years, Our Musical Legacy series has introduced us to diverse musical offerings from around the world and educated us in the many art forms in which music can be shared.

Our people have many and varied mitzvot, sacred responsibilities. One that colours many others is our responsibility to look hopefully to the future. A hope I have for our people and our community this year is that we have the courage to mix tradition with innovation. We should draw comfort and strength from our Judaism even while it challenges us and we dare to challenge it. We should seek to live in a wide Jewish world that starts with our inner circles and reaches out to all corners of the globe!

When I began organizing the Sinai Connections initiative, I could never have conceived its eventual trajectory, or how it would change my place within Temple. I’ve met wonderful folks on my journey and hope I’ve helped Temple effect some positive change. Standing before hundreds of Temple members at Kol Nidre services, embracing Torah while beholding family and friends was magical. I felt part of something greater than myself. It was a personal “WOW” moment that I will cherish forever.