Rabbi's Messages
September - October, 2025
Shalom all,
We live in an age of constant alerts. Phones chirp at us, headlines shout at us, and emails clamor for our attention. Noise is the default setting. Yet as the month of Elul unfolds and the High Holy Days approach, we are invited to hear a very different kind of summons — the ancient, unpolished cry of the shofar.
The shofar is not a melody. It is not even music in the usual sense. It is a raw, primal sound — as Rabbi Art Green wrote, “a wordless voice that speaks directly to the soul, bypassing the intellect entirely.” It is not there to be analyzed. It is there to be felt.
In our tradition, the shofar calls us to teshuvah. Often translated as “repentance,” it more accurately means to turn, to return, or to re-align our lives with our deepest values. But in a noisy world, this turning requires discernment. The shofar’s voice is not the loudest sound we hear; it is simply the most visceral. Its urgency comes not from volume but from meaning. But we can only set the stage for you. Temple Sinai’s brand of Collaborative Judaism means that you have to not only show up but also be ready to work towards personal growth while you’re with us.
Rabbi Rami Shapiro teaches that “Teshuvah is not about becoming someone else, but about remembering who you already are.” Our High Holiday season does not wash away sin nor absolve us of our past choices – it provides a space in which we look right at the reflection in the mirror and have a deep conversation with what we see looking back.
In the days ahead, the shofar will sound again in our sanctuary. My prayer is that you will hear it not as an interruption to your day, but as an invitation — an opening to pause in the cacophony of life and listen for the still, small voice within. That inner voice does not compete with headlines. It will not go viral and has no associated memes. But it will tell you which relationships need healing, which words need speaking, and which silences need breaking. It will remind you that life is finite and holy, and that the year ahead is a gift placed gently in your hands for you to do with as you choose. What will you choose?
This world places enormous demands on us, and it seems to be only getting more challenging. As it tries to pull us away from each other, the themes of the Jewish holidays work to bring us closer to each other by expressing our truest selves. May we have the courage to answer the shofar’s call, to carve out pockets of quiet in which its echo can take root, and to step into the new year ready not only to hear, but to respond.
Shanah tovah u’metukah — a sweet, good year to you and all you love.
Rabbi Jay TelRav
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President's Messages
september - october, 2025
The Sacred Work of Leadership and Service
One of the highest callings of congregational life is volunteerism — the sacred act of dedicating time and talent for the good of the community. Within the realm of volunteering at Temple Sinai, serving as a trustee — a commitment to lead with care, integrity, and love for our congregation — is a true mitzvah.
Our trustees serve as your representatives, working closely with our clergy and professional staff. They help guide the direction of Temple Sinai through thoughtful governance, strategic decision-making, financial oversight, and policy decisions. In recent months, the Board has discussed, provided input to, and approved a strategic plan and the 2025-2026 Budget, and discussed evolving security considerations for the Temple.
Each trustee also commits to active participation as chairs or members of committees, task forces, and Circles, bringing their skills and energy to all aspects of temple life. At the beginning of each term, every trustee signs a brit (covenant), affirming their dedication to representing our congregation faithfully, exemplifying Jewish values, and contributing to the strength of our kehillah kedoshah (sacred community).
Trustees serve three-year terms, renewable once. Each year, the Nominating Committee, which includes representatives from the Board, Sisterhood, Brotherhood, and the broader congregation (along with the President as an ex officio member), carefully assembles a slate to fill open positions that reflects our temple's diversity and values. They seek candidates who bring a range of experiences, both from within and outside Temple Sinai, and who are deeply committed to our shared mission.
This year’s Board exemplifies those ideals. From my first meeting with this group, I’ve seen their passion, thoughtfulness, and commitment to ensuring that the congregation’s best interests are represented in each discussion we have and all decisions we make. Their involvement spans nearly every aspect of temple life. The list of Trustees, Officers, and Board representatives from Sisterhood and Brotherhood can be found to the right. You likely already know many of them.
If you would like to deepen your involvement in our temple community, whether through committee work, a new volunteer role, or future Board service, I warmly invite you to contact me or Lisa Silver, VP of Member Engagement. We would be thrilled to talk with you.
It is a true honor to serve alongside this dedicated group of leaders and to work on behalf of a congregation so rich in spirit, talent, and commitment. Together, we are building the future of Temple Sinai, and I thank you for the role you play in that.
L’Shalom,
Steve Zales
Officers
Steve Zales, President
Susan Brown, VP, Torah & Administration
David Fischer, VP, Communications & Technology
Marc Friedman, VP, Fundraising
Bruce Heller, VP, Finance
Wendy Lewis, VP, Tikkun Olam/K'lal Yisrael
Allan Paull, VP, Facilities
Lisa Silver, VP, Member Engagement
David Swerdloff, Secretary
Susan Kostin, Immediate Past President
Trustees
Myles Block
Elisabeth Giles
Eric Goldman
Michael Heller
Robin Himelstein
Ellen Jacobson
Barbara Kasman
Allison Lear
Aaron Levenson
Beth Levick
Michelle Poris
Mered Sliwinski
Appointed Trustees
Mike Kadish
Liz Lebo
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Cantor's Messages
september - october, 2025
For more than twenty years, Ruach has been the musical heartbeat of our community; sharing their time, talents, and deep love for Jewish music. Their melodies and harmonies have touched countless hearts, and we are profoundly grateful for all they have given.
Though this musical chapter of Temple Sinai came to a close in May, Ruach’s legacy will forever enrich our shared journey. As we honor Ruach’s incredible contributions, we are excited to usher in a new musical chapter with two new musical Shabbat offerings.
The first is Shabbat B’Shir — Shabbat in Song. Shabbat B’Shir will operate as a Sinai Circle, whose participants will meet monthly to explore Jewish music and deepen their connection to prayer through song. It’s not a rehearsal for a performance, but an opportunity to learn, grow, and discover one’s voice in sacred community. For those interested in joining the Circle, no musical experience is required; you don’t need to read music or speak Hebrew. Just bring your love of music and an interest in our rich Jewish liturgical tradition. Together, we’ll fill our circle with music, meaning, and connection, explore the magical resonance of singing together and discover the divine beauty of music. And don’t worry, there’s no conflict between Shabbat B’Shir and Kolot Sinai. If you love to sing, you’re welcome and encouraged to join both! Circle members will then lend their voices to four services throughout the year. Together with instrumentalists, Barbara Orwick on piano and myself, we’ll lift the congregation’s prayers in joyous, harmonious song.
The second is Avodat HaLev. Continuing the success of our Saturday morning meditation service with Avodat HaLev, every other month, on the 2nd Wednesday evening, we’ll explore a prayer’s Hebrew and English meaning, its historical context, and its modern relevance. We’ll then learn a melody for that prayer so you can carry it into Shabbat. Two nights later, we’ll gather for a spirited, collaborative Friday service that weaves that melody and others into a joyful, thoughtful, and meaningful worship experience. Come to either evening or both, and bring an open mind and a willingness to both learn and unlearn ways of connecting with prayer.
For both of these new services we invite you to come as you are, let the music lift you, and add your voice to our sacred song.
B’Shira,
Cantor Micah Morgovsky
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DIRECTOR OF CONGREGATIONAL ENGAGEMENT'S Messages
september - october, 2025
As summer winds down, we begin preparing for the High Holy Days, the opening of Religious School and, of course, registration for Circles. This will be our seventh cycle of Circles, and once again, we’re offering a wide variety of opportunities for the congregation to enjoy.
This year, we’re introducing a small but meaningful change to the registration process. In the past, members could choose to remain in their same Circle. However, with our accelerated growth and our commitment to inclusivity, we’re opening every Circle to the entire congregation.
Circles have been transformative for so many — building lasting relationships, sparking intellectual growth, fostering new skills, and helping our community feel more connected. We want everyone to have the chance to share in the rich experiences that Circles offer. It’s a wonderful way to meet new people with shared interests, try something fresh, and strengthen our bonds as a congregation.
As of this writing, there are 26 Circles (see insert for the list of Circles) to choose from. We’ve worked hard to create a diverse range of experiences—whether you’re seeking something contemplative, intellectual, social, physical, nostalgic, religious, or musical. We cover a wide spectrum, but if you notice something missing, please reach out to me, as Circles are led by congregants, and I’d love to help you bring your ideas to life.
Over the years, I’ve seen Circles grow beyond their original scope — some evolving into adult education programs, others continuing to meet independently. These are the lasting relationships that Circles were designed to create. The heart of Sinai Circles lies in fostering connection built on the reliability of shared time and space. While we understand that life can be unpredictable, we kindly ask that you join a Circle only if its meeting dates and times work with your schedule.
So, take the plunge into Circle life and see the difference it can make. Harrison recently said to me, “It must feel good to see all of the relationships that have come through Circles.” I told him about Morihei Ueshiba, founder of Aikido, who said, “A warrior’s mission is to foster the success of others.” In many ways, Circles has given our congregation the opportunity to do just that — owning and sharing in the success of our community.
Larry Stoogenke
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Educator's Messages
september - october, 2025
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to let meaningful moments slip by.
That’s why family traditions — those regular, intentional activities shared among family members — are so important. Whether big or small, simple or elaborate, traditions play a powerful role in shaping family identity and connection.
Why Traditions Matter
- They create lasting memories. Traditions provide a sense of rhythm and anticipation. Kids may not remember every detail of daily life, but they’ll remember the Sunday pancake breakfasts, movie nights, or annual camping trips.
- They offer comfort and stability. Especially during times of change or stress, familiar traditions give children a sense of security and belonging.
- They pass on values. Family traditions can reflect what your family values — faith, kindness, gratitude, togetherness — and help instill those values in the next generation.
- They strengthen bonds. Time spent together doing something intentional fosters deeper connections between parents, children, and extended family.
Ideas to Start or Reignite Traditions
- Weekly game or movie nights
- Holiday rituals, like baking cookies or decorating together
- Bedtime stories or shared prayers
- Annual “yes day” where kids choose the day’s activities
- Volunteering as a family during the holidays
You don’t have to wait for a holiday or special occasion to start a tradition. Even small, consistent rituals — like Friday pizza night or Saturday morning walks — can become cherished over time.
It’s Never Too Late to Start
Whether your family is just beginning or your children are nearly grown, it’s always the right time to build connections through tradition. What matters most is not what you do, but that you do it together.
We will once again have High Holy Day programming and childcare for the primary services of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Following the main service, we offer High Holy Day services for families with young children (birth to 4) and a family service
for families with older children (5+).
Please check your High Holy Day passes and our online calendar for more information and to register for the Children’s Program. Why not make these programs part of your holiday traditions?
Shana Tovah (Happy New Year)
Morah Erica Santiago, LMSW
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DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Messages
JULY-AUGUST, 2024
Have you ever wondered about some of the sculptures and art at Temple Sinai? Each piece has a story. Here are just a few to take a closer look at the next time you are in the building. If you are interested in learning the history of any other pieces of art or sculptures here at Temple, we have a white binder that sits on the coffee table outside the Poch Family Study with information on every piece. A special thank you to Arlene Rosen for compiling this important history of Temple Sinai.
Shelly Welfeld
Ram’s Horn – 1979
By James Knowles, who is a well known sculpturer who has been a Stamford resident for many years.
This bronze sculpture was commissioned in connection with the 25th anniversary of Temple Sinai. The sculpture stands on the front lawn to the left of the path into the Atrium. The flowing nature of Judaism, the open-armed praise of God, the Still Small Voice of Calm, the Hebrew letter shin – ש - these were among the expressions from which this work evolved.
Studies for Ram’s Horn – Prints — 1979 By James Knowles
There are four framed prints mounted in the Atrium on the right side as you enter through the main wooden doors.
Memorial Sculpture — 1988
By James Knowles
Donated by the family of Dr. Seymour Breslow in honor of Dr. Seymour Breslow. This sculpture is installed on the Temple grounds behind the Atrium.
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