As we begin our sixth year as Bnai Shalom, we are reminded of just how special our congregation truly is. Our members faithfully participate in worship services, educational programs, social events, and community activities, both within our synagogue and throughout the greater Lehigh Valley. Your enthusiasm, dedication, and commitment are what make Bnai Shalom such a vibrant and welcoming Jewish community.
Our congregation continues to thrive because of the strength of our endowment, built through prudent investing, careful stewardship of our resources, and the generosity of our congregational family. Although our operating expenses continue to rise, the Board of Directors made the thoughtful decision not to increase membership dues this year, recognizing the financial pressures many families have experienced due to higher grocery prices, energy costs, and other everyday expenses. At present, income from our investments continues to bridge much of the gap between our revenues and expenditures. However, we recognize that this may not always be sustainable.
There are several meaningful ways you can help ensure that Bnai Shalom remains a strong and vibrant center of Jewish life in the greater Easton area for generations to come. One of the most important is to invite unaffiliated Jewish individuals, friends, neighbors, or family members to join you for a Shabbat service or one of our many programs and events. A personal invitation is often the first step toward welcoming new members into our congregational family.
If you are able, we also encourage you to consider voluntarily increasing your annual membership commitment by choosing one of our Chai, Chai-and-a-Half, or Double Chai membership levels. Every additional contribution helps strengthen the financial foundation of our congregation.
Finally, we invite you to become even more involved by volunteering at an event, sharing your talents by leading a program or participating in a service, or joining one of our committees. The time, talents, and enthusiasm of our members are among Bnai Shalom's greatest blessings.
Together, through your participation, generosity, and commitment, Bnai Shalom will continue to flourish as a welcoming home for Jewish worship, learning, friendship, and community for many years to come.
Vickie Semmel and Howard Nathanson
Bnai Shalom Co-Presidents
SERVING THE JEWISH COMMUNITY OF EASTON SINCE 1839