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CO-PRESIDENT'S MONTHLY MESSAGE


FEBRUARY, 2026
Shevat - Adar 5786

There is a wonderful sense of momentum building here, and we're excited to share what is ahead at Bnai Shalom. In the coming months,we will be hosting a range of new initiatives that will deepen our connection to the community and one another. Whether you are a longtime member or a newer member, there will be something for everyone to look forward to.

Our upcoming programs include expanded opportunities for all ages with meaningful and fun social and community-building experiences. Here are some events in the works, giving us more chances to connect, celebrate, and support one another beyond Shabbat services.

Purim – March 2 – We will participate in a Purim celebration with other Lehigh Valley synagogues, hosted by Brith Sholom in Bethlehem. In addition to the joint service, Megillah reading, and Purim spiel - keep a lookout for the Sisterhood Hamantaschen sale (an order form to reserve your favorites is included in this bulletin).

Pre-Pesach Bus Trip to Lakewood, NJ – March 22 – There are four stops on this trip, the Matzah Bakery, Lakewood Historical Society Museum, lunch at South Side Sandwich and Smokehouse, and shopping at Lakewood Plaza and Gourmet Glatt Supermarket – a trip not to be missed.

Passover Second Night Seder – April 2 – Rabbi Adrienne will lead our Seder, and the Bnai Shalom Sisterhood will prepare a delicious Glatt kosher meal.

Hebrew Connections – A Performance by Pennsylvania Sinfonia Orchestra – April 12 – Bnai Shalom will host a music concert performance of this professional chamber orchestra that presents high quality, approachable classical music.

Strings of Hope – April 19 – This concert is committed to presenting performances that promote understanding among a variety of cultural traditions. The only surviving violin from the Hiroshima bombing will be played alongside one of the Violins of Hope from the Holocaust. This will be the first time these two important instruments will ever be played together.

Unity In The Community 2.0 – May 28 – Broadway Celebrates the Lehigh Valley! – This special presentation is a Broadway celebration of hope, resilience, and connection starring John Lloyd Young (Jersey Boys), Andrea McArdle (the original Annie), and acclaimed comedian Judy Gold. Proceeds from this event will benefit local efforts to support vulnerable populations through humanitarian initiatives in the Lehigh Valley, in Israel, and in 70 countries around the world.

We are excited not only about the programs themselves, but about the sense of togetherness they represent. Keep an eye on upcoming announcements, calendars, and registrations – and we encourage you to get more involved.

It may be cold outside, but we are just warming up!

Vickie Semmel and Howard Nathanson

Bnai Shalom Co-Presidents