President's Column - February 2026

Dear Friends,

As we step into February, I’ve been returning to a teaching from Parashat Beshalach, the portion we read on Shabbat Shirah. On January 30, we gather to celebrate that Shabbat of Song, the moment when our ancestors crossed the Sea of Reeds and responded not with relief alone, but with music, gratitude, and courage.

There’s a midrash that teaches that the sea did not split all at once. It opened only when one person, Nachshon ben Aminadav, stepped forward into the water. His willingness to move, even when the path was unclear, created the possibility of liberation for everyone else.

That image has stayed with me.

So much of synagogue life, and Jewish life, depends on those small, brave steps. Showing up for Shabbat.

Trying a new class. Volunteering for a committee. Welcoming a new member. Reaching out to someone you haven’t seen in a while. None of these actions is dramatic on its own, but together they create the kind of community where renewal is possible.

And I’ve been seeing that spirit everywhere at TBT. January was filled with energy, new faces joining us, longtime members reconnecting, and a sense of momentum that feels both steady and hopeful. It’s a reminder that community is not something we simply have; it’s something we continually build.

Looking ahead, we have an important opportunity to keep strengthening that foundation. On March 21, we will gather for our 3rd Annual TBT Gala Celebration and Auction. As I shared last month, this evening is not only joyful, it is essential. The funds raised help sustain our synagogue’s financial health, ensuring that our beautiful home remains strong for the next generation.

If you are able to contribute an auction item, a vacation home, tickets, a special experience, or something unique, your generosity will make a real impact. And if you’ve never participated before, this is a wonderful year to take that first step. Like Nachshon, sometimes all it takes is one person moving forward to open the way for others.

Finally, even as we nurture our local community, our hearts remain with those still waiting for safety, healing, and homecoming. Holding them in our thoughts deepens our sense of shared responsibility and reminds us that the Jewish story is always larger than any one moment or place.

This February, may we each find our own small step forward, toward connection, toward learning, toward generosity, toward one another. May we continue to rise together, adding light, strength, and hope to our community.

B’shalom,
Josh Broder, TBT President

President's Column - January 2026

President’s Column: Rekindling Light, Renewing Commitment: Looking Ahead to 2026

As we enter January 2026, I’ve been reflecting on a teaching from the Talmud about the mitzvah of lighting the Hanukkah candles. The sages teach “ma’alin bakodesh v’ein moridin,” in matters of holiness, we ascend rather than descend. Each night of Hanukkah, we add one more candle, increasing the light in the world rather than letting it fade. It’s a simple ritual with a profound message: Jewish life is built on the belief that we can always grow, deepen, and brighten what already exists.

This year, that teaching feels especially resonant.

Just a few weeks ago, our community gathered for the most joyful Hanukkah celebrations in recent memory. Over 150 people - children, parents, grandparents, longtime members, and new faces - filled our space with song, laughter, and light. It was a powerful reminder of who we are: a community that shows up for one another, celebrates together, and creates moments of connection that linger long after the candles burn down.

And now, as we look ahead, we have more opportunities to “add light” to our shared Jewish life. On March 21st, 2026, we will come together for our 3rd Annual TBT Gala Celebration and Auction, an evening that has quickly become one of the highlights of our year. This event not only brings us joy and togetherness, it also plays a crucial role in supporting our synagogue’s financial health.

This year, we are asking for your help to make the gala stronger than ever. We are seeking contributions for both our silent auction and our live auction. Silent auction items of all kinds are welcome; for the live auction we are especially looking for vacation homes, sporting or theater tickets, special experiences, and other high-value offerings. Please reach out to our gala team at tbtgala@gmail.com for more information. They will be delighted to help coordinate the details.

And speaking of our future: as many of you know, we are still working to retire the remaining debt from our renovation. That renovation gave us a beautiful, functional, welcoming home, one that serves our children, supports our clergy and staff, and allows us to gather in meaningful ways. Now we must take the next step and ensure that this home is financially secure for the next generation. Every contribution, every pledge, every act of support helps us move closer to that goal.

In the spirit of “ma’alin bakodesh”, I invite each of us to take one step upward this year. Attend a service. Join a class. Volunteer for a committee. Support the gala. Make a meaningful donation toward our renovation debt. Reach out to someone you haven’t seen in a while. Show up, because when you do, you not only receive joy, you help create it.

Our synagogue is more than a building; it is a living, breathing community. And its strength comes from each of us choosing, again and again, to add our own light to the collective flame.

May 2026 be a year of growth, connection, and renewed purpose. May we continue to rise together, adding light upon light.

B’shalom,
Josh Broder, TBT President

President's Column - December 2025

The rabbis teach that when we light the menorah, we are not only recalling the miracle of oil that lasted eight days, but also affirming that our role is to bring light into the world. Each flame represents hope, resilience, and dedication. Chanukah reminds us that even in times of challenge, a single spark can ignite great change.

When I was a kid at Ezra Academy, one of my favorite traditions was our annual Chanukah program. The students put on skits, sang songs, performed dances, and shared stories, all centered on the holiday. The entire community came together, dressed up for the occasion, and filled the room with joy. And of course, no Chanukah program was complete without latkes hot off the griddle, sufganiyot dusted with sugar, and plenty of gelt for dreidel games.Those nights taught me that Chanukah is not only about miracles, it’s about community, celebration, and the light we create together.

This year, Temple Beth Tikvah will shine brighter than ever. On Wednesday, December 17th, we will kindle our first large outdoor menorah in a special ceremony. This new tradition will be a beacon of Jewish pride and resilience, visible to all who pass by, and a powerful reminder that our light endures.

Then, on Friday, December 19th, we gather for one of TBT’s most beloved traditions: our annual all-congregation Chanukah celebration, menorah lighting, and brisket cook-off dinner. It is an evening filled with laughter, delicious food, light, and the joy of celebrating together as one family.

As we enjoy these moments of light and warmth, I invite you to also join in sustaining our future. Our Secure the Future capital campaign continues to move forward, with the goal of retiring the remaining debt from our renovation. Just as each candle strengthens the glow of the menorah, each contribution strengthens the foundation of our community.

Let us come together this Chanukah season, at the menorah lighting, at the brisket cook-off, and in support of our campaign, to ensure that Temple Beth Tikvah remains a place of light, learning, and love for generations to come.

Chag Urim Sameach,

Josh Broder
President, Temple Beth Tikvah

President's Column - November 2025

As the autumn leaves fall and the days grow shorter, November invites us to reflect, not just on gratitude, but on legacy. In Jewish tradition, legacy isn’t measured solely in material terms. It’s found in the values we uphold, the stories we tell, and the communities we nurture. Pirkei Avot teaches, “It is not your duty to finish the work, but neither are you free to desist from it.” That resonates deeply as we continue shaping the future of TBT.

This month, I’m especially grateful for the opportunity to deepen our learning and connection through our Scholar-in-Residence program, taking place November 7–9. We’re honored to welcome Yardena Schwartz, an award-winning journalist and documentary producer whose work explores the intersection of Jewish identity, politics, and culture. Her insights promise to challenge, inspire, and enrich our understanding of the world and our place in it. I encourage everyone to attend and engage—this is a rare and meaningful opportunity for our congregation.

Legacy also lives in the work we’re doing to secure TBT’s future. From the capital campaign led by David Sack, to the task force headed by Dr. Alan Friedman, we’re not just maintaining, we’re reimagining. These efforts are about more than finances; they’re about ensuring that TBT remains a spiritual home for generations to come.

And here’s where each of us plays a role. Whether through a contribution to the capital campaign to help retire our debt, or a legacy gift in your estate planning, your support becomes part of TBT’s enduring story. It’s a way to say: I was here. I believed in this community. I helped it thrive. I want to ensure its existence forever.

If you’re ready to be part of that legacy, I encourage you to reach out to David Sack at 917-744- 3503 or dsack1234@aol.com, or to Sabrina Maurer, our Director of Development and Financial Planning, at 215-620-8427 or sabrinalmaurer@gmail.com. They’ll be happy to talk with you about how your gift, large or small, can make a lasting impact.

I also want to extend a heartfelt welcome to the many new members who have joined TBT over the past few months. Your presence brings fresh energy and new perspectives to our community, and we’re so glad you’re here. To our longtime members: I encourage you to reach out, connect, and help us continue growing. If you know someone looking for a spiritual home, invite them to experience what makes TBT so special. Every new member strengthens our future.

As we approach Thanksgiving, I invite you to reflect not only on what you’re grateful for, but on what you’re building. What part of your story will live on in this community? How can we, together, ensure that TBT continues to be a place of warmth, meaning, and belonging?

Wishing you a season filled with learning, connection, and purpose.

Warmly,
Josh Broder
President of TBT ‘s Board of Directors

President's Column: June 2025

“It is not incumbent upon you to complete the work, but neither are you free to desist from it.”

– Pirkei Avot 2:16

At our recent Annual Meeting, the 48th in our congregation’s history, I had the honor of

delivering my first “State of TBT” address as your President. It was a meaningful opportunity to

reflect on the progress we’ve made over the past year and to share some of the vision that

continues to guide us. When I stepped into this role last July, I set out with three primary goals:

1. Streamlining and Documenting Our Systems

Behind the scenes, a lot of work has gone into simplifying how TBT operates. We’ve transitioned to QuickBooks

Online for better financial reporting and expanded our use of ShulCloud to strengthen communication and data

management. We’ve also begun documenting key processes, roles, and responsibilities—an investment in

smoother transitions and institutional memory for years to come.

2. Rethinking Our Financial Model

We’ve launched a new financial task force, led by Alan Friedman, to explore how we might evolve our funding model

to better reflect the changing needs of synagogue life. They’re actively researching what other congregations have

done and will bring recommendations to the Board, and eventually to all of you, for input. This is a long-term project,

but one that could shape a more sustainable future for TBT.

3. Renewing Our Commitment to Financial Strength

As many of you know, the beautiful renovation of our sanctuary and building was a transformative milestone in

TBT’s story. But it also came with significant financial obligations that remain with us today. This year, we’ve reignited

our Secure the Future capital campaign under the leadership of David Sack, with the goal of meaningfully

reducing the debt associated with that renovation.

This campaign is not just about paying off a loan, it’s about honoring the investment we’ve made in our spiritual

home, preserving the sacred space we’ve built together, and ensuring that TBT remains vibrant and financially

healthy for generations to come.

“They shall give, everyone whose heart moves them.”

– Exodus 25:2

That verse from the Torah, about the building of the Mishkan, reminds us that generosity is not only about financial

support, but about heart, intention, and sacred responsibility. In the coming weeks and months, if you haven’t

already, you’ll hear more about how you can be part of this effort from a member of the Secure the Future

campaign team. Every contribution, large or small, makes a difference and strengthens our future.

Beyond these priorities, there is so much more to celebrate. Our preschool is full of energy and joy. Our religious

school has over 90 students engaged in Jewish learning. We’ve welcomed new members into our TBT family. And

our calendar continues to be filled with meaningful services, thoughtful programs, and joyful moments of connection.

As I look ahead, I’m filled with gratitude and hope. This community is full of people who step up, give generously of

themselves, and help carry the mission of TBT forward. That’s what makes this synagogue not just a building, but a

sacred home.

Thank you for your continued support, your involvement, and your trust. I look forward to all we’ll build, together, in

the year ahead.

B’shalom,

Josh Broder, TBT President

President’s Column

President's Column: May 2025

As the days grow longer and we inch closer to summer, May offers us a moment to reflect on both celebration and connection within our Temple Beth Tikvah family.

This month, we join Jews around the world in marking Yom HaAtzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day. It’s a time not only to celebrate the birth of the modern State of Israel, but to reaffirm our connection to its people, its promise, and its continued vibrancy. Whether you connect through prayer, food, music, or history, Yom HaAtzmaut reminds us how deeply Israel lives in the hearts of Jews everywhere—including right here at Temple Beth Tikvah.

Just a few days later on May 16, we celebrate Lag Ba’Omer—a joyful break in the Omer period that brings with it a spirit of light and community. Traditionally marked with bonfires, music, and outdoor fun, Lag Ba’Omer is a reminder that even in the midst of reflection, there is room for joy and togetherness. I have particularly fond memories of Lag Ba’Omer from my time as a student in Jewish day school. Every year, the day was transformed into a full-blown field day filled with games, sports, and challenges. We were divided into twelve groups—each one representing one of the Twelve Tribes of Israel—and the 8th graders served as our team leaders. There was so much spirit and camaraderie, and a real sense of pride in representing your tribe. It’s a memory that has stuck with me, and one that reminds me how joyful Jewish tradition can be when we experience it in community.

May also marks a season of transitions and milestones. As our students finish their school years and our b’nai mitzvah families celebrate meaningful moments, we honor the hard work, growth, and achievements of our youth. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our teachers, clergy, staff, and volunteers who nurture Jewish learning and identity in such meaningful ways all year long.

I also want to invite you to our Annual Meeting on Wednesday, May 21 at 7:00pm. This is more than just a business meeting—it’s a chance to reflect on the year behind us, look ahead with intention, and engage in the future of our congregation. Your voice and your presence are what make this community strong, and I hope to see many of you there.

Looking ahead, we’re just weeks away from our Second Annual Gala on June 7th. Last year’s inaugural event was a beautiful evening of joy, community, and support—and this year promises to be even more special. This Gala isn’t just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of who we are as a congregation: joyful, inclusive, and deeply committed to one another. I hope you’ll join us, bring friends, and take part in a night that strengthens our temple and lifts our spirits.

As we prepare for summer, I encourage you to stay connected. Whether it’s attending services, volunteering, or simply reaching out to someone in the community, your presence matters. Together, we continue to build something lasting and meaningful.

B’shalom,

Josh Broder, TBT President

President's Column - December 2024

Dear Friends,

In the second century BCE, the Holy Land was under the rule of the Seleucids (Syrian-Greeks), who sought to impose Greek culture and beliefs on the people of Israel, undermining their observance of mitzvot and devotion to G d. Against incredible odds, a small group of faithful but poorly armed Jews, led by Judah the Maccabee, defeated one of the most powerful armies of the time. They drove the Greeks out, reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, and rededicated it to the service of G d.

When they went to light the Temple's Menorah (the seven-branched candelabrum), they found only a single cruse of pure olive oil that had not been contaminated. Miraculously, this small amount of oil burned for eight days—enough time to prepare a new supply under the proper conditions of ritual purity. Like Passover, Hanukkah is a celebration of freedom—freedom from oppression and the ability to practice religious expression. The Hebrew word Chanukah means "dedication," commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.

The Festival of Lights, another name for Chanukah, is one of my favorite Jewish holidays. While other kids anticipated Christmas, I was eagerly preparing for Chanukah. Why? Because what’s better than freshly made latkes (with chives and scallions for extra flavor—delicious!), sufganiyot (Hebrew for doughnuts), playing dreidel with chocolate gelt as prizes, and lighting the menorah while singing traditional songs and blessings? (Ma’oz Tzur or Rock of Ages—is my personal favorite. My mom made my brother and me sing it every night of Chanukah when we were kids.) And let’s not forget the cherry on top: eight nights of presents!

Chanukah arrives each year near the winter solstice, when daylight is at its shortest. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest times, there’s always light ahead. As we enter winter and reflect on the ongoing war in Israel—now 14 months long—let us pray for light at the end of this dark tunnel. Just as the oil miraculously lasted eight nights, let us hope for a miracle: the safe release of all remaining hostages. That would truly embody the spirit of Chanukah.

I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the TBT Board of Trustees, the Leadership Council, our clergy and staff, and all the amazing volunteers who dedicate themselves to our incredible community. A special thank-you goes to two remarkable lay leaders, Suzy Frisch and Andrea SanMarco. Their tireless efforts— whether supporting our staff, stepping in during crunch times, or simply always being present—are invaluable TBT wouldn’t be the same without their dedication. Thank you both!

Nes gadol haya sham —“a great miracle happened there.” These words, inscribed on the dreidel, remind us of the miracles Chanukah represents. May the light of this season inspire all of us to shine brightly, even in challenging times, and to dedicate ourselves to something greater—this extraordinary TBT community.

Happy Chanukah from my family to yours!
Josh Broder,
President, Temple Beth Tikvah

President's Column - November 2024

Dear Friends,

In Judaism, gratitude is a core principle and a way of life, expressed through words, actions, and attitudes. The Hebrew term for gratitude, hakarat ha'tov, translates to "recognizing the good." Jewish teachings emphasize that gratitude can simplify our lives, even in difficult times. Grateful individuals tend to be more optimistic and less affected by jealousy and anxiety over what they lack. As we approach Thanksgiving in a few weeks, I want to share what I am thankful for and express my gratitude.

I am grateful for my family—my loving wife, Alison, and my incredible son, Cooper. They are my pillars of strength, and without them, I would feel lost. I am thankful for my clients who trust me and my team to guide them through their financial journeys. I am also grateful for my TBT friends and family, especially the dedicated Board of Trustees and Leadership Council who support our governance efforts. Our clergy and professional staff—Rabbi Moss, Ira, Kim, Caroline, Jen, and our custodians—are the real heroes who keep TBT running smoothly. And, of course, I am thankful for all our member families; without you, TBT would not exist. Lastly, I appreciate our volunteers, like Alan Friedman and David Sack, who I mentioned during my Rosh Hashanah speech. Their commitment is vital for TBT’s survival.

On that note, I’d like to reiterate two key points from my Rosh Hashanah address. First, David Sack has generously agreed to lead the final phase of TBT’s capital campaign, helping us reach our goal. For those unfamiliar, David is the son of Ed and Gloria Sack, of blessed memory. Ed was deeply involved in our financial matters and always focused on our future. David and his team will be reaching out to you, so I encourage you to engage with them—pick up the phone, respond to emails, and have conversations about our renovations and TBT’s financial future. Your involvement is crucial for the long-term success of our congregation. We are also looking for more volunteers to assist in this effort, so if you're interested, please reach out to me for more information.

Second, I want to address the need to reimagine and modernize TBT’s financial structure, a challenge we've discussed for over a decade. What does reimagining TBT’s finances mean? It involves creating a new model for membership and engagement. This fiscal year, excluding the preschool, our budget is approximately $800,000. The cost to run TBT per paying member household is about $3,000, while the average membership dues are around $2,500, resulting in a $500 deficit per member household. This gap is why we rely on our annual fund and charge for certain events, and it’s why dues have increased in recent years due to rising costs.

Many synagogues across the country have successfully restructured their financial models, and we will explore similar options. For instance, Kol Tikvah, a Reform congregation in Parkland, Florida, has developed a model called "Judaism My Way," allowing members to engage with the synagogue according to their individual needs while upholding shared values and financial flexibility. While I’m not yet sure if this model or another will suit TBT, we will investigate these possibilities in the coming months and years.

Dr. Alan Friedman will lead a special task force to explore how we can modernize TBT’s engagement and membership. This task force will focus on welcoming members of all ages, backgrounds, and family structures, especially as many Jews along the shoreline remain unaffiliated. They will ensure that any new ideas sustain TBT for years to come. If you’re interested in shaping TBT’s future, please reach out to me to join this important initiative.

So, this is my way of recognizing the good. There is so much more I could say, but for now, this is plenty. Have a happy Thanksgiving, filled with family, friends, and football, and don’t forget to share your hakarat ha’tov; it might just brighten someone’s day.

As a fun aside, the Hebrew word for turkey is tarnegol Hodu (India chicken). It’s unclear whether this name came from turkeys reaching the Jewish community via India or from some historical confusion. Regardless, it’s often shortened to simply Hodu, which means both "India" and "thanks," as in Hodu L’Adonai ki tov. So, the bird we enjoy on Thanksgiving is literally known in Hebrew as "thanks." How fitting!

Josh Broder,
TBT President

President's Column - October 2024

Hello TBT Community,

In Jewish tradition, the concept of repentance is known as teshuvah, a Hebrew word meaning “return.” One of the Hebrew terms for sin is chet, which signifies “going astray.” Therefore, in Jewish thought, repentance is viewed as returning to the path of righteousness.

Although teshuvah can be performed at any time, the High Holiday season, particularly Yom Kippur, is regarded as a special period for this process. According to Maimonides, repentance involves three key steps: confession, regret, and a commitment not to repeat the misdeed. A true penitent, Maimonides teaches, is someone who, when faced with the same temptation, refrains from committing the sin again. Additionally, prayer, charity, and fasting are believed to aid in gaining forgiveness.

Jewish tradition distinguishes between two categories of sin: sins against G-d and sins against others. Only sins against G-d can be atoned for through confession, regret, and a vow of change. However, sins against other people require not only personal repentance but also making amends — for example, offering restitution for a financial wrong and seeking the victim's forgiveness. It is up to us, as individuals, to forgive one another for personal wrongs; even G-d cannot force forgiveness between people.

In the spirit of this tradition, I want to ask forgiveness from anyone I may have wronged over the past year, whether knowingly or unintentionally. I also offer forgiveness to those who may have wronged me, hoping that in this new year of 5785, we can all strive, as Maimonides suggests, to be the kind of person who chooses not to repeat past mistakes.

On a personal level, I want to focus on becoming a better person in this new year. I hope to listen more and speak less, to be more patient and less impulsive, to think more deeply and assume less. I aim to be a better son, father, husband, brother, friend, colleague, and leader (especially here at TBT). Most of all, I want to begin the journey toward being the best version of myself.

In these challenging and uncertain times, I encourage each of you to reflect on ways you can grow in the coming year. I also hope that part of this growth involves becoming more engaged with TBT and the broader Jewish community. With antisemitism on the rise and hatred surrounding us, we need each other more than ever. Our TBT community is here to share in the joys and sorrows, to support each other through it all.

As we approach the High Holidays, the holiest time of the Jewish year, I wish all of you a happy, healthy, and sweet New Year. I look forward to celebrating and praying with you, and to connecting with each of you during these Days of Awe. May you be inscribed in the Book of Life this year, 5785.

Shana Tovah,
Josh Broder
President, Temple Beth Tikvah

President's Column - September 2024

Hello TBT Community,

I hope everyone had a wonderful summer filled with sun, fun, family, friends, and relaxation. It’s hard to believe how quickly the summer has flown by, but now it's time for football, cool evenings, and the start of a new school year—both secular and religious. The Jewish High Holidays are also just around the corner.

At TBT, we’re gearing up for a busy fall season. You might notice that our front offices have been refreshed with new paint and furniture, and we’re thrilled to welcome a new team member, Caroline Sereyko, our new Communications and Administrative Coordinator, who joined TBT on July 1st. If you haven’t had the chance to meet Caroline yet, please introduce yourself next time you’re at the synagogue.

This fall is packed with activities! We kick off on Friday, September 6th, with the installation service for our Temple Educator, Ira Wise. The service begins at 6 PM and will include some special guests, followed by a community dinner. We also have two Bar Mitzvahs coming up on September 7th and 14th. The TBT Religious School will start on Sunday, September 8th. Selichot services are scheduled for Saturday, September 28th, and the High Holidays will begin with Erev Rosh Hashanah services on October 2nd. We are excited to welcome back our amazing soloist from last year, Rachel Policar, who will be joining us for the holidays and on several other occasions throughout the year.

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, brings back fond memories from my childhood. Every year, my grandmother would send my brother and me a check with the instruction to buy new clothes for shul. She always wanted us to look and feel our best as we stood before G-d, seeking forgiveness and starting fresh for the new year. Just as the secular New Year is synonymous with resolutions, Rosh Hashanah should be no different. As we approach the year 5785, let’s all make resolutions to better ourselves, our families, our community, and the world.

Consider making a resolution to get more involved at TBT in whatever way makes the most sense for you. Volunteer your time by joining a committee, a task force, a Kesher group, or helping with a program. If you’re able, please contribute financially by donating to the capital campaign (to help pay down our debt from the recent renovation project), the annual fund, or any other TBT need. You can also offer a special skill that could benefit our community.

Years ago, I decided to join the TBT board to help make our small community a welcoming place for all Jews on the shoreline. We’re heading in the right direction, but we need your help to continue this journey. We’re looking for feedback and solutions from the entire congregation. Whether you’ve been a TBT member since the 1970s or just joined last week, we need you and we want to hear from you! If we all resolve to get involved in ways that work for us, I can only imagine the incredible progress our already amazing community will achieve.

I look forward to seeing everyone this fall and to continuing our work together to fulfill the vision of this community.

L'shalom,
Josh Broder