President's Column - Summer 2025

Dear Temple Beth Tikvah Community,

As we move into the heart of summer, I find myself deeply grateful for the strength, spirit, and warmth of our TBT family. Summer is often a time of rest and renewal, and yet, even in these quieter months, our synagogue is very much alive, with energy, purpose, and deep connection.

This was felt so clearly at our recent Gala on June 7th, where over 120 people gathered to celebrate and support our community. It was an evening filled with laughter, generosity, and shared purpose.

What moved me even more was the outpouring of support we received from those who weren’t able to attend in person but contributed from afar. That is the true strength of this community: when one of us shows up, we all benefit. When many of us show up, whether physically or through giving, the impact is transformational. A humongous thank you goes out to the entire Gala committee (Alison Broder, Gary Damiano, Shaun Glazier, Jamie Rubin, and Helen Winokur) and all who helped put such a special night together, todah rabah.

Thanks to that generosity, and the dedication of so many volunteers, we are better positioned to build the future we all envision. And speaking of the future, mark your calendars now for our next Gala, tentatively scheduled for March 21, 2026. If this year is any indication, it will be another evening to remember.

That future is also being shaped right now through our Secure the Future Capital Campaign, which is already underway. This is an essential effort to ensure the long-term vitality, safety, and sustainability of Temple Beth Tikvah, not just for us, but for generations to come. If you would like to learn more, or speak directly with our campaign chair, David Sack, just let us know. David is happy to reach out and share more about how you can be part of this critical initiative.

Meanwhile, summer offers opportunities to gather in beautiful and meaningful ways. One of our favorite TBT traditions is back: Beach Shabbat. These peaceful Friday evenings are a chance to slow down, breathe in the sea air, and welcome Shabbat together. Join us on July 18, August 1, and August 15 at 6:00 p.m. at East Wharf Beach in Madison. Whether you come for the service, the community, or just the view—these moments of spiritual connection are what make our summers so special. At the same time, we cannot ignore the ongoing crisis facing Israel and the Jewish people worldwide. In addition to the ongoing pain and uncertainty following the October 7th attacks, and the urgent efforts to bring all remaining hostages home, Israel now faces escalating threats from Iran and its proxies, adding a dangerous new layer to an already complex and painful reality. The threat is real, and it affects Jews everywhere. We stand in unwavering solidarity with Israel and all who are working toward security, justice, and peace. Here at home, the continued rise in antisemitism, on college campuses, in politics, and in public discourse, demands our vigilance and resolve. These are not just global headlines; they are personal. They remind us why our synagogue must remain strong, proud, and united, why we gather, why we teach, and why we lead with courage and purpose.

Temple Beth Tikvah is not only a spiritual home, it is a source of strength, identity, and resilience. It is where we teach our children to be proud of who they are, where we gather to support one another, and where we refuse to let hatred define our future. This is the sacred work we do, not only in times of crisis, but always. And it is why your continued engagement, support, and presence mean so much.

As we look toward the High Holidays in the fall (Erev Rosh Hashanah is the evening of Monday, September 22 ), I invite you to stay connected. Come to a beach Shabbat, get involved in a committee, speak to David Sack about the campaign, or simply reach out and share your ideas, hopes, or concerns. Together, we are building something lasting and meaningful.

Wishing you a summer filled with joy, rest, connection, and purpose.

B’shalom,

Josh Broder, TBT President

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 - April 2025

April Reflections: Passover, Chad Gadya, and the Lessons We Carry Forward

April is a time of renewal—a season of cherry blossoms, warmer weather, the return of baseball, and, of course, Passover. Growing up, my brother and I always had time off from school during Passover since we attended a Jewish day school. That meant more than just a break from classes; it meant time with family, endless matzah (which, to this day, still tastes like cardboard to me), Slivovitz (Passover Plum Brandy), and singing our favorite Seder Songs.

One song that has always stood out to me is Chad Gadya (One Little Goat). It was my favorite then, and it remains my favorite now. As kids, we took great joy in singing it faster and faster, competing to see who could keep up. It was fun, but looking back, Chad Gadya is more than just a playful tune —it carries deep meaning, open to interpretation across generations.

Some scholars see Chad Gadya as an allegory of Jewish history, where each character represents a different empire that ruled over the Land of Israel. The goat symbolizes the Jewish people, while the other figures—from the cat to the Angel of Death—are stand-ins for the various nations that rose and fell through history. The final resolution, where G-d intervenes, signifies divine justice and the Jewish people’s ultimate return to their homeland. This interpretation was first widely published in a 1731 pamphlet by Philip Nicodemus Lebrecht, and it has since been explored in many ways, with variations on which oppressor represents which force.

Others see Chad Gadya as a moral lesson. Some connect it to the story of Abraham being sentenced to death by fire, only to be saved by G-d, reinforcing the idea that divine justice surpasses even death. Contemporary scholar Lawrence Hoffman suggests that the song warns against cycles of revenge—once they begin, they are nearly impossible to stop. And according to Rav Nasan Adler (1741–1800), Chad Gadya serves as a caution against lashon hara (gossip). In one story, after overhearing people gossiping about him, he pointed out that just as the dog had no business punishing the cat, people should not interfere in matters that are not theirs to judge.

Personally, I believe Chad Gadya is as relevant today as ever. In a world filled with too much gossip, too much retaliation, and too many divisions, we must find ways to come together. It doesn’t matter where we stand on politics, government, sports—or even which Kardashian is making headlines (frankly, who cares?). What does matter is that as individuals, as a community, and as members of such a special place like TBT, we continue strengthening our bonds of Judaism, connection, and family.

So this Passover, let Chad Gadya be more than just a fun song—let it be a reminder to break cycles of conflict and seek understanding. And perhaps a little Slivovitz wouldn’t hurt either. Let us all pray for peace in Israel, in the U.S., and across the world, as well as for the safe and swift return of all remaining hostages.

From my family to yours, Chag Pesach Sameach.

B’shalom,
Josh Broder,
TBT President

President's Column - March 2025

As we step into March, our synagogue is filled with excitement for Purim, one of the most􀀠joyous and meaningful celebrations of the Jewish year. While costumes, hamantaschen,􀀠and noisemakers add to the fun, Purim is ultimately a story of resilience, courage, and the􀀠power of community.

The story of Esther reminds us that even in times of uncertainty, we have both the ability􀀠and the responsibility to stand up for one another. It teaches us that hidden miracles often􀀠shape our lives and that joy and laughter can be powerful acts of strength. In a world that􀀠can sometimes feel overwhelming, Purim calls us to come together, find light in the􀀠darkness, and celebrate the blessings of our community.

This year, I invite each of you to embrace the spirit of Purim. Join us for the Megillah reading and Purim spiel on Thursday, March 13, at 7 PM—and let’s make some noise together! I’ll be bringing my homemade, wooden grogger, which I crafted when I was 12 years old.􀀠Our talented cantorial soloist, Rachel Policar, will be leading the spiel, making this an event you won’t􀀠want to miss. Most importantly, take this opportunity to reach out to others—send mishloach manot, give tzedakah, and spread the joy of the season.

Purim also reminds us of the importance of joy as a unifying force in our community. Through song,􀀠dance, and laughter, we strengthen our bonds and affirm our shared values. This year, let’s extend􀀠 the spirit of Purim beyond the holiday itself, carrying its lessons of courage, generosity, and 􀀠celebration into our daily lives.

As we laugh, sing, and celebrate, let us draw inspiration from Esther and Mordechai, remembering􀀠that even small actions can make a difference. Our synagogue is blessed to be a place where we􀀠 support and uplift one another—not just on Purim, but throughout the year.

This theme of unity and joy extends beyond Purim—it’s a value we uphold year-round and one we􀀠will celebrate in a grand way at our Annual Gala on June 7. Just as Purim brings us together with 􀀠purpose and joy, our Gala will be an opportunity to honor the heart and soul of our congregation—the people who make TBT a warm, vibrant home for all. Mark your calendars, because this will be a􀀠 night to remember!

Our Annual Gala will be an evening of celebration, gratitude, and inspiration. We will honor the􀀠 incredible contributions of our members, enjoy delicious food, and revel in the joy of our thriving􀀠 community. The night will be filled with music, entertainment, and meaningful connections, as well as 􀀠silent and live auctions. This is a wonderful opportunity to come together in the same spirit of Purim,􀀠 celebrating the strength and unity of our congregation.

We are currently seeking sponsors for our Gala, as well as auction items. If you have a vacation home􀀠or a unique experience you can offer, please reach out to the Gala Committee—the more􀀠 contributions we receive, the more we can benefit TBT. Your support makes all the difference, and􀀠we look forward to celebrating with you all!

B’shalom,
Josh Broder,
TBT President

PRESIDENT'S COLUMN - FEBRUARY 2025

Building Bridges and Strengthening Our Community

Dear Friends,

As we settle into 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on the importance of welcoming and belonging in our synagogue. In Jewish tradition, hachnasat orchim—welcoming guests—is a cornerstone of our values. It reminds us that everyone deserves a place where they feel embraced, supported, and connected.

I’m thrilled to share that our synagogue family continues to grow. This year, we’ve welcomed many new members who are already enriching our community with their presence and energy. To our newest members: we’re so glad you’re here. Your decision to join us reflects a commitment to Jewish life, and we’re committed to ensuring you feel at home here. In the next few months we will have special events and /or services specifically for our new members. More details will follow soon.

But our work doesn’t stop at welcoming new members—we have the power to grow our community even further. I encourage all of you, whether you’ve been a part of this synagogue for decades or weeks, to invite friends, neighbors, or coworkers to experience what makes our congregation special. Whether it’s joining a Shabbat service, attending a program, or just coming for coffee and conversation, sharing our synagogue with others is one of the best ways to strengthen our community.

This February, we’ll have a beautiful opportunity to come together in celebration during Shabbat Shirah on February 7. Our fabulous soloist, Rachel Policar, will be joining TBT once again for this evening. Known as the "Shabbat of Song", this special service highlights the moment the Israelites sang with joy after crossing the "Sea of Reeds". It’s a time to reflect on freedom, gratitude, and the power of music to uplift and unite us. I hope you’ll join us—and bring a friend! It’s the perfect occasion to share the beauty of our tradition with others and to feel the strength of our voices rising together in harmony.

In addition to fostering connections close to home, we must also turn our hearts to those in need of connection and support abroad. Like so many of you, I’ve been following the situation of hostages still awaiting their return to freedom. It’s a stark reminder of the fragility of peace and the importance of standing together as a global Jewish community. We pray fervently for their safety and for the day when they can reunite with their families.

This February, let’s commit to making our synagogue an even brighter light for all who enter its doors. Let’s make space for connection and extend invitations widely. And let’s join together in action and prayer for those who long to return home. Thank you for being a vital part of our synagogue family. Together, we can continue to build bridges, strengthen bonds, and make 2025 a year of growth, unity, and hope.

B’shalom,

Josh Broder, TBT President

President's Column - January 2025

As we step into January 2025, I find myself reflecting on the idea of simcha – joy. In Jewish tradition, joy is not merely a fleeting emotion; it is a profound state of being, an active practice that connects us to our faith, our heritage, and to one another. Yet in a world that often feels rushed, uncertain, and complex, finding moments of true Jewish joy can sometimes feel elusive. It is in these very moments that the synagogue has its most vital role to play.

The synagogue has always been more than just a physical space to me. It is a beit k'nesset – a house of gathering, where we come together to pray, to learn, and to share our lives. It is a beit midrash –a house of study, where we engage with our traditions, ask questions, and discover meaning. And it is a beit t’filah –a house of prayer, where we connect to something greater than ourselves. Today, as the needs of our community evolve, so too does the synagogue. It must adapt to changing times while staying true to its purpose: creating and sustaining Jewish joy.

What does Jewish joy look like in 2025? It can be found in the laughter of children at our religious school or family Shabbat dinners. It is the warmth of a congregant welcoming a newcomer. It is the shared pride of standing together during a bar or bat mitzvah singing Hinei Ma Tov in harmony. Jewish joy emerges in the small moments, in the bonds we form, and in the spiritual connection we cultivate. And it is needed now more than ever.

We are living in a time of change. Many are searching for meaning, balance, and a sense of belonging amidst the noise of daily life. Others are seeking ways to reconnect with their Jewish identity or their community. The synagogue must meet people where they are through innovative programming, inclusive spaces, and meaningful opportunities for engagement. Whether it is a Shabbat service filled with music, a community tikkun olam project, or a quiet moment of study, the synagogue can offer the spaces where joy can flourish.

In the year ahead, I encourage all of us to actively seek out Jewish joy. Attend a service, join a class, volunteer for a cause, be part of a task force or committee (we need help with both our capital campaign and our membership reimagination), or simply show up. The more you show up, the more joy you will receive, it’s that simple. The synagogue is here to welcome you, to inspire you, and to provide a home for that joy to grow.

Together, let us embrace the opportunity to create a vibrant, joyful Jewish future for ourselves, our families, and our community. May this year be one of reconnection, inspiration, and abundant joy. Let us move forward with open hearts and a renewed sense of purpose.

Josh Broder

Temple Beth Tikvah 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