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Home > High Holidays > Kol Nidre

Kol Nidre

Dear Friends and Fellow Congregants,


Ever since the tragic and barbaric attack in Israel on October 7th nearly two years ago, it hasn't been easy to be a Jew.  Not only has Israel been under siege day after day on all fronts, but even in America, the safest home that the Jewish people have known outside of Israel, we have not escaped a firehose of anti-Semitism. 
 
But if we aren’t going to win the media war anytime soon, and we can't make anti-Semites any less anti-Semitic, how can we possibly fight back?  There is one thing that is entirely within our control, and it's the one thing that anti-Semites want to disrupt - choosing to lead a Jewish life.  Rabbi Jonathan Sacks said it best – “Non-Jews respect Jews who respect their Judaism,” and that is exactly what has sustained Jewish life and Jewish lives in every century.
So how do we invest in Judaism, in Jewish peoplehood, in Jewish communal life, and in our connection to Israel?  There's really only one way - immersion in Jewish tradition, rituals, ruach, and learning with other Jews.  Jewish engagement cannot simply amount to participation in our “can you believe” WhatsApp groups.  It requires something more.
Our Jewish future depends upon rebuilding Jewish life.  And that is exactly what Etz Chaim is all about.
 
Our congregation has served as a beacon of light for our community.  We have continued to strengthen our bonds through inspirational services, engaging educational programs, and exciting community events.  We have continued to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere for a multitude of new families who have joined us over the past year.  And together, we will continue to find new and creative ways to engage, inspire, and support one another. 
 
It is in that same spirit that I’m asking for your help.  In the coming days, you will be asked to participate in our Kol Nidrei appeal.  This is the most significant fundraising event of the year for Etz Chaim.  Every gift is valuable, and our goal for this year's appeal is to have 100% participation from our congregants. A gift is much more than just another donation or contribution.  It is an investment in the future of the Jewish people.  It is your way of saying: I believe in this community, and I want it to thrive - for me, for my family, and for the future.
As we embark upon a new year, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and hope.  The challenges are real, but our synagogue really does have the ability to rebuild Jewish life.  By resolving to live Jewish lives, and ensuring that our children do as well, our people will not be vulnerable and weak.  They will be Jewish and strong.  Together, let us continue to write the beautiful story of Etz Chaim. 

With profound gratitude to each of you,

Ken Jacobs, President

 

Thu, September 18 2025 25 Elul 5785