President's Page

When thinking about this month’s message, Charles Dickens “A Tale of Two Cities” entered the back of my brain, and stayed. It was the best of times, at Bnai Israel. This spring has been a flurry of celebrations. We celebrated Passover and multiple lifecycle events. Our Hebrew School had their end-of-year celebration integrated with a Men’s Club breakfast for all. The teens have been busy with all their activities, both religious and secular. The fact is, there has been so much activity at Bnai Israel that all our committees and auxiliaries are coming together in July to set a calendar for this coming year. The greater Wilmington Jewish Community has also had a strong presence with the Wilmington Jewish Film Festival, Yom Ha’atzmaut Picnic and the UJA luncheon. If you missed out, check the calendar to see upcoming activities that you might be interested in. We welcome everyone to join us, all you need to do is show up.

It has also been the worst of times, with the passing of our beloved board member Jon Alper, the Hamas war, and the rise of antisemitism. Wilmington has not been immune. Wilmington has a strong pro-Palestinian presence urged on by outside instigators. They want a resolution to be passed by the City of Wilmington which condemns Israel and is antisemitic. We cannot be silent. We, as a Jewish people, need to show up and stand strong.

Bnai Israel kicks off the summer with Sisterhood Shabbat, Beach Blanket Shabbat, Shavuot, hosting the Port City Music Festival, and many other learning and engaging events.  After several years of planning to purchase a new Torah, I wired the final payment to Israel today from our Caplan Torah Fund. Our Open Doors committee is looking into ADA-compliant bathrooms in the social hall. The Ritual Committee has started work on the High Holiday Services. The Board of Directors passed a budget for our next fiscal year, beginning July 1, 2024. Although activities will soon seem to slow for the summer, volunteers will continue to work countless hours for the growth of Bnai Israel.

I hope that you will all attend the Semi-annual Congregational Meeting on June 9 where you will hear from our board and our committees, schmooze and nosh. Hear what we have done and what we are planning to do. Perhaps you might find something that piques your interest, or have an idea that you would like to present. We are always looking for new people and fresh ideas to enhance our community.

B’shalom,

Pam Sender