Jewish Congregation News

Joyce Spartonos

It’s hard to believe that another year has come and gone, and 2020 is beginning. Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation ended 2019 with a beautiful Hanukkah Service. Candle-lighting always stirs up wonderful feelings, but there’s something extra special when it comes to Hanukkah! We also welcomed and honored all our new members.

Services this month are Friday, Jan, 10, at 7 p.m. in the Chapel in Sun Lakes. We are blessed with a staff that shines as bright as any star in the heavens: our esteemed Rabbi Irwin Wiener, followed by our Cantor Ronda Polesky, Choir Director Lana Oyer, and Musical Accompanist Shea Marshall. So, as always, it promises to be a rewarding evening.

Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation will be installing its officers at this service, and here’s the rundown: Wendy Feldman will come on board to serve as co-president with Geri Gould. Marilyn Koss is the new membership chair, and Mike Milgroom and Richard Agins have been elected to the board. Marty Silverman has been named board member emeritus. Jeff Spear is remaining as recording secretary and Carol Biales will continue as corresponding secretary. Bety and Michael Dar have both stepped down from the board.

We also want to remind you about the first ecumenical panel presentation discussing Life Cycle Events that will take place on Tuesday, Jan. 28, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Sun Lakes Chapel. This is part of Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation’s Adult Education program. Panelists consist of Mr. Barnaby Lewis, historian at the Huhugham Cultural Center; Minister Carolina Uribe, St. Mary’s Church of Chandler; Ms. Azra Hassain, representing the Islamic Speakers’ Bureau; Dr. M. Zuhdi Jasser, president of the American Islamic Forum for Democracy; Pastor Mitch McDonald, Sun Lakes Community Church, and, of course, our own Rabbi Wiener. This program is open and free to the public; however, donations on the day of the event would be most appreciated.

As we keep saying, we have something for everyone, and our welcome mat is always out. So, why not give us a try and see for yourself what we’re all about.