We are starting off the New Year at Eitz Chayim with a few terrific achievements under our belts.  I hope you will be as excited about them as we are, and will come to visit us soon.

First and foremost, after two years of research, we selected the Hillel Machzor, On Wings of Awe, as our prayer book for the High Holy Days.  It is fully transliterated, gender-neutral, traditional in scope, modern in feel, perfect for our community.  We knew we needed a new machzor because our old one didn't speak to us any more.  As we didn't have resources to make it happen, we asked our members to purchase their own books.  People responded with enormous generosity, donating overall more books than were purchased for individual use.  We ended up with enough books for visitors as well, and we hope lots of you will join us for the High Holy Days.  You will find all the information on our website here.

Speaking of our website, we launched our new site on Labor Day.  Check it out here.  In its initial phase, it is simple but easy to use.  Check back frequently as we add content and graphics.

Despite our small size, the hearts of our members are huge.  Our congregation raised $10,000 for materials to build a ramp and work began in the middle of August.  A group of Northeastern architecture students (NU Freedom by Design) provided our design plans and plenty of labor; our members supplied the rest.  Visitors to us at High Holy Days will see a work in progress, close to completion.

We have revamped our Adult Education program to include thought provoking study of biblical texts, terrific speakers, and more media rich presentations.  We have added significant programming to our Hebrew School. 

We really are a home for wondering Jews.  Come see us soon!

---Penina Weinberg, President, Congregation Eitz Chayim