As a Reform Congregation we treasure the religious and ethical values handed down to us through the ages. Our goal is to interpret, preserve and foster these values cherished in our tradition. We believe in the continual revelation and inspiration of God. At the same time, modern knowledge encourages us to create and accept changes in practices and ideas. Reform Judaism is a living religion that takes the inherited wisdom and practices of Judaism and makes it understandable to all. It is compatible with life in our modern-day society.
Every congregation is special in its own way. At Temple Emanu-El, we believe there are three attributes which best define us a Temple Community. First, we strive to achieve a sense of Mishpacha, the Hebrew word for "family", so that a feeling of warmth and friendliness permeates our Congregation. Second, we accept the challenge of being personally involved in tikkun olam, which means "healing the world." Third, we encourage all Temple members to participate actively in Temple activities, especially those in which they have an interest. These characteristics determine the personality of our Temple.
Religious Education is an important priority at our Temple. We value education as one way to pass on the history, traditions and rituals of Reform Judaism. Our children's religious education focuses on the foundations of Jewish life, while appropriate activities are provided to meet their developmental needs. We offer educational programs to students from Kindergarten through adult. We are very proud of our Nationally Accredited Religious School.
Mission Statement
Temple Emanu-El of West Essex is a Reform Jewish community that brings us together to celebrate our simchas (joys), provides support for other times, and meets our religious, educational, social, and cultural needs. All ages are inspired by our rabbi and cantor to perpetuate Judaism by engaging in lifelong learning, embracing Israel, performing acts of social justice, cherishing the Torah, and worshipping together.
Our diverse community is welcoming to Jews of all backgrounds including interfaith families and Jews-by-Choice. Within our warm and inviting surroundings, Temple Emanu-El encourages meaningful participation and creates a special sense of belonging.
PastPresidents Cheryl Sander MaryAnn Ferber Levine Susan Cartun Michael Tropp Alan Saltzman Charles Lanyard Kenneth Greenberg Heidi Neumann z’’l Mitchell Colen Robert Sharenow Leonard Kagan Richard Wildstein Robert Neuville Phil Lieberman Martin Mills David Lovit Irving Flexner z’’l Louis Barnett z’’l Lu Muhlfelder z’’l Sol Burack Curt Lilienfeld Peter Cooper z’’l Abe Lipsky Elias Gottlieb Hyman Garber Karel Wahler
z’’l - Deceased- May their memory be for a blessing.
As a Reform Congregation we treasure the religious and ethical values handed down to us through the ages. Our goal is to interpret, preserve and foster these values cherished in our tradition. We believe in the continual revelation and inspiration of God. At the same time, modern knowledge encourages us to create and accept changes in practices and ideas. Reform Judaism is a living religion that takes the inherited wisdom and practices of Judaism and makes it understandable to all. It is compatible with life in our modern-day society.
