160th Anniversary Commemorative Journal Remarks by Rabbi Linda Henry Goodman
The children in our Religious School are engaging in a remarkable project this very evening, as we celebrate our 160th anniversary as a congregation. They are putting together a time capsule, not to be opened before the 175th anniversary, some fifteen years from now. If we were to contribute to such a time capsule, what would we want to say to a future generation about the time we are living through now? What would we want to communicate to them about the importance of history, and what we can learn from it to build a strong and bright future? My own impressions of this moment in the history of Union Temple of Brooklyn encompass several primary areas.
Over the past decade, we have emphasized our continuing dedication to the pursuit of social justice, a cornerstone of Reform Judaism from its inception. Fairness and compassion, lending a helping hand to those in need, and speaking out against oppression and injustice - these have driven the Movement with which we align ourselves, as they have driven our congregants with commitment and passion.
We are a congregation of diversity. We come from a number of different backgrounds and orientations. Our membership spans the age groups, and we are fully egalitarian and inclusive. It is such diversity that has been celebrated by the Reform Movement, particularly over the past decade, and which undoubtedly will continue to characterize our Movement’s future.
We are a creative and talented collection of intelligent, thoughtful, caring people. We are artistically and musically talented, accomplished in numerous fields of endeavor, intellectually curious and spiritually searching. We hold different points of view regarding theology, economics, and social and political issues. Many of us come together each Shabbat, and for week night and Sunday programs as well, to study and ponder elements of our tradition, as we seek to grow and learn.
Ultimately we come together in the ongoing quest to find meaning in our lives, and to enhance that meaning in the richest way possible. For 160 years, Union Temple has been a magnet for Jews, and many non-Jews as well, who are engaged in that ultimate search. Whether through prayer, study, social action, or simply gathering together as Jews, God willing our congregational family will continue to grow and flourish, so that our people will continue the quest for ultimate meaning and value. When that time capsule is opened in the year 2023, may it inspire those who examine its contents to carry on our tradition with confidence and love. We proudly take our place in the long history of our Congregation, as we entrust our precious heritage to the generations to come. May God bless us, and all those who would enter our doors in peace.
Linda Henry Goodman
